Window Glazing Buyers' Guide
Getting Your Quotation
OK, so you have decided to get quotes for double glazing. It is highly suggested that you get between 2 to 3 estimates before you meet anybody. Take a few minutes, sit down and write down all the questions you would like to ask about double glazing first.
When you meet your window consultant explain, what windows or doors you would like to have replaced. He will note the style of your house and that of your neighbours, show you a portfolio of double glazed window designs and door designs, and discuss with you which designs would be suitable.
The consultant will show you a sample of a double glazed window and tell you about its features, the company, and their guarantees, and how they manufacture. During this time make sure you ask all the questions that you wrote down earlier.
Your consultant will measure your window requirements and give you a written quotation. Please don’t say, that’s a great price where do I sign? It may seem obvious, but don't accept the first price you are quoted. Always ask if that’s their best price. They want your order so negotiate, you will be surprised what you can achieve by having a deal! Try and obtain at least two or three quotations and visit their showrooms.
Make the effort to view other work carried out by the company you are considering, and if this is not practical ask to speak to their customers on the telephone. While these will, no doubt, be “happy customers” you can gain a good idea of how the company installs double glazing.
Questions to Ask Yourself After Completion?
Did the fitters arrive on the correct day and on time?
Did they use dust sheets to protect the carpets and other parts of your home ?
Was the job left clean and tidy?
Were there any problems, if so how quick did it take to rectify them?
Were the fitters pleasant?
Were you asked to check the work before they left?
Most companies will require a deposit with an order. Generally speaking, 10% to 20%, the final amount paid on competition, but only when you are entirely satisfied with the job.
Find out exactly what the guarantee covers. Most double glazing companies guarantee, frames and double glazed sealed units for a minimum of ten years, but it's best to ask a potential company to be specific and get it in writing. You may well be offered an 'insurance backed' guarantee, but these are really just insolvency guarantees and only become effective should the company go into liquidation and not a guarantee against poor workmanship or faulty material.
How long will it take to fit my windows and what about FENSA registered companies?
The average installation time for double glazing is around 1 - 3 days depending on the amount of windows and work required.
Despite that, always ask the company what the lead time is i.e. the time before the installation starts and how long the installations will take to complete. Some companies who are busy may take up to 12 weeks to start which could be a bit annoying if they don’t tell you, and you think it will only be a few weeks.
Also enquire if they are FENSA registered this is the body which governs the specification and installation of double glazing.
