What Should You Consider When Buying New Energy Efficient Windows And Doors?
Anyone who is considering replacing doors or windows in their homes may feel overwhelmed by the process and the various, options, advice and claims made by different companies. So, what should you look out for when researching? How do you know that the claims being made are true, and what are the key things to look out for? Here are some of the key things to check:
Does The Company Have Independent Accreditations And Can They Prove It?
It is always best to check the company’s independent accreditations. For example, the British Fenestration Rating Council (BFRC) are the leading consumer accreditation for energy efficiency testing, so make sure they are part of the scheme.
For security concerns, look for Police-Approved Secured by Design certification. It ensures that the products have been tested to the required standards. Watch out for Made In Great Britain and Which? accreditations too; they validate a company’s finances every year and are a good indication that they’re trustworthy. It’s also worth checking that the company is fully verified on each site by checking online.
Has The Company Won Any National Awards?
Being recognised by their peers is a reassuring sign that a company is above board, so try finding out if they’ve won any industry-specific awards like the G-Awards, which rewards excellence in the glass and glazing industry. These are independent awards where companies go through rigorous testing for manufacturing and installation. Being a winner or finalist demonstrates that a company is at the top of their game and worth investing in.
Do They Manufacture Their Own Products As Well As Install Them?
It is incredibly beneficial for the consumer if the company both manufactures and installs its own products. This ensures that there is only one company responsible for the whole process. So should anything go wrong the responsibility lies with one party, and the blame cannot be passed, which unfortunately happens all too often in the glazing industry.
Does The Company Employ Its Own Installers?
If the answer is ‘no’ and the company relies on sub-contractors, who will likely be paid per frame, then look for alternatives. A company which employs its own team of installers will work on getting it right the first time, rather than cutting corners but trying to install as quickly as possible.
Can You View The Products Before Making A Decision?
For most companies, a design consultant may visit your home, but before you commit to a purchase, can you view the windows or doors in question? Having a detailed demonstration of the product before you buy will allow you to understand what you are purchasing. It’s even better if the company has a showroom, as it’s a great way of seeing more variety, comparing different styles, options and colours so you make the right decision to suit your property. Brochures and online demonstrations are great, but you can’t beat seeing things in person.
How Long Has The Company Been Trading?
There are companies that have a habit of closing and opening again, and again, so it makes sense to use one with a trusted reputation built up over decades of uninterrupted trading. Check online to see how long a company has been trading for and ask for testimonials from previous clients. There will be exceptions of course; every company has to start somewhere and there are plenty of well-meaning new businesses out there, but if you discover that the same people have traded under different names before, it’s worth looking elsewhere.
What Guarantees And Finance Options Do They Offer?
A well-established company will offer an unconditional 10-year guarantee, so check that everything is covered within it. Also check if they offer a range of finance options such as interest-free, or low deposits for up to ten years. The most secure companies will be regulated by the FCA (financial conduct authority) and will able to offer the maximum Home Improvement loan value of £50,000 and this alone demonstrates their financial stability.
Buying windows can be a bit of a minefield, that’s why you should always do your research and ask an expert. Award-winning T&K Home Improvements have had 44 years in the industry manufacturing and installing windows, doors and living spaces for over 60,000 satisfied customers.
To find out more, why not contact us or call 0800 622 716? Alternatively, you could book a showroom appointment and see everything first hand. We can’t wait to hear from you.
