Crittall forges new partnership with Secco Sistemi

Building Products Index Ltd Doors, Steel, Steel doors, Windows Leave a Comment

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Crittall Windows has announced a new strategic collaboration with Secco Sistemi, the renowned Italian manufacturer of high-performance steel windows and doors systems. The partnership represents a further commitment by Crittall to expand its product portfolio and maintain its leadership in the premium market segment.

This new relationship will see Crittall working alongside Secco Sistemi and Barclay Mathieson Architectural (BMA), the sole importer of Secco systems into the United Kingdom. Through this collaboration, Crittall will fabricate Secco’s thermally broken steel systems for both the UK and North American markets. The partnership builds on shared values of quality, innovation and technical excellence.

Secco Sistemi, based near Venice, has been a driving force in steel window and door innovation since its founding in 1947 by Aldo Secco. Known for its use of architectural metals such as brass, corten steel, stainless steel and galvanised steel, the company has consistently produced award-winning systems that combine technical performance with refined aesthetics. Its products have been specified in landmark projects across Europe and beyond, including the James Simon Galerie in Berlin by David Chipperfield Architects.

With more than seven decades of experience, Secco has evolved from its industrial origins to become a highly regarded partner to contemporary architects. Crittall will source Secco profiles and accessories through BMA, ensuring full control over specification and supply. The partnership enables Crittall to bring Secco systems to market with the same attention to detail and project-led service that has defined the Essex-based company for 175 years.

Crittall’s decision to invest in this new product line reflects the business’s long-term strategy of growth through innovation. It complements its in-house range by offering new solutions for high-end residential and commercial projects where thermal performance, material quality and design integrity are essential.

Russell Ager, Crittall Windows’ MD, said: “This partnership allows us to offer a broader range of high-performance steel solutions while staying true to the principles that define Crittall: precision, quality and a clear understanding of architectural intent. It reflects our commitment to evolve with our clients’ needs and to bring new, design-led systems to market without compromise.”

Further details about the new Secco ranges available through Crittall will be shared in the coming months. For now, the announcement marks the start of a collaborative venture between three companies with a shared commitment to excellence in steel fenestration.

www.crittall-windows.co.uk

Eurobrick’s A-Clad: The complete non-combustible brick slip rainscreen system

Building Products Index Ltd Brick slip cladding, Cladding Leave a Comment

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Eurobrick Systems, pioneers of brick slip cladding in the UK since 1990, has launched A-Clad, a fully fire-tested, A1-rated non-combustible rainscreen system, developed specifically to meet the latest regulatory requirements for high-rise and high-risk buildings.

As changes to Building Regulations have driven demand for safer cladding solutions, Eurobrick has responded by developing a system that combines compliance with versatility and buildability. A-Clad is suitable for use on buildings of any height and has undergone rigorous fire and mechanical testing.

“A-Clad has been developed to give specifiers peace of mind,” says Richard Haines, Director of Eurobrick. “It’s the complete system that has been tested, comprehensively tested actually, to ensure safety and performance. This complete system testing sets A-Clad apart.”

A complete system backed by technical expertise

Eurobrick’s in-house estimating and technical team brings over four decades of experience in cladding systems, offering:

  • Detail reviews to identify practical or cost-efficiency issues early
  • Comprehensive take-offs and estimates
  • Technical guidance throughout the design and build process
  • Approved installers to ensure accurate installation, or…
  • Installer training – with dedicated A-Clad sessions

This level of support is often critical in avoiding unnecessary on-site delays or costly design revisions. Eurobrick’s proactive approach during specification and pre-construction stages is designed to help contractors and architects deliver on time and within budget.

Built for a range of applications

A-Clad extends Eurobrick’s product range to offer systems suitable for all application – internal, external, rainscreen, retrofit, and new build. The system is designed to accommodate a wide range of project specifications while maintaining a focus on safety and performance.

Technical documentation & training

The full A-Clad system specification, technical literature, installation instructions, and training details are available on the Eurobrick website – www.eurobrick.co.uk. Training is a prerequisite for installing A-Clad, and sessions can be booked directly through Eurobrick’s technical team by emailing info@eurobrick.co.uk. If you would like to find out more, please get in touch with Eurobrick, as they would love to help.

