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 should ask their friends, family and neighbours whether they have had any experience with a company in the area.
However, it can also be a drawback. One of them is that customers might feel less personal assistance.
1. Reputation
You should select a double-glazing contractor with an excellent reputation. It's a great method to gain new clients and expand your business. Many companies rely on positive reviews and recommendations to grow their business. So, as you do your research, make sure to read the reviews of different businesses and see what their customers have to say about their products and services.
It is crucial to choose a reputable double glazing company that has a variety of window styles and materials. The company should be able to provide reasonable prices, financing options and a hefty guarantee and warranty. You should also consider one that offers a free, no-obligation consultation and quote so you are aware of the price of your project.
Another thing to check is whether the double glazing company has a top-quality installation team. If they have a skilled team, they will be able to install your windows in a proper manner and make sure they fit in your home in a perfect way. Always select a double glazing firm that has trained and skilled installers.
Certain double-glazing companies employ their employees in-house, while others subcontract their installation to local builders. Companies that employ their own employees have better quality control, and are more reliable than those who do not. Therefore, it's best to select a firm like Albany which has its own staff and has a proven track record.
It is also crucial to determine if the company recycles its old frames. Recycling helps reduce waste, and the home improvement industry is more sustainable. Besides, it's the law that your installer should recycle all waste that is produced during the installation process.
2. Experience
One of the best ways to judge an installer's skills is to check their qualifications. There are many accreditation organizations in the fenestration industry that can offer your double glazing installation with a badge or certificate, upon completion. Examples of these include FENSA, Certass and the GGF. Having these accreditations is an excellent indicator of the professionalism and quality of a double glazing installer.
It is important to take into account the length of time that an installer has been operating for. A double glazing company with a long history will have a wealth of experience and knowledge. This gives you confidence that they can install your windows in a safe, secure way and efficiently.
Double glazing installer s typically offer a variety of services available that will satisfy the requirements of homeowners. This could include everything from measuring your windows to providing a quote to fitting frames and glazed units. In some instances, installers may be able to offer customers financing plans for their payments. This is an ideal option for those who wish to enhance their home, but aren't able to pay in the beginning.
A double glazing contractor who is reliable and trustworthy will take their work seriously. They will follow safety precautions and postpone any installations that require them to be outside in the rain. They will also make sure that their work is of the highest quality and will last for years to come. Some installers even follow up with a friendly call after your installation to check that you are satisfied with their work.
3. Insurance
There are numerous insurance options available for window installers and glaziers. Most professional double glazing installers will opt for public liability insurance which covers them in the event that someone is injured as a result of their work or the company they work for is held responsible for damages caused on a construction site. Tradies also prefer to have a tools insurance policy that reimburses them if their equipment is damaged or stolen. Employers liability is a legal requirement for any business with staff and will pay compensation if an employee is injured at work.
FENSA registered installers have their work vetted and endorsed by the government to ensure they meet 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 meets the building regulations.
It is important to check the accreditations and experience of a double glazing installer before choosing them. A reputable double-glazing company is one that has been operating for many years and have testimonials from clients to prove their claims. They must also have a positive relationship with their suppliers and be able to provide reasonable prices.
Double glazing can boost the value of your property and also help you reduce your energy bills. It can also enhance your home's security and reduce the amount of noise pollution. Additionally, double glazing can make your home more attractive to buyers should you decide to sell it in the near future.
If you're a double glazing installer it's worth considering specialising in a particular area of the market to increase the chances of being employed. You might specialise in restoration or historical buildings, residential/buy-to-let or commercial (think offices, shops and hotels). This will help you establish a reputation within your chosen field and set you apart from your competition.
4. Guarantees
Since many years it is a legal requirement that every double-glazing company offers an insurance-backed guarantee. This will protect you in the event that the company you have chosen goes out of business and ensures that your money is secure.
Asking friends, family and neighbors if they've ever worked with a local company is an excellent way to identify reputable double glazing installers. As well as giving you a wider perspective, they will likely be able to provide valuable insights into the level of disruption caused by the installation and if the company stuck to the terms of its quotations.
Find out about the company's accreditations. These can be a good indication of how well-respected they are in the industry. For example, FENSA-registered installers will be able to guarantee that all of their work is compliant with Building Regulations and meets required standards for high-performance.
You can contact the FENSA/CERTASS Ombudsman Scheme if you are not satisfied with the service or clause or condition in your contract. They will act as a neutral mediator to resolve any issues and help you to come to an agreement with the company.
It is essential to know the amount of time the installation is expected to take ahead of time, as it will help you plan and minimize any disruption or inconvenience to your home. The most reliable double glazing installers will provide this information when you request a quote and they should be able to provide an estimate of the time the job will be completed once the project begins.
5. Price
If you're in search of a double glazing company to install new doors, windows or conservatories in your home, it's important to conduct thorough research prior to making any commitment. In the end, you're entrusting them with improving what is likely to be your largest asset. So there are some essential questions to ask any potential service provider.
How long have you been doing business? This is an important question because finding out how long a double glazing company has been in business can help you gauge the quality of their work. In general, businesses that are established for longer will have a greater amount of experience.
It's also worth asking how the installation process will cost. Some installers will pay their fitters per window while others charge a per-day rate. Both have advantages and drawbacks, so figure out which one best suits your requirements.
Last but not least, you should inquire with the installer about their method of disposing of old frames. You should select a company like Albany that recycles its frames. This helps to reduce waste and makes the entire process more environmentally friendly.
In addition, some installers offer a follow-up service that includes a courtesy call a week or so after the installation to assess how you're doing with your new double glazing and to answer any questions you might have. This is a good way to ensure you're satisfied with your new windows, and the installation.
If you're not sure where to begin do not be afraid to ask your family and friends for suggestions. A reputable local plumber, electrician, or builder can be a great source of information on reliable double glazing installers in your local area.