Dirty windows made clearer (Double Glazing in General)

Member Name: Tonyt1401

Product:	Double Glazing in General
Date:	13/09/06 (3102 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Hopefully sound advice

Disadvantages: Written by a Double Glazing Salesman

I am new to Dooyoo and have spent the last hour or so trawling through various reviews and reading some witty, harsh and in some instances quite funny text.

Imagine my horror though when I typed in my industry sector and after having waited a few moments for the page to load being confronted with some very negative headlines!!

I have been involved in the home improvement industry for many years and most specifically replacement windows and doors. (Now it takes a brave person to admit that in hostile surroundings!)

I do however understand though that these reviews and opinions are only based on peoples personal experience and for that I am sorry, especially considering that replacement windows, doors, conservatories and roofline products are not generally the cheapest improvements you will make to your home. (I am however relieved though that my company has not featured negatively in any of these reviews)

In truth the market is hugely competitive and there are many reputable companies operating in a professional and moral manner. On the other hand though for every good company there are probably 100 companies who do not provide the product, service, installation or customer care that a discerning homeowner deserves.

I could offer a huge amount of biased opinion at this stage which would change the emphasis and basis of this review to an advertisment which is not my intention so I would offer the following unbiased advice when you are looking to replace your windows, doors, roofline products or install a conservatory.

1. Ensure that the companies that you invite into your home have been established for a reasonable amount of time and can prove this!!

2. Ensure that they are a FENSA acredited company. The implications of having your windows fitted by a company which is not FENSA acredited could be severe and even result in you not being able to sell your own home!!

3. Ensure that any kitemarks they present in their documentation is licensed to them.

4. Be prepared to listen to the consultant as he/she is only trying to relay to you the full extent of his knowledge regarding the product and his /her company. (Remeber by listening not only will you pick up all the positive aspects but also anything that is negative as well!!)

5. Do not invite to many companies to quote. 3 or 4 is generally sufficient. Too many companies and you will get confused.

6. If your gut feel is positive don't be frightened to agree a deal but do not sign until you are completely satisfied and have viewed some local installations and spoken to some existing customers.

7. Windows are generally an expensive improvement to your home and one that does need careful consideration so be sure why you are replacing your windows and make yourself fully aware of what the benefits to you will be before parting with your hard earned money.

8. When considering the "new designs" to your windows ensure that you allow adequate fire escapes in ALL bedrooms and also sufficient high level ventilation all through your home.

9. Interest free "Buy Now Pay Later Schemes" can be very beneficial and allow you to test your windows before paying the balance outstanding.

10. DO NOT sign the satisfaction certificate at the end of the installation unless your windows etc have been installed to your 100% satisfaction and approval!

11. IN every situation you must ensure that the companies Guarantee is insurance underwritten and that this is proven to you. Ask for the insurers details and contact them if you wish to confirm what you have been told!!

12. The more openings, and additions to your windows will increase the cost so consider carefully what you are designing, why you are designing it in that way and what the benefits to you will be.

Bear in mind that it is all the "rougue" companies that have created the stigma for those who work in an ethical and professional manner.

I do consider myself as a specialist in my field and justify my time spent with a customer as providing a service which if done properly is useful and beneficial.

If someone is going to spend a large amount of money with my company (thousands of pounds) then I would at least give them the courtesy of my time, experience and knowledge. That may be 1 hour or it may be 5 hours after all the windows have to last a lifetime so its best to get it right first time.

The cheapest quote is not always the best!

Thats better, I feel a little better now!

Happy "Window Shopping"

Summary: Simple advice made simplier!!