Vertu BMW Exeter – Superior Rendering with ProBead and ProWall Systems

Building Products Index Ltd Render Leave a Comment

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Vertu BMW Exeter, a prominent car dealership, undertook a major rendering project to enhance the aesthetic and thermal properties of the external aspects of their showroom. McCarthy Contractors spearheaded the application, utilising SAS Render Systems flagship products ProRend, ProBead and ProWall to achieve a seamless and durable finish.

Project Requirements

The project had specific requirements to ensure a high-quality and long-lasting result:

  • Repair Section: 100mm EPS insulation system affixed back to the steel frame on the main roadside.
  • Front Façade: ProWall system affixed to aluminium top hat sections.
  • Final Finish: ProRend Colourtex thin coat finish matching the existing colour, RAL 9001.
  • Comprehensive Involvement: Involvement throughout the project for all aspects of the project.

 Solution

  1. 100mm EPS Insulation System

For the repair section at the main roadside, a 100mm premium EPS insulation system was installed. This system was affixed back to the steel frame, ensuring improved thermal performance.

  1. ProWall System

For the front façade, the ProWall system was chosen for its outstanding performance and longevity. The system was affixed to aluminium top hat sections, providing a robust and durable solution that seamlessly integrated with the existing structure.

  • Long-Term Durability: The ProWall system comes with a 60-year BBA certificate, guaranteeing its durability.
  • Fire Performance: Delivers first-class performance concerning fire resistance, ensuring safety and compliance with regulations.
  • Strength and Stability: Provides exceptional strength and stability, maintaining its structural integrity over time.
  • Weather Tightness: Effectively protects the building from the elements, ensuring longevity and minimal maintenance.
  • Healthy Air Quality: The rendered rainscreen cladding maintains healthy air quality by allowing the building to breathe while protecting it from the elements.
  1. Colourtex Finish

The final finish was crucial for maintaining the dealership’s aesthetic consistency. ProRend Colourtex, a premium factory-batched proprietary silicone resin thin-coat render, was selected for its high water resistance and low maintenance requirements. This finish was applied over a ProRend coloured primer and perfectly matched the existing RAL 9001 colour.

More on ProRend Colourtex silicone thin coat render:

  • Customisation: Available in 30 standard colours or as in this case study, custom tints, ensuring a perfect match for any project.
  • Durability: Guaranteed for 10 years, this render offers a long-lasting solution.
  • Textured Finishes: Available in two textured finishes, Uniform and Grained, providing flexibility in design aesthetics.
  1. Comprehensive Design Support

From the initial stages to the end result, Vertu BMW Exeter received comprehensive support, including CAD details and specifications. This collaboration ensured that every aspect of the rendering project was meticulously planned and executed.

 Key Features and Benefits

Eco-Friendly: The use of ProBead render beads, made from 100% recycled PVCu and fully recyclable, ensured a sharp and durable finish, guaranteed to last the test of time, with an official 25-year guarantee. ProBead is the market-leading choice for render bead, a high-quality bead manufactured in the UK.

Durability: SAS Render Systems products are engineered for long-lasting performance, ensuring the rendered surfaces remain crack-free and withstand environmental challenges.

Aesthetic Consistency: The ProRend Colourtex finish in RAL 9001 provided a seamless match with the existing structure, enhancing the overall visual appeal.

Unrivalled Technical Support: The involvement from the design stages, including detailed CAD specifications, support and guidance throughout the entire project, ensured precise implementation and a high-quality result.

Results

By choosing SAS Render Systems, Vertu BMW Exeter achieved:

  • Enhanced Aesthetic Appeal: The BMW showroom now boasts a clean, professional finish that significantly improves its visual impact.
  • Improved Thermal Performance: The 100mm EPS insulation system enhances energy efficiency.
  • Increased Durability: The rendered surfaces are robust and resistant to environmental wear and tear.
  • Sustainability: The use of eco-friendly materials underscores the dealership’s commitment to environmental responsibility.

