Double Glazing contract - any tips

sarah_elton

I saved enough to replace my scabby old windows. :D

Had quotes, negotiated £600 off with my favoured company, and verbally agreed it. Tomorrow night the salesman's popping back to run through the contract with me and take a deposit.

I want to confirm with him exactly what they're doing (e.g. tidying plasterwork after removing old secondary unit double glazing, replacing fascia on my bay window), and ideally have a note of it on the contract. Also run through the exact process and timescales (I got the basics when he came to quote).

Anything else I need to think about at this stage? It's my first home and I've never had anything major done before...

sarah_elton

Thanks for all the tips Toots - it's a flat, and I'm only getting windows done, not the front door. Good point re wibbly glass - I have noticed that before yes.

I already know they're FENSA registered and will check their policy if they go bust (one of the reasons I'm using this one is they've been going over 20 years already).

Balance of payment is on completion, and I wouldn't pay till I was absolutely satisfied.

fabs35

Hi

I'm having my windows and doors replaced at the moment. Just a few quick pointers:

• Go with personal recommendations or failing that ask for references
• Decide if you want PVCu, MDF or hardwood frames
• Have as many openings as possible, ensure that you have cross-ventilation
• Both windows and doors should be fitted from the inside
• Fitters should make good all damage to brick/plaster work
• Doors/windows should be multi-locking
• Have the timescales written into the agreement
• Units should be argon filled to help with sound insullation and energy efficiency
• Thermal foam should be used to fill gaps between the units and your walls
• Dust sheets should be used to cover floors and new ones to cover your furniture
• You should receive a Fensa guarantee and independent insurance against the frames

Thats all I can think of for now - hope it helps

sarah_elton

Thanks for the tips guys - as it turns out, everything you mentioned was on the paperwork already! (Except the argon point, but I asked) At no point during the whole process was the salesman pushy at all, in fact he was probably the most laid back person I've ever met. And the detailed and professional work contract allayed any last fears I had.

Touch wood, in 8 weeks I'll be recommending First Glass Windows (anyone who's listened to Essex radio in the last ten years can sing their jingle ). They were recommended to me and I can see why.

ormus

maybe im just a cynical old bat.
but all the trade orgs seem to be a club to keep the punters in the dark, and to make money for the org. and to keep the gov off their backs.
most warranties and gaurantees are not worth the paper they are written on.

see the NHBC and corgi for examples. almost anyone can join/register if you tick the right boxes and pay the fee. im sure fensa is the same.

i can set up a company tomorrow to inspect and certify BSI/iso spec to a business!
theres no law against it!

good luck with your windows though.