New windows

jimjam83

Hi all, we’re considering investing in new windows. The current ones are showing signs of age (condensation between double glazing, draughtiness, seals look very worn). Any recommendations on reputable companies and ones to stay clear of?!

MovingForwards

Avoid big named ones. Use local companies.
Replacing the sealed glass units will be a lot cheaper than replacing the whole frame / sealed unit.

Without knowing an area / county, no one can make any suggestions.

FreeBear

MovingForwards said: Avoid big named ones. Use local companies.

Anglian, Everest, Zenith, Safestyle, First Home Improvements, etc, etc - Avoid the lot. If they neeb to advertise in the papers & TV, you can be sure you will be paying for it along with all their junkets. Should they come in and offer "special" deals (window scrappage or "funding") or can do a discount if you sign now, throw them out of the door.

Some of the larger local companies can be just as bad for dodgy sales tactics... My go-to installer is a one man band who doesn't advertise. Although he is not the cheapest, his attention to detail is exemplary.

jimjam83

MovingForwards said:

Avoid big named ones. Use local companies.
Replacing the sealed glass units will be a lot cheaper than replacing the whole frame / sealed unit.

Without knowing an area / county, no one can make any suggestions.

Sorry - in the Manchester area!

Jeepers_Creepers

I second MF's suggestion - go local, local, local.

I'd go for complete new windows rather than just new glazing units - the sheer pleasure of smoothly-operating openers, draught-proof seals, pure white (or whatevs colour...) frames. And knowing the installer is in your locality should you need them again.

I had a couple of large windows replaced around 5 years ago. I short-listed three local companies, all with good reputations. I also called a 'National' - can't remember which one, but they tend to be similar.

The three 'locals' came out, no pressure at all, good thick frames from reputable manufacturers (Rehau etc), etc etc - and the three quote were within a gnat's crochet of each other.

(There might also be nation-wide companies, these days, which specialise in very low quotes and decent service, but I know nothing of them.)

The National's? Well, I had to show him the door after an hour of the most numbing and tedious sales pitch, and the cringing embarrassment of watching his performance as he called his 'manager' for a 'special discount just for us' - if we sign there and then. Their quote started at around the £5k mark, and ended at about £3k as we finally pushed him out. The local quotes were ~£1.5k.

Went for the local company which showed genuine interest in finding the best design for our house - and he was right. The windows are still 'as new', 100% air-tight seals, and as smooth as the day they were fitted. I added to their glowing reviews.

tacpot12

It is possible that the seals can be replaced. I would look into that first as complete replacement will be expensive and messy. If the seals are the cause behind the draughtiness, then it will worth getting the failed units replaced. If you are going to keep the windows, I would suggest you give the hinges and catches a spray with some silicone grease to improve their operation.