Latest news with #doubleglazing
The Independent
3 days ago
- Business
- The Independent
Safestyle windows review: best installer for recycling
Choosing the right windows and double glazing installer can make a significant difference to your home, not only improving insulation and reducing energy bills but also enhancing the overall aesthetic. In our comprehensive Safestyle windows review, we'll explore whether this popular national brand is the right choice for your home. With numerous providers on the market, ranging from smaller local fitters to larger national brands, comparing options can help you get the best double glazing companies for your needs. Consider gathering multiple quotes to better understand the cost of double glazing and typical UK window prices. Our Safestyle windows review assesses key factors including price, guarantee options, coverage, and overall quality. Why choose Safestyle? Area covered: England, Scotland and Wales Founded: 2024 Guarantee: 10 years Best for: National coverage and recycling Safestyle became well-known in North West England due to its quirky TV adverts featuring medieval-clad presenter Jeff Brown promoting buy-one-get-one-free deals, and later, former England goalkeeper David Seaman. However, Safestyle collapsed into administration in 2023 due to rising costs and weakened market demand. The company was bought by rival Anglian Home Improvements, but Safestyle's collapse left some customers with worthless guarantees. It now operates under new ownership but with a similar — though more limited — service range, and Safestyle's offerings place it slightly below Anglian in our list of best double glazing companies. Under Anglian's management, Safestyle continues to offer comprehensive services with a 10-year guarantee and extensive national coverage. One key selling point is its robust recycling policy, whereby your old windows are responsibly removed and recycled. We should note that Safestyle exclusively offers windows made from uPVC, a low-maintenance and durable material, so customers seeking wooden frames for conservation compliance or aesthetic preference will need to look elsewhere. Nonetheless, Safestyle offers an extensive range of uPVC window styles, including sash windows, bay, and triple-glazed options. Like Anglian Home Improvements, Safestyle promises to match competitor quotes and quotes remain valid for six months. Make sure you haggle, and that goes for any supplier on our list. Interestingly, Safestyle discounts are sometimes seen at the 15 per cent mark, rather than the 30 per cent others offer, but there's usually scope to negotiate better deals. As with its owner, Anglian, you can also finance your double glazing through Safestyle, but at a relatively high 12.9% APR, identical to Anglian's offer. Given that most personal loans can offer significantly better interest rates, exploring external finance or using savings could be more financially prudent. Other fitters on this list offer interest-free credit or other favourable payment terms. Pros: Robust recycling policy Extensive uPVC style selection Cons: uPVC frames only Mixed customer reviews Recent financial instability What to look for in a quote According to our research, fitting double glazing for the average three-bed house should cost about £4,500, depending on location and window sizes. Since double glazing isn't an urgent purchase for most homeowners unless windows are broken, there's significant room to negotiate. Buyers often manage to reduce initial quotes significantly, sometimes by as much as half, particularly with larger providers. This may seem unlikely, but it's true. That's because many firms rely on Britons' general discomfort over asking for discounts to make expensive initial offers. They also rely on their competitors doing the same. Haggling gives you the upper hand and also allows some time to research the best price and options. Smaller outfits that feel they need to be more competitive may not be able to drop by as much – use your judgement. As well as this Safestyle review, personal recommendations from trusted friends or family can offer valuable insight into choosing the best double glazing companies. How we made this guide We spoke to customers and fitters across the UK, as well as insiders in the double glazing market to find you the average prices for windows of all styles. They gave us tips on how to negotiate and save money and they told us never to say yes to the first quote you are offered. Why trust us? The Independent has been reporting on green energy and climate matters since it was founded in 1986. Since then, we have written hundreds of reviews and news stories on energy, including the best window fitters, the best window finance and other guides on green power. FAQs Should I get double or triple glazing? While double glazing is the usual choice for a home outside of a heavily restricted planning area, triple glazing could be a good option for some buyers, especially those in windy locations or those on busy, noisy roads. Expect to pay 15-30 percent more than for double glazing. These windows are heavier and available in fewer styles. Finding triple glazed windows in timber and aluminium is difficult. What is the average cost for double glazing? The average cost of a new set of eight uPVC windows for an average three-bedroom home in the UK is currently about £4,500, according to research by The Independent. The price you will pay for a new set of double glazing depends heavily on the style, materials, colours and glazing type of your windows, together with how many you need and where you are in the country. Most buyers opt for white uPVC, which is a type of plastic. It does not rust or rot, an advantage over wood, and it is cheaper than aluminium, the other popular low-maintenance material. It also doesn't bend like aluminium can. Pros:
