A recent study by Which? has highlighted the big difference between the best and worst-rated double glazing companies.
The study analysed various parts of the sales and installation process, including the quality of products and installation, knowledge of staff, value for money, and customer service.
The results from the survey showed that the independent companies outperformed Anglian, Everest and Safestyle across all areas of both the sales and installation ratings.
The Sash Window Workshop is the leading independent manufacturer and installer of timber windows and doors across London and the South. With the majority of our orders coming from recommendations and repeat business, we place a high importance on providing an excellent product alongside a high level of customer service.
The Which? survey also analysed the average price across the UK for different styles and types of double glazed sash windows. Using these figures to compare them with our own prices highlights how competitive we are within the timber window market.
How to ensure you choose the correct company
Firstly, it is important to remember that price isn’t everything. If something sounds too good to be true, it often is. A cheaper price may mean having to settle for worse customer service or a lower quality product or installation. This can result in spending more in the long run.
Compare multiple companies before deciding which company to go ahead with. Research from Which? highlighted that more than a third of people only obtained one quote before going ahead with the work. If you have not used the company before, we would normally recommend obtaining two or three quotes as only obtaining one quote can leave you vulnerable to being misled on what work is required.
Check that each quote is comparable. Some companies may leave off items such as parking, congestion charge, or ironmongery. If you are not careful, these can be an unwelcome surprise at a later date when they are added on.
Ensure that the company has a landline number and that work is covered by an insurance backed guarantee. This should help protect you if there are any issues at a later date. Having a landline number shows that the company probably employs more than one person, this means that they are less likely to suddenly become unreachable at a future date. By having the work covered by an insurance backed guarantee, you are covered if you have an issue and the company goes into liquidation.
If you are installing complete new windows or doors you will require proof that the work carried out complies with building regulations when you decide to sell your home. If the work is carried out by a FENSA registered company, and the work is eligible for a certificate, you will automatically receive a FENSA certificate confirming this, saving time and money when you decide to sell. Please note that your building is over 18 metres from the ground, FENSA will not issue a certificate. If you live in a property which is over 18 metres high, you will need to contact your local council to arrange for Local Authority Building Inspectors to certify that the windows or doors comply with building regulations.
Visit companies’ showrooms or workshops. This will give you an idea how long the process may take and whether the company has any control over the quality of the product.
Ask to see examples of previous work. If possible, go to see the work rather than just viewing photos. Check independent review websites, such as Trustpilot, before forming your own conclusions. It is also worth comparing the length of guarantee for the materials, paint and workmanship. If the guarantee is short this may signal a lack of confidence by the company regarding the longevity of the product.
To obtain a free, no obligation quotation to replace your timber windows, contact The Sash Window Workshop on:01344 868 668.