Quick Tips on Buying Double Glazing

·         Always try to use a company that has been reccomended by others.

·         Do a little research  on what you want and be armed with some facts.

·         Two or three quotes is ideal maybe four at the most. If you are obtaining more than this then you are wasting yours and a lot of other people’s time. Someone who asks for lots of quotes is normally looking for cheap. If you really want this, email or fax your sizes to ten companies saying you want the cheapest.

·         Anyone fitting windows/doors in the UK should be Fensa registered and they should be able to give their registration number. If you wish to fit yourself then you would need to contact your local council who after fitting the windows can register the installation. Typically this costs around £120.00. However you need the right advice on safety glass,types of glass/hinges etc so make sure you use a profesional supplier who gives the right advice or it will cost you.

·         A lot of companies use sub contractors to fit their windows and the quality of installation can vary hugely. Ask if the fitters are employed direct and how long have they been fitting windows.

·         There can be a huge difference in prices and an even bigger difference in quality of products and installations.

·         If a company is extremely cheap the reason should be obvious.

·         Local companies may well be able to offer a better after service which is very important. Even the best products can go wrong and with most companies offering a Ten year warranty  you are more likely to get a good response from a local company.                                              Imagine if your door won’t close at 4.00pm and the company are a hundred miles away what do you thing your chances are of having the problem sorted quickly.

·         Having double glazed windows will reduce your heating bills but cannot  be guaranteed to stop condensation.    See www.welshwindows.co.uk/condensation

·         Insurance backed guarantees are a must, however some  insurance backed guarantees some are as much use as a “chocolate fireguard”, So do some research.

·         Installers normally need to ask for a deposit but check if the deposit is guaranteed (see above) Paying by credit card will guarantee your money is safe but many companies do not take cards. Why not agree a deal with your installer that you will pay a percentage  the day he turns up and rest on completion.  Most companies will agree to this.                                      However if everyone decides not to pay a deposit the company may well struggle financially.

·         You and your home should be treated with care and respect and all respectable companies will do this.

·         Remember fitters have feelings to and plenty of hot tea is always welcome. As you normally will have been given a price giving them tea and biscuits wont cost you much and who knows they may well seal along that bath for you.

·         All above written by Cavan who is only a “simple window fitter” and makes no excuse for poor grammer or spelling.