Window and Glazing Professionals

What can specialist window companies, glaziers or window fitters do for me?

Specialist window companies and fitters can diagnose problems and prescribe a choice of remedies, while keeping in mind factors such as the style of your property, ease of operation, budget, noise reduction, thermal efficiency (the lower the U-value, the better), durability and maintenance. It is a balancing act that only a glaziers can deftly strike. Most window companies will be able to take care of both supplying and fitting your new or replacement windows, but if you have already purchased your windows from a window manufacturers then you can find a fitter to just take care of the installation.

What type of window company should I hire?

Like most professions, window companies and fitters often have specialisms. The glaziers you choose should reflect the types of new and replacement windows you are seeking, for example:

• uPVC or PVCu window manufacturers will be able to assist in upgrading your windows with the latest technology. uPVC offers a cheap, energy efficient and low maintenance option.
  
• A period window specialist will have particular expertise in how to deal with period windows. For example, you may be living in a Georgian property with original sash windows that have seen better days. They need draught proofing, the window frames are showing signs of rot, the sash mechanisms aren’t working smoothly and the budget is tight. A sash window refurbishment specialist, together with his team of glaziers and joiners, can reinvigorate your period windows, help install secondary glazing, or provide authentic replacement windows.
  
• If you are looking to add windows to your roof as part of a loft conversion then you should look for window companies with knowledge of roof windows or Velux windows. They will help you select the correct number of roof windows to maximise the light in your attic space whilst maintaining affordability.
  

Where can I find the best choice of window manufacturers and window installers?

Right here on Houzz. Look for Windows & Double Glazing professionals in the Find a Pro category and then save images of window styles you love in an Ideabook. Take time to look through each window company’s profile and get a sense of where their strengths and specialisms lie. Make sure your window manufacturers’ work comes with accreditation: whether from FENSA (Fenestration Self-Assessment Scheme), FMB (Federation of Master Builders) or TrustMark.

Important questions to ask glaziers, window companies and manufacturers:

• Are you registered with FENSA and a member of a trade organisation such as the FMB?
  
• How long have you been manufacturing and/or installing windows?
  
• If you just install, which window manufacturers do you tend to work with?
  
• Do you provide replacement windows for period properties?
  
• What styles do you specialise in?
  
• Where can I read references from previous clients?
  
• What level of service will you provide?
  
• What choice of materials do I have for my budget and which type of window would be your recommendation?
  
• Is that type of window CE marked?
  
• What are the WER (window energy rating) and U-value of this type of window?
  
• Do you have a showroom nearby where I can take a closer look?
  
• What is the most difficult part of this project and how will you tackle that?
  
• Who will actually be carrying out the work and are they fully qualified?
  
• Will you be using sub-contractors?
  
• Will all workers be covered by public liability insurance and employer's’ liability insurance?
  
• Is your written quote fixed and inclusive of all labour, materials and VAT?
  
• Please can we agree a start and completion date and discuss what happens if the completion is delayed?
  
• How much disruption and mess will there be?
  
• Is a deposit required and, if so, is it protected by an Insurance Backed Guarantee?
  
• Is the work covered by guarantee or warranty?
  
• Will you repair faults without charge if they occur and be on hand to provide aftercare?
  
• Who will be my main point of contact after the job is completed?
  

Find window companies and glaziers on Houzz. Narrow your search in the Professionals section of the website to window companies. You can also look through photos by style to find new and replacement windows you like, then contact the glaziers, window manufacturers or companies who installed them.