Door And Window Buying Guide

Many people are unsure of the best way to go about buying windows and doors. ‘How can you tell one window from another ? They all seem to be similar but they vary a lot in price’. We have put together a few tips to help you go about buying windows in the right way.

1. Before you see anyone, try to get a clear idea of what you want. Get door brochures and look online or look at similar houses for ideas. Decide on the style of window and the colour you want. This will help you when it come to making comparisons between window companies.
2. Once you start to get quotes, get to know who you are dealing with and take nothing for granted. A national name or an advert on TV is no guarantee of value for money. For example some “hard sell” companies might initially give you a really expensive price and then drop it only if you protest. .. and remember that there is no such thing as buy one get one free or free fitting ! At the other end of the spectrum, a one man band might buy cheap inferior trade frames, work for a small amount per window, but will not be able to FENSA register your windows or give good after sales service. A mid-range local company may give a good overall balance between price, quality and service, but they vary widely in quality, service and reliability. So somehow you need to make a judgment. Certainly, do not ignore your instincts if you think something is wrong.
3. Never make a decision on the day. Many sales people will try to “close” the deal to shut out competitors. Take all the time you need, until you are sure of what you want to do.
4. Ask your friends and family about their experiences, but don’t be overly swayed by their opinion. A company that knows it has been recommended may assume they have it made. Always get price comparisons.
5. Check how long a company has been trading. In itself, this does not guarantee anything. However, the long standing company will have an established level of service and experience in the industry – and hopefully experienced and competent window fitters.
6. Ask for details of satisfied customers. Go and look at their installations. If possible get their opinions.
7. Always make sure you see the windows you are buying, whether as a sample or better still, recently installed. Make sure that what you see is what will be installed. Some companies may have had the same showroom for years, but may now be fitting something different. It is particularly important to see and be satisfied with the quality of the wood effect colours such as rosewood, oak and Irish oak.