How to Choose the Best Double Glazing Installers
If homeowners are searching for double glazing installers, word of mouth is usually the best place to begin. They will ask family members, friends and neighbors if they have had work carried out by a particular company in their area.
However, it can also have its drawbacks. Customers may feel less personal service.
1. Reputation
You should select a double-glazing contractor with a good reputation. It's among the best methods to draw in new customers and make your business grow. Many companies rely on positive reviews and recommendations to increase the size of their business. So, as you do your research, make sure to read the reviews of various businesses and read what other customers have to say about their products and services.
It is essential to select a reliable double-glazing company that provides a variety of window styles and materials. The company should also provide affordable prices and financing options, along with a generous warranty and guarantee. You may also select a company who offers a free, no-obligation consultation and quote so you know the cost of your project.
You should also check if the company you are considering has a team of highly-trained installers. If double glazing installations have a highly skilled staff, they will be able to install your windows properly and ensure that they are a perfect fit for your home perfectly. You should always choose a double-glazing company that has trained and skilled installers.
Some double-glazing firms employ their staff in-house, while others subcontract their work to local builders. In general, businesses that employ their employees in-house enjoy greater control over their quality and are more trustworthy than those that don't. It is recommended to select companies like Albany which employs its employees and has a track record.
It's also important to find out whether the company recycles old frames. This is because recycling helps to reduce waste and makes the home improvement industry more sustainable. Besides, it's the law that your contractor must recycle any waste material that is produced during the installation process.
2. Experience
One of the best ways to judge the skills of an installer is to check their credentials. In the fenestration business, there are several accrediting bodies who will issue your double glazing installer with a badge or a certificate after successful completion of their work. Examples of these include FENSA, Certass and the GGF. These certifications are an excellent indicator of the professionalism and quality of a double-glazing installation.
It is crucial to take into account the length of time that an installer has been in operation for. A double glazing company with a long track record has a wealth of knowledge and expertise. This will allow you to feel confident that they can complete your installation correctly, in a safe and efficient manner.
Double glazing installers provide a range of services that meet the needs and budgets of the majority of homeowners. This could include anything from measuring the dimensions of your windows, and providing a quote to fitting and installing the frames and glazed units. Installers can offer payment plans to their customers in certain instances. This could be a great alternative for those wanting to upgrade their home but do not have the funds to start the process.
A double glazing installer who is reliable and trustworthy will take their work seriously. They will take safety measures and delay any installations that require them to be outside in bad weather. They will also take the time to ensure that the work they do is of the highest standard and will last for many years to come. Some installers will follow up with a friendly call following the installation to check that you are satisfied with their work.
3. Insurance
There are a range of insurance options available to window fitters and glaziers. The majority of professional double glazing installers select public liability insurance that covers them in the case that they are injured on the job or if their company is held liable for any damages that occur on a construction site. Tradies also prefer to have a tool cover which covers them if their tools are damaged or stolen. Employers liability insurance is required by law for any business that employs staff. It is a way to compensate an injured employee.
FENSA registered installers are vetted and endorsed by the government to ensure that they meet building regulations for replacement windows and door standards. This means that homeowners can obtain a certificate from their local authority or through an FENSA registered installer to prove that their new double-glazed installation is compliant with building regulations.
When choosing a double glazing installer it is important to check their accreditations and previous experience. A reputable double glazing company has been in operation for years and should have reviews from customers to back up their claims. They must also have a positive relationship with their suppliers and be prepared to provide reasonable prices.
Double glazing can help you save money on energy bills and increase the value of your home. It can also improve the security of your home and reduce the amount of noise pollution. Additionally, double glazing can make your home more attractive to potential buyers should you decide to sell it in the near future.
You might want to consider the possibility of focusing on a specific market if you are a double-glazing installer. This increases your chances of landing work. You might specialise in restoration or historical buildings, residential/buy-to-let or commercial (think offices, shops and hotels). This will help you establish your name in your chosen industry and make you stand out.
4. Guarantees
It has been an obligation of law for many years now that all double-glazing companies provide an insurance backed guarantee. This protects you in the unlikely scenario that the company you've chosen goes out of business making sure that your money is protected.
The word of mouth is an excellent place to begin when looking for quality double glazing installers. Therefore, it's worthwhile asking your family members and neighbors if they've worked with local businesses in the past. In addition to providing you with a wider perspective they'll be able to give valuable insights into the level of disruption caused by the installation and whether the company adhered to the terms of its quotations.
Ask about the company's accreditations. They can be an excellent indicator of how reputable they are in the field. Installers who are FENSA certified can ensure you that their work is in compliance with Building Regulations, and meets the required standards for high-performance.
You can contact the FENSA/CERTASS Ombudsman Scheme in case you are unhappy with the service or term or condition in your contract. They will act as a neutral mediator to solve any issues and assist you reach an agreement with the company.
It's important to understand the length of time that the installation is expected to take ahead of time, as it will help you plan and minimise any inconvenience or disruption to your home. Reliable double glazing installers will give you this information when you request a quote and they should be able to provide an indication of how long the job is expected to be completed once the project starts.
5. Price
When you're looking for a double glazing company to install new windows, doors or conservatories for your home, it's vital that you research thoroughly before making any commitment. You're entrusting them to improve what's likely to be your largest asset. Here are a few questions you can ask any potential service provider.
How long have you been doing business? This is a very important issue, because knowing how long a company has been in operation can aid in determining the quality of its work. Companies who have been in operation for a longer time will generally be more experienced.
Asking about the cost of installation is also important. Some installers pay their fitters per window while others charge a daily rate. Both methods have advantages and disadvantages, so find out which one suits your requirements.
The last thing to do is you should ask the installer about their method of disposing of old frames. Ideally, you want to choose a double glazing company that recycles their frames, such as Albany. This helps to reduce waste and makes the whole process more sustainable.
Some installers also offer an after-sales service, which includes a complimentary phone call a few weeks after installation to confirm your satisfaction with the new double glazing. They are also able to answer any questions that you might have. This is an excellent way to ensure that you are satisfied with your new windows as well as the installation process.
Selecting the best double glazing company is a vital task, so don't hesitate to ask friends and family for suggestions if you're unsure where to begin. You can also consult a reputable local plumber, electrician or builder could be a great source of information regarding reliable double glazing installers in your local area.