 Conclusion

The rendering project at Vertu BMW Exeter, executed excellently by McCarthy Contractors using ProRend, ProBead and ProWall systems, resulted in a facility that not only looks revamped but also stands up to the test of time. The dealership now features a fresh new look, improved thermal performance, and a consistent aesthetic appeal, showcasing the exceptional performance of SAS Render Systems products and thus reflecting the premium nature of the BMW brand.

For support with your render renovation project, our friendly Technical Team are here to walk you through every step. Call us today on 01647 24620 or email info@sas-europe.com

BLÜCHER® LINEA for Outdoor Applications

Building Products Index Ltd Drainage, Surface water drainage Leave a Comment

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From bustling shopping centres and busy transport hubs to large-scale stadiums, outdoor public spaces demand drainage solutions that are not only effective — but built to last. That’s why we’re excited to introduce BLÜCHER® LINEA: our latest modular channel system, engineered to meet the demands of high-traffic, high-performance environments.

Designed with public infrastructure in mind, BLÜCHER® LINEA combines durability, flexibility, and clean aesthetics in a system that handles surface water with ease, even under heavy footfall and unpredictable weather conditions.

Why BLÜCHER® LINEA is ideal for outdoor environments:

  • Modular design – Configure channel lengths, grating styles, and outlet positions to suit any layout, whether retrofitting or new build.
  • Heavy-duty stainless steel – Resists corrosion, wear, and weather, even in exposed or coastal areas.
  • Slip-resistant grating options – Prioritise public safety without compromising on appearance.
  • High flow capacity – Designed to manage sudden downpours and reduce surface water buildup.
  • Minimal maintenance – Smooth internal surfaces help prevent debris build-up and blockages, reducing long-term upkeep.

Whether it’s installed along concourses, entranceways, pedestrian zones or platforms, BLÜCHER® LINEA offers a low-profile yet high-impact solution that blends effortlessly into modern architectural designs — while standing up to the footfall of public use.

With fast installation, bespoke options available, and trusted BLÜCHER stainless steel performance, BLÜCHER® Linea is a smart choice for architects, engineers, and contractors seeking reliability in every detail.

Ready to future-proof your next public project?

Explore the range and technical specifications at:
www.blucher.co.uk/linea

Heritage Cast Aluminium from Alumasc repeats history at Stamford Courtyard

Building Products Index Ltd gutters Leave a Comment

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A Heritage Cast Aluminium rainwater system from Alumasc Water Management Solutions (AWMS), has been chosen for use on the redevelopment of a historic site in the Stourbridge village of Enville. Stamford Courtyard sits in the heart of the village, and required a system that would not only meet performance requirements, but also remain in keeping with original elements of the unique site.

The Stamford Courtyard development was delivered by main contractor Martin Evans Construction for the Enville and Stalybridge Estate, and comprises residential and office space in a beautiful courtyard setting. The site dates back to the 1800s; once home to the Stamford Arms Hotel and its outbuildings, which included a bakery, brewhouse, staff cottage and coachhouse/stable block. Built by the Earl of Stamford in 1857, the hotel accommodated visitors to the gardens at Enville Hall. Whilst the hotel was demolished in 1950, three of its outbuildings have been preserved and refurbished into charming residences, alongside three newbuild residential properties and an office suite.

Martin Evans Construction had used the Heritage Cast Aluminium range on previous projects for the Enville and Stalybridge Estate. Their experience of the system’s installation, aesthetics and performance led to specification for Stamford Courtyard, over alternative plastic systems that had failed meet design requirements.

The Heritage system offers a comprehensive range of traditional gutter profiles, with half-round, square or rectangular pipes. Following a full site survey by AWMS, Squares were supplied for the rooflines of all the buildings at Stamford Courtyard, and installed by Martin Evans Construction.

Heritage has been designed to provide all the essential architectural features appropriate to traditionally designed buildings, whilst being fully in tune with modern fast-track building contracts. It can be finished with BBA certificated powder coatings in a choice of colours, or as is the case with Stamford Courtyard, can offer a textured finish in black, to replicate the cast iron that would have been used on the original buildings.