The Independent
3 days ago
- Business
- The Independent
Everest windows review: best installer for transparent pricing
When choosing a company to install new double glazing, transparent pricing and reliable guarantees are key considerations. In this Everest windows review, we examine one of the UK's most well-known double glazing installers, assessing its current reputation, pricing transparency, and product quality to help you make an informed decision. We know that the cost of double glazing is a significant investment, and that is why we recommend comparing multiple quotes from installers to secure the most competitive price. Factors influencing the cost of double glazing should include window style, material, location, and the installer's reputation. In our detailed Everest windows review, we consider essential elements such as pricing, guarantees, national coverage, and customer feedback. For a comprehensive overview of other installers and typical UK window prices, check our broader list of the best double glazing companies. Why choose Everest? Everest is a familiar brand to many, thanks to memorable TV campaigns in the 1980s and 2000s featuring installations at the Tan Hill Inn, Britain's highest pub. But the company has had a troubled history in recent years, entering administration in both 2020, during the Covid lockdowns, and again in 2024. Everest is now under the ownership of Anglian Home Improvements. Its financial instability previously left some customers with unfulfilled warranties and the inability to cancel orders. Fortunately, Everest's new owners honoured purchases made just before the collapse. Everest provides a broad selection of window options, including uPVC, timber, and aluminium. Its user-friendly website also lists doors and conservatories. Despite this, Everest's financial troubles and mixed customer reviews rank it lowest among the companies we've evaluated. However, a significant positive for Everest is its transparent pricing guide, a rarity in the industry and indeed unlike any other firm we have reviewed. Standard uPVC casement windows range from £700 to £1,800 per window. Sash windows typically cost around 50 per cent more, tilt-and-turn models 25 per cent more, bay windows 150 per cent more, aluminium frames about 25 per cent more, and timber around 50 per cent more than uPVC. Readers should note that these prices are the company's asking prices and should be taken as a starting point for negotiations. Buyers should view these as a starting point and aim to negotiate downwards by 25 to 50 per cent, particularly if paying upfront or commissioning additional work. Everest says its windows are now triple-glazed as standard, enhancing heat retention but adding approximately 10 to 20 per cent to the overall cost. Financing options are available through Everest, but with a steep interest rate of 12.9 per cent, it is advisable to consider using savings or exploring loans from high-street lenders offering significantly lower rates. Pros: Transparent pricing Triple glazing as standard for uPVC Cons: Expensive Mixed customer reviews Went under twice in recent years What to look for in a quote Based on our research, fitting new double-glazed uPVC windows in an average three-bedroom hom e should cost approximately £4,500. Location, window sizes, and styles will affect this price. It's important to haggle. Windows are more of a buyers' market because, unless the panes themselves are broken, it's a purchase you can put off, at least for a little while. This gives you the upper hand and allows some time to research the best price and options. Depending on the installer and how tricky your installation is, you may be able to shave up to half off the initial quote you are given. This may seem unlikely, but it's true. Given the competitiveness of the double glazing market, buyers have considerable leverage to negotiate. Take your time and do thorough research to secure the best price. Quotes from larger installers may initially be inflated, relying on consumer hesitation to negotiate. However, smaller installers, eager to secure business, may have less room to offer discounts. Seek personal recommendations when possible. Companies that provide fair pricing and reliable service for others will likely offer the same to you. How we made this guide We spoke to customers and fitters across the UK, as well as insiders in the double glazing market to find you the average prices for windows of all styles. They gave us tips on how to negotiate and save money and they told us never to say yes to the first quote you are offered. Why trust us? The Independent has been reporting on green energy and climate matters since it was founded in 1986. Since then, we have written hundreds of reviews and news stories on energy, including the best window fitters, the best window finance and other guides on green power. FAQs While double glazing is the usual choice for a home outside of a heavily restricted planning area, triple glazing could be a good option for some buyers, especially those in windy locations or those on busy, noisy roads. Expect to pay 15-30 percent more than for double glazing. These windows are heavier and available in fewer styles. Finding triple glazed windows in timber and aluminium is difficult. What is the average cost for double glazing? The average cost of a new set of eight uPVC windows for an average three-bedroom home in the UK is currently about £4,500, according to research by The Independent. The price you will pay for a new set of double glazing depends heavily on the style, materials, colours and glazing type of your windows, together with how many you need and where you are in the country. Most buyers opt for white uPVC, which is a type of plastic. It does not rust or rot, an advantage over wood, and it is cheaper than aluminium, the other popular low-maintenance material. It also doesn't bend like aluminium can. Pros:
