Got any tips for me before I give a shedload of cash to a random window merchant?

[RoobyMurray]

What do I need to know?

I don't know anyone who's had new windows recently to recommend a company. So I suppose I just have to get the yellow pages out and ring around. But you hear such horror stories of dodgey window firms, so is there anything I should avoid or questions to ask?

ta.

[ChineseGinger]

Make sure you ask them to quote for trickle vents to all windows. Make it less random ask for recommendations from friends etc.

[RedGruffalo]

I guess you don't have the option of asking around for recommendations?

We had ours done many years ago with BAC (now SEHBAC) and the product was (and still is) very good, but the aftercare is complete rubbish. We had someone try to break in a few years ago and damaged part of the window, several years £700 and many many phone calls later it is still not fixed. Also have a problem with some hinges (just need to buy some specific new ones), but they are not the least bit interested in returning my calls.

I would not recommend them.

I have however learnt that there are only a few companies that actually make the windows and doors - most companies that sell and fit windows just buy them in from these factories. Not sure how that will help you. I guess I would ask lots of questions about the aftercare and ask for some references.

[RoobyMurray]

Thanks for that, it is useful!

A quick google brings up Everest and Anglia. Do big companies mean better service? Or would I be better off with a small local firm?

[ChineseGinger]

I think a local firm is better - ask to see some of their work. Nationwide companies may have a uniform product but their fitters vary enormously.

[Pannacotta]

Go local and do try to get a recommendation, ask on here or on Netmums.

Are you having plastic or wood? If wood then get local joinery companies to quote as they are cheaper than window firms with their big advertising budgets.

[ChineseGinger]

Also consider aluminium frames - they are slimmer, stronger, last longer and don't yellow like uPVC.

[SparklePffftBANG]

where abouts are you? We've recently had windows done b a local firm and would recommend

[DorisVinyard]

Don't use one of the big ones - I used one that you mention and they were appalling.

[SparklePffftBANG]

don't use anyone that has an advert with some man shouting

YER BUY ONE YER GET ONE FREE

[RoobyMurray]

netmums??

Ok, local it is then. We are in Manchester. And there is no way I would use the shouty man.

[SparklePffftBANG]

AH SAY YER BUY ON YER GET ONE FREE

sorry, we are in the NE

[Pannacotta]

No need to be snooty about netmums, its a good way to find local info and get recoomendations, my local site is much more active than the local board on here.

[trice]

We got ours from leeds glass. I would happily recommend them. Reasonable price and a good service. I don't know if they would come as far as manchester but you could try your local glazing firm.

These big companies always seem to be rip off merchants. The quote we had from Everest was laughable. Then they rang up twice a week for the next three months trying the hard sell.