Choosing to purchase your double glazing through a well-known national chain, such as Anglian, Direct Window Co, or Everest, or a smaller local business, such as Harvey’s Windows, is a big part of your investment decision.
Ultimately, your choice can hinge on various factors, including cost, customer service, product availability, and business reputation.
Large-scale national manufacturers and installers often have the advantage of a well-known professional brand and extensive resources. Their vendor partnerships and large budgets often allow them to offer a wider range of product choices, with comprehensive warranties, than some independent firms, and their large installation teams often mean that they can do installations at short notice.
However, large windows companies aren’t necessarily cheaper than smaller firms. In fact, in most cases they are more expensive because of their larger overheads, or because they target a more affluent market. Larger companies might also offer a less personalised sales and after-sales service than independent businesses due to their high volume of customers and fast turnaround.
The stability and reliability of large businesses is one of the main reasons that people purchase their windows through a national company. However, large businesses are not immune to financial trouble and even sudden bankruptcy, as the recent collapse of Safestyle UK and the imminent auctioning of Everest demonstrates. It’s essential to ensure that your deposit and contractual terms are insured and backed up by a third party before purchasing any double-glazing product, regardless of the size and credibility of the supplier.
What about smaller, independently owned double-glazing companies? With a small area of operation and a smaller team, independent companies often provide a more flexible and personalised service, which can give you higher satisfaction. They may also have greater flexibility in meeting your specific requirements or deadlines. Furthermore, as local businesses, they depend heavily on strong reviews, word-of-mouth referrals, and a professional local reputation – so have a vested interest in sustaining high levels of quality and customer service within their community.
On the other hand, smaller businesses usually have fewer resources than their larger competitors and subsequently might offer a smaller selection of products. It’s also essential to verify the service capacity of independent suppliers, as a small business may be less able to accommodate your preferred delivery timescale, and you may need to wait longer for installation at busy times. However, the wait may be worthwhile if it means you get a vetted and trusted fitting team.
In comparing larger window companies with smaller businesses, we would like to make it clear that there is no right or wrong answer. Obviously, we’d love it if you purchased your windows or doors through us! We have a great range of windows, doors, and conservatory products at competitive prices, and our team are second to none in the local area. However, the big installers are successful for a reason – whether price, choice, efficiency, or other factors – and we certainly can’t fault the many positive experiences that customers have with larger companies.
If you do your research, compare prices, look at reviews, check capabilities, and decide to go with a national business, then great. The important factor is that you look into the different options available in your local area, and not automatically go for a certain business because it’s a household name, or discount another one because it’s independent. There’s good service available from businesses of all types and sizes, and the only thing that is really important is to find a company that is the right fit for your needs, your budget, and your timescale.
To discuss your needs with one of our team, find out about our products or request a free quote, please get in touch today by calling 0116 497 1937. We look forward to helping you.