The Independent
7 days ago
- Business
- The Independent
Anglian Home Improvements review: our best installer for national coverage
If you're looking for new windows for your home, our Anglian Home Improvements review is here to help. We've done the analysis to guide you through what to expect, from cost to coverage, and how the company compares to the best double glazing companies in the UK. When upgrading your windows, you can choose from both local and national installers. Anglian Home Improvements is one of the largest national providers, but does bigger always mean better? We assess everything from pricing and guarantees to style range and customer satisfaction to help you decide. When comparing options, be sure to get multiple quotes. This not only helps you understand the cost of double glazing, but also gives you leverage to negotiate better deals. Why choose Anglian Windows? Anglian Home Improvements is the longest-running company on our list, established in 1966. Now owned by private equity firm Alchemy Partners, it fits over half a million windows, doors and other home products annually. With operations across Britain, Anglian offers a wide range of services, including windows, doors, porches, blinds and conservatories. So if national reach and extensive product choice are your top priorities, Anglian Home Improvements should top your list. It offers a dizzying selection of uPVC, aluminium and timber models, with all sorts of sizes and colours. Anglian manufactures its windows in its Norwich factory and can tailor them to your exact measurements. The range includes: uPVC, aluminium and timber windows Casement, sash, tilt-and-turn and bay styles Secondary glazing for additional insulation Anglian's uPVC windows are especially popular for their durability and value. Timber frames offer a more traditional look, while aluminium appeals to modern homes. Cost is one of our key assessment factors, and Anglian does have a reputation for being on the pricier side. However, the company also promises to match competitors' uPVC window prices — a strong incentive to shop around before you commit. Still, while it's tempting to let Anglian Home Improvements match the lowest quote, don't stop there. If you have chosen Anglian as your window fitter, then make sure to negotiate and see if any further discounts are available. Anglian Home Improvements also offers money off if you recycle your old windows through the firm, which might make for a further attractive discount. On average, replacing the windows in a three-bed home with uPVC double glazing costs around £4,500, though this depends on your location and specifications. To see how this compares with other installers, check out our guide to UK window prices. Anglian Home Improvements does provide finance options, though the advertised 12.9% APR is less competitive than most personal loans, with rates closer to half of what Anglian is offering being available. If you can, using your savings or arranging external financing may offer better value. A big plus for Anglian, though, is the sheer choice available, with wooden options as well as uPVC and aluminium. The firm will also make sash windows, as well as the usual outward-opening casement style. Modern tilt and turn windows – the ones that will hinge at the bottom to allow a small vent at the top as well as hinging on the side – and bay windows are also on offer, as is secondary glazing. Pros: Wide range of materials and styles Nationwide coverage Established reputation Cons: Higher-than-average prices Mixed customer reviews What to look for in a quote According to our research, the average three-bed house should cost about £4,500 to fit with new double-glazed uPVC windows, depending on location and window sizes. It's important to haggle, perhaps more than with other purchases. Windows are more of a buyer's market, since unless the panes themselves are broken, it's a purchase you can put off, at least for a little while. This gives you the upper hand and allows some time to research the best price and options. Depending on the installer and how tricky your installation is, you may be able to shave up to half off the initial quote you are given. This may seem unlikely, but it's true. That's because many firms rely on Britons' general discomfort over asking for discounts to make expensive initial offers. They also rely on their competitors doing the same. Smaller outfits that feel they need to be more competitive may not be able to drop by as much – use your judgement. As well as using this guide, it is also worth getting personal recommendations. If a company has done a good job at a fair price for a friend or colleague, they will probably do the same for you. How we made this guide We spoke to customers and fitters across the UK, as well as insiders in the double glazing market to find you the average prices for windows of all styles. They gave us tips on how to negotiate and save money, and they told us never to say yes to the first quote you are offered. Why trust us? The Independent has reported on climate and green energy since its founding in 1986. We've reviewed hundreds of energy-saving products and services — from double glazing to the best window finance and other guides on green power.. Our reviews are backed by