The Heritage system is manufactured in the UK in accordance with BS EN 8530 (formerly BS 2997) and boasts a life expectancy of 40 years in rural/suburban areas and up to 25 years in industrial/marine areas. It is durable and non-corrodible, and its inherent light weight makes it easy to transport, handle and fix.

Aluminium is 100% recyclable.

AWMS: Leading the way in sustainable drainage

The AWMS ‘Concept to Completion’ process is underpinned by a solid company infrastructure which offers the following:

  • UK-based manufacturing facilities and foundry
  • national brand-specific sales team and regional support network
  • in-house technical team
  • design team to fulfil bespoke design requirements
  • rainwater and drainage calculations and on-site surveys
  • take off and estimations
  • in-house, BBA approved powder coating facilities
  • unrivalled dedicated UK technical and after-sales support

Alumasc Rainwater Gutters & Downpipes sits under the AWMS umbrella, as one of five brands well known for innovation, quality and longevity. The four accompanying brands are: Skyline Architectural Aluminium,
Harmer Building Drainage; Wade Building Drainage; and Gatic Civil Drainage & Access Covers.

Our extensive product portfolio ensures sustainable rainwater and drainage solutions that set the standard for urban water management.

Alumasc Water Management Solutions is part of the Alumasc Group. The Group proudly holds the London Stock Exchange Green Economy Mark, which is awarded to companies generating 50% or more of their total annual revenues from products and services that contribute to the global green economy.

For more information call 01536 383810 or visit www.alumascwms.co.uk/brands/rainwater

External Enclosures & Outdoor Cabinets

Building Products Index Ltd Steel Cabinets Leave a Comment

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Glasdon UK Limited specialise in the design and manufacture of bespoke and standard size GRP enclosures, steel cabinets and steel enclosures for a wide range of industrial and commercial applications. From compact outdoor electrical enclosure cabinets to large walk in enclosures, we can deliver each unit fully pre-assembled for efficient install.

The Element™ GRP Housing Range is a cost-effective enclosure for securely housing a wide variety of industrial equipment. Element GRP Housing combines robust, weather and vandal resistant GRP panels and roof with a range of options to offer optimum flexibility for your application. Available in 10 standard sizes.

Element™ GRP Housing incorporates modular panels which allows for modification and relocation in the future.

Further customisation of the Element building is available with a choice of optional fittings. A vent or gland plate extends Element’s usage opportunities and a wide range of locking systems provide extra security and peace of mind for housing sensitive equipment.

Element’s GRP panels feature a semi-gloss, light grey outer laminate, which is easy to maintain throughout its long service life.

Delivered fully assembled and ready for anchoring into position with self-tapping masonry bolts, Element offers optimum flexibility for your application.

For more details, visit the website www.glasdon.com or email enquiries@glasdon-uk.co.uk

One Every Minute: The Retrofit Rate Needed to Hit Net Zero by 2050

Building Products Index Ltd Doors, PVC-U, PVC-U, Windows Leave a Comment

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A new industry report commissioned by Eurocell has revealed a stark reality: England must retrofit one home every minute between now and 2050 to meet its national net zero commitments.

The independent research, conducted in partnership with Cicero/amo, explores how prepared the construction industry is to deliver energy-related upgrades across England’s 23 million existing homes. The conclusion? We’re falling short – and time is running out.

Key findings include:

  • Over 19 million homes require energy-efficiency upgrades by 2050
  • Just 4.2% of homes currently meet EPC Band C or above
  • More than 50% of homes were built before 1980 – long before energy performance was a design priority
  • Retrofitting must scale up by over 12 times the current rate to hit 2050 targets

These figures highlight the urgent need for high-performing, sustainable, and scalable retrofit solutions- particularly across social housing and ageing private stock.

Be Retrofit Ready with Eurocell

Eurocell’s Logik 70mm casement window system is engineered to meet the demands of energy-efficient retrofitting.

