In the run-up to the winter months, replacement windows and doors for improved thermal efficiency becomes increasingly popular. Unfortunately, research suggests that many homeowners express dissatisfaction in the quality of the glazing products and services they’re provided with.
Figures from Citizens Advice suggests that each year, around 4,000 complaints are registered with the bureau towards window and door fitters. This amounts to approximately 10% of all complaints the bureau receives each year relating to maintenance work and home improvement.
For the most part, the complaints concern poor workmanship, poor service and jobs taking way longer to complete than promised. In addition, the quality of the products being installed is an issue for hundreds of dissatisfied homeowners each year.
Gillian Guy, Chief Executive of Citizens Advice, said that thousands of people are seeking advice after home improvement jobs go bad.
“People trying to improve their homes are finding them in a worse state than before they started. Dealing with botched jobs and unfinished work means many are left out of pocket and face huge disruptions to their lives.”
Therefore, consumer watchdogs are calling on the public to be proactive when sourcing a reputable glazing supplier. Rather than simply choosing at random or prioritising price over quality, experts insist that strategic selection based on what really matters is the only way to guarantee a great installation.
Narrowing down to the glazing companies you can trust isn’t difficult. Just be mindful of the following to ensure they’re worthy of your time and money:
A glazing installation track record
Take a brief look into the glazier’s history and track record. Have they been around for some time and have the experience needed to get the job done? Do they have an established track record in this particular line of work and a portfolio of completed projects to showcase their capabilities? Do a little digging and don’t be afraid to ask questions where necessary.
A professional attitude for every glazing installation
From the first moment of contact with the glazing company, you will be able to tell if you’re dealing with a team of proud and passionate professionals. Anything less will justify you taking your business elsewhere. How a glazing company represents and portrays itself will often reflect their approach and professionalism.
Accurate and obligation-free window quotations
Vague quotations and rough estimations should be avoided. All quotations provided by a glazing company should be fixed and guaranteed not to shift once the work is underway. In addition, all estimates and consultations should be offered on an obligation-free basis. At no point in the process should you feel obliged to continue against your will.
No high-pressure double glazing sales tactics
High-pressure sales tactics are the mark of an unprofessional glazing company that’s desperate to close sales. If they’re as good as they claim, an ethical glazing company shouldn’t need to pressure or force you into a decision. You should be given all the time you need to make the right decision for your home, without being pressured into signing a contract.
No ‘limited time’ double glazing offers
Steer clear of glazing companies that attempt to blindside you with ‘limited time’ offers. “I can offer you the full package at this special price but only if you sign the contract within the next 24 hours” – as a common example. A high-pressure sales tactic demonstrates that the glazing company doesn’t have the client’s best interests at heart.
Glazier feedback and recommendations
Customer feedback and recommendations will tell you all you need to know about how a glazing company performs when put to the test. If you’re struggling to find feedback, reviews, ratings and recommendations online, ask the glazing company to point you in the right direction.
For more information or to discuss our glazing options without any pressure or hard sell, contact a member of the team at A&C Glazing today.
