Can anyone recommend a window company near Colchester?

[FlyLikeABird]

Just that really. I'm relatively new to the area so don't know many people to ask for recommendations and I don't entirely trust online reviews!

I'm looking for a company that does uPVC but would absolutely love aluminium (however I think these might be £££).

I've had Zenith round, not impressed! Hoping to use a reliable local firm if possible. Google is a bit hit and miss.

If you google Porters Windows, they are based in Ipswich but covers Colchester. Have used them on my home and on a property I let out in Colchester and thoroughly recommend.

Super, I'll give them a ring in the morning.

XL windows are another Ipswich company who are very good. Not sure if they cover Colchester though.

Thanks, I'll add XL to the list.

Who ever you use make sure you do not pay them till job is complete and you are happy. Lots of double glazing companies are limited and have had numerous names, shutting down a d ratting again leaving people who have paid in advance out of pocket.

My relatives have had a lot of work done by Softview and swear by them

I had softview windows installed 3 years ago. They were cheap (for the same product as, say, Everest), turned up when they said they would, did the work well, finishing when they said they would. The salesman was no nonsense - he said before he started that the price was the price, whenever I code to sign. There would be no "one-time special deals if you sign now" or follow-on phone calls.

3 years later, the windows and doors still work.

Fantastic, this really helps. This is my first owned home and I'm clueless. Trying to do as much as we can ourselves but want the structural stuff to be done professionally.

The previous owners were DIY bodgers so I want to add value where possible but not blow the budget. We are looking to sell in a couple of years time so using an insured and guaranteed local company for the windows and doors seems the best option.

Saying that I always weep a bit when quotes come in, I don't think I'm very realistic!

We had 5 windows and 1 door done for about £3.5k. Everest wanted in excess of £10k and had really fishy sales tactics

Thank DrDolittle that sounds a reasonable price!