Logik System Highlights:

  • Exceeds Part L requirements – Achieves U-values as low as 1.2 W/m²K
  • Improves EPC ratings – Can help properties upgrade from Band D to Band C
  • Multi-chambered profile enhances insulation and reduces heating costs
  • Integrated trickle vents improve air quality and support compliance with Approved Document F
  • Sustainable by design – 100% of removed PVC-U frames are recycled
  • UK-manufactured, reducing transport-related emissions

Advanced Sustainability Through Design

Logik profiles feature over 40% post-consumer recycled PVC-U as standard. Using Dual Material Extrusion Technology (DMET), Logik combines recycled core material with a virgin outer layer – delivering performance and sustainability without compromising aesthetics. The recycled material is completely invisible in the finished product, making it ideal for refurbishment projects where appearance and compliance matter.

Carbon Footprint Reduction Backed by Research

To further substantiate the sustainability credentials of PVC-U product solutions, Eurocell worked with the Faculty of Science and Engineering at Manchester Metropolitan University to review an array of data sets and modelling emanating from peer-reviewed publications. This would establish a life cycle assessment of the use of recycled PVC-U in the company’s manufacturing operations.

Eurocell requested the scientists interrogate the set estimates for overall CO2 savings that can be achieved from the use of waste PVC-U and determine an accurate statistic to prove the environmental benefit of using waste PVC-U within recycling operations.

  • Replacing one tonne of virgin PVC with recycled PVC can reduce CO₂ emissions by approximately 1.7 tonnes
  • Using one tonne of post-consumer PVC-U saves up to 2.056 tonnes of CO₂ equivalent – roughly two months’ worth of emissions from the average UK resident

This reinforces the value of circular manufacturing in reducing the carbon footprint of retrofit projects at scale.

Read the full research report:
eurocell.co.uk/blog/one-every-minute-the-rate-homes-in-england-need-energy-related-upgrades-to-meet-2050-net-zero-target

Partner with Eurocell to retrofit better. Build smarter. And help close the gap – one home at a time.

For more information on how Eurocell can assist you in delivering your next project, please contact the team commercialsales.profiles@eurocell.co.uk.

 

NAYLOR EXPANDS POWER SECTOR OFFERING

Building Products Index Ltd Ducting Leave a Comment

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Following the expansion of its ducting range with the launch of PVC Class 1 and Class 2 Duct products, Naylor has launched ‘Naylor Power’ – a dedicated division formed to serve the evolving needs of the UK power, data, fibre and telecoms markets with a comprehensive product portfolio and specialist support.

The launch of Naylor Power underlines the company’s commitment to supporting the UK’s growing energy and infrastructure sectors.  It will be led by Product Sales Manager, John Grindrod and Business Development Manager for Power Infrastructure, Beth Whitford, who have extensive industry knowledge and can provide guidance and support to project stakeholders.

Naylor’s recent investment in enhanced production capability enables Naylor Power to provide an expanding range of ducting solutions including PVC Class 1 & Class 2 ducting; Twin Wall Ducting (Class 1, Class 2, and Class 3), and Smooth PE Class 3 Ducting for data, fibre optic and telecoms applications.

Its most recently launched PVC Class 1 and Class 2 duct range which are manufactured in accordance with the Energy Network Association Technical Specification 12-24 – ENATS 12-24 and, for Class 1 duct, BS EN 61386-24.

Offering the advantages of a lightweight flexible product combined with high strength and durability, both systems are designed for use in high voltage power networks including hydro, wind farms and solar farms.  They are also suitable for use in electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure.

Available in red as standard and black upon request, Naylor uPVC Class 1 duct comes in sizes 110mm and 160mm (OD) and can be supplied in three and six metre lengths as standard.

Naylor uPVC Class 2 duct is available in sizes 38mm, 96.5mm, 110mm and 160mm (OD) and can be supplied in three and six metre lengths.  It is available in both red and black as standard with additional colours available on request.

Both uPVC Class 1 and Class 2 ducting ranges also include a wide choice of bends, couplings, end caps and access chambers.

Naylor’s dedicated in-house technical team is also able to provide a full suite of support services including technical drawings, project take-offs, specification assistance and value engineering.

For more information, contact John Grindrod by emailing john.grindrod@naylor.co.uk or calling  07831 192606.

Have you seen the new colour chart for Clement’s steel windows and doors?

