How to Choose the Best Double Glazing Installers
If homeowners are searching for double glazing installers referrals from friends and family are typically the best way to start. They can ask their friends, family members and neighbours if they've completed work by a company within their area.
However, this can have its drawbacks. Customers may experience less personal service.
1. Reputation
You must select a double-glazing contractor with an excellent reputation. It's a great way to gain new clients and increase the size of your business. Many companies rely on positive reviews and recommendations to grow their business. When you are doing your research, make sure you check the reviews of different businesses and see what others have had to say about their services.
It is essential to select a reliable double glazing company that has a variety of window designs and materials. The company should also offer affordable prices and financing options, along with a generous warranty and guarantee. You can also choose an organization that provides no-cost, no-obligation consultation and quote so you are aware of the price of your project.
Another thing that you need to check is whether the double glazing company has a top-quality installation team. If they have a highly skilled staff, they'll be able to install your windows in a professional manner and ensure that they fit your home perfectly. Therefore, you should consider a double-glazing service with experienced and qualified installers.
Some double-glazing companies employ their staff in-house, while others subcontract their work to local builders. In general, those who employ their employees in-house enjoy greater control over their quality and are more reliable than those who don't. Therefore, it's best to choose a company like Albany which has its own staff and has a good track record.
It's important to ask whether the company recycles old frames. Recycling reduces waste and makes the home improvement industry more sustainable. Additionally, it's a requirement that your contractor must recycle any waste material that is generated during your installation process.
2. Experience
The credentials of an installer is a good way to evaluate their expertise. In the field of fenestration, there are several accrediting bodies who will issue your double glazing installer with a badge or certificate after successful completion of their work. FENSA Certass, and the GGF are two examples. These certifications are an excellent indicator of the professionalism and high-quality of a double-glazing installation.
When selecting an installer, it is important to look at how long they have been in business. A double glazing company with a long track record will have a wealth of knowledge and experience. This gives you confidence that they can install your windows in a safe, secure way, and efficiently.
Double glazing installers will usually provide a variety of services available that will meet the needs of most homeowners. This includes everything from measuring your windows, to providing an estimate to fitting frames and glazed unit. Installers can offer payment plans to their clients in some cases. This could be a great alternative for those wanting to improve their home but don't currently have the cash upfront.
A reputable and trustworthy double glazing installer will take their job incredibly seriously. They will have safety measures in place and would be likely to delay any installation that requires them working outdoors in bad weather. They will also make sure that the work they do is of the highest quality and will last for many years to be. Some installers will even contact you to follow up following the installation to make sure that you are happy with their work.
3. Insurance
There are many options of insurance for glaziers and window installers. Most professional double-glazing installers choose to take out public liability coverage that covers them in the event that they get injured on the job or their company is held responsible for damages caused at a construction site. Tools insurance is also popular with tradies and will reimburse you in the event that your tools are damaged or stolen. Employers liability insurance is required by law for any firm that employs staff. It is a way to compensate the injured employee.
FENSA registered installers have their work vetted and approved by the government to ensure that they are in compliance with the building regulations for replacement windows and door standards. This means that homeowners can obtain a certificate through their local authority, or an FENSA-registered installer, to ensure that their double glazing is compliant with building regulations.
It is important to check the credentials and experience of a double-glazing installer before selecting them. A reputable double glazing company has been operating for many years and have testimonials from clients to back up their assertions. They should also be able to maintain a good relationship with their suppliers and provide affordable prices.
Double glazing can help you save money on energy bills, and can improve the value of your home. It can also reduce the noise level and increase security for your home. 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 choosing a niche market if you are a double-glazing installer. This will increase 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 to build your reputation in your chosen field and distinguish you from the competition.
4. Guarantees
It has been an obligation of law for many years now that all double glazing businesses provide an 'insurance backed guarantee'. This protects you in the unlikely scenario that the company you have chosen ceases to exist making sure that your money is secure.
Asking family members, friends and neighbors if they've ever used a local company is an excellent way to identify reliable double glazing installers. In addition to offering an overview they'll be able to give useful information about the degree of disruption caused by the installation and whether the company abided by the specifications.
You should also inquire about the company's accreditations, as these can be an indication of how highly regarded it is within the industry. For instance, installers who are registered with FENSA will be able to guarantee that all of their work is in compliance with Building Regulations and meets required standards for high performance.
You can contact the FENSA/CERTASS Ombudsman Scheme in case you are not happy with the service or term or condition in your contract. They'll serve as neutral mediators to resolve any issues and help you reach an agreement with the company.
It is crucial to know what time the installation will take before it begins. This will allow you to prepare for the installation and minimize interruptions or inconveniences to your home. This information will be provided by a reputable double glazing installer when you request an estimate. They should also have an idea of the length they expect the work to take when it is started.
5. Price
It is crucial to conduct thorough research prior to committing to double-glazing services for the installation of new windows, conservatories, or doors to your home. You're trusting them to enhance what's likely to be your most valuable asset. Therefore here are some important questions you should ask any potential provider.
First of all, how long have you been in business? This is an important query because finding out how long a double glazing firm has been in operation can help you judge the quality of their work. Companies who have been in operation for a longer period of time are usually more experienced.
The cost of installation is also important. Some installers will pay their fitters per window, while others charge a daily rate. Both methods have advantages and drawbacks, so figure out which one suits your needs.
Finally, you should find out how the installer disposes of old frames. In the ideal scenario, you should choose a double glazing business which recycles their frames, like Albany. This reduces waste and makes the whole process more sustainable.
Some installers also offer a follow up service that includes a complimentary phone call within a few weeks after installation to verify your satisfaction with the new double-glazed windows. They are also able to answer any questions you might have. This is a great way to ensure you're happy with your new windows and the installation process.
The selection of the right double glazing company is a crucial task, so don't hesitate to ask your friends and family for recommendations if you're not sure where to begin. A reputable local plumber, electrician or builder can be a good source of information regarding reliable double glazing businesses in your local area.