Building Products Index Ltd Doors, Steel, Steel doors, Windows Leave a Comment

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The team at Clement always talks about how many different colours are available for their bespoke steel windows and doors, but did you know you can now view these in the company’s new RAL Colour Chart?

Black steel doors and windows are still a popular look, but the colour options for standard polyester powder paint in a semi gloss or matt finish at Clement are numerous.  There is also a huge range of non-standard colours, available at an extra cost.

Clement offers a dual colour finish too, where you can choose to paint the window frames different colours internally and externally.  There are complementary silicone colours and specialist metallic effect finishes are also available – speak to a sales advisor for more information.

The company uses the fabulous powder paint colours by Akzo Nobel, who are renowned global leaders in advanced performance surface coatings.  Akzo Nobel paints are highly durable and Clement’s factory specialists bake the paint on at a high temperature to give a superb finish.

Generally offered with a warranty of ten years, polyester powder coated steel windows and doors by Clement provide an average paint coating in excess of 100 microns, when the industry standard is 60 microns.  Clement’s hot dip galvanised, polyester powder coated steel frames require minimal maintenance and last for many years.

Several customers have opted for unusual colour schemes – the team at Clement has manufactured blue windows, red door screens and yellow doors in recent years!

Looking for a new colour scheme?  Contact Clement Windows Group today for more information:

Tel:     01428 643393

Email:  info@clementwg.co.uk

Web:   www.clementwindows.co.uk

Value Engineering – Waterproofing

Building Products Index Ltd Waterproof Membranes, waterproofing Leave a Comment

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Value engineering is a method to deliver essential project functions at the lowest cost. It substitutes materials and methods with cheaper alternatives without losing functionality. Focused on functions rather than physical attributes, value engineering is also known as value analysis.

Value engineering reviews products in the design phase to cut costs and boost functionality, enhancing product value. It aims to produce items cost-effectively without compromising their purpose. The concept of Value Engineering began at General Electric Co. during World War II.  During the war, there were shortages of skilled labour, raw materials, and component parts. Lawrence Miles and Harry Erlicher at G.E. sought suitable substitutes.

Aligning Value Engineering with Structural Waterproofing

Messrs Miles Erlicher defined product value as the ratio of function to cost. Function is the work an item is designed to perform, and cost covers its life cycle expenses. Increasing product value involves enhancing function or reducing cost. Value engineering includes analysing costs related to production, design, maintenance, and replacement.

Product value        =           Function

                                            _________

                                                  Cost

Waterproofing requires a tailored design approach, as there is no one-size-fits-all solution.  So, to achieve value engineering in structural waterproofing, consideration should be given to product, product performance characteristics, installation, future maintenance and worst-case scenario, refitting flawed or failed systems.

Waterproofing is vital for maintaining the integrity and value of a structure. Poor workmanship, wrong materials, lack of preparation, or missed details during installation can cause failed waterproofing systems, leading to water damage and expensive repairs.  Addressing waterproofing issues early ensures a structure stays in great condition. Although waterproofing costs only 2-5% of a building’s total expense, to rectify failed or flawed waterproofing, can account to nearly 80% of all construction-related problems.

Effective structural waterproofing relies on precise product selection and proper installation methods from the start.

Waterproofing Design

Waterproofing design is essential in construction, employing various methods and materials to prevent water ingress. Effective waterproofing design enhances building longevity and safeguards structures against water damage.

Three key stages to successful waterproofing: design, specification, and installation.

The waterproofing designer will assess “value” and incorporate this into their design.  Not all waterproofing products/materials are equal.  Different products offer varied qualities and features, so it’s important to choose the right one for the project.

A Waterproofing Design Specialist must know various waterproofing systems and BS 8102:2022. They should understand water sources, their interaction with structures, and soil flow. Structural principles and geotechnical knowledge are essential for working with engineers and interpreting soil reports.

Delta Technical Team

Delta’s Technical Team can help you find value engineering solutions for your waterproofing project.  For all your project requirements, Delta’s Technical Team is a dependable resource. Offering expert advice, comprehensive support, and timely practical assistance, we cater to your specific needs. Contact us today to optimise your project’s performance and cost efficiency.    Tel: 01992 523 523 or drop us an email at info@deltamembranes.com.