expert research, real customer feedback and transparent comparisons. FAQs Should I get double or triple glazing? While double glazing is the usual choice for a home outside of a heavily restricted planning area, triple glazing could be a good option for some buyers, especially those in windy locations or those on busy, noisy roads. Expect to pay 15-30 per cent more than for double glazing. These windows are heavier and available in fewer styles. Finding triple-glazed windows in timber and aluminium is difficult. What is the average cost for double glazing? The average cost of a new set of eight uPVC windows for an average three-bedroom home in the UK is currently about £4,500, according to research by The Independent. The price you will pay for a new set of double glazing depends heavily on the style, materials, colours and glazing type of your windows, together with how many you need and where you are in the country. Most buyers opt for white uPVC, which is a type of plastic. It does not rust or rot, an advantage over wood, and it is cheaper than aluminium, the other popular low-maintenance material. It also doesn't bend like an aluminium can. What are the advantages and disadvantages of double glazing? Pros: Great insulation Reduced noise Energy efficiency Available in many styles Cons:
The Independent
7 days ago
- Business
- The Independent
First Home Improvements review: best installer for long-lasting quotes
If it's time for a new set of windows for your home, we're here to answer all your questions on double glazing and guide you through the best double glazing companies in the UK. In this First Home Improvements review, we look at one of the most established uPVC window installers in England. With a long-standing reputation, competitive pricing, and a rare two-year quote validity, First Home Improvements stands out as a top choice for homeowners — especially if you're comparing options based on UK window prices and the cost of double glazing. Why choose First Home Improvements? Area covered: Most of England, particularly the South and East. Founded: 2008 (original business roots date back to the 1970s) Guarantee: 12 years Best for: Good reviews and long quote validity First Home Improvements is one of the longest-standing names in the UK's window installation market, with roots in the 1970s and its current form established through a 2008 management buyout. What sets First apart is its two-year quote validity, which is far longer than that of most competitors. This gives homeowners time to save or consider other options without losing their initial quote. It's one of the reasons why First made it onto our best double glazing companies list. If you're looking for wooden or aluminium windows, First Home Improvements may not be the right choice — they focus solely on uPVC products. But for homeowners who prefer uPVC and aren't served by installers like Coral Windows or Britelite, First could be the best fit. There's plenty of choice within the realm of uPVC, however, including casement, sash, tilt and turn and even Tudor windows. First Home Improvements also markets oval, triangle, round and arched windows. The company also offers a wide range of colours and textures, so there's no need to stick with white if you want a more contemporary look. Its 12-year guarantee is one of the longest in the industry, and combined with competitive pricing, helped First Home Improvement place third in our UK window prices comparison. In addition to windows, First also installs doors, porches and conservatories, and offers a handy online door designer tool, which is very useful if you can't get to a showroom. Like many competitors, First Home Improvements often runs 30% off promotions, so it's worth timing your quote to coincide with these offers. First Home Improvements also offers financing, but details on the website are limited. This often suggests higher-than-average rates, so it may be worth considering independent lenders. For example, for loans of £7,500 to £20,000: TSB offers 5.9% APR over 1–5 years Novuna Personal Finance offers 6% M&S Bank offers 6% over 1–7 years Borrowing £10,000 over 7 years at 6% APR will cost around £2,271 in interest, with monthly repayments of £146. Pros: 12 year-guarantee Good reviews Broad choice of uPVC styles and finishes Cons: No timber or aluminium products Limited transparency on financing What to look for in a quote According to our research, the average three-bed house should cost about £4,500 to fit with new double-glazed uPVC windows, depending on location and window sizes. It's important to haggle, perhaps more than many with other purchases. Windows are more of a buyers' market, since unless the panes themselves are broken, it's a purchase you can put off, at least for a little while. This gives you the upper hand and allows some time to research the best price and options. Depending on the installer and how tricky your installation is, you may be able to shave up to half off the initial quote you are given. This may seem unlikely, but it's true. That's because many firms rely on Britons' general discomfort over asking for discounts to make expensive initial offers. They also rely on their competitors doing the same. Smaller outfits that feel they need to be more competitive may not be able to drop by as much – use your judgement. As well as this guide, it is also worth getting personal recommendations. If a company has done a good job at a fair price for a friend or colleague, they will probably do the same for you. How we made this guide We spoke to customers and fitters across the UK, as well as insiders in the double glazing market to find you the average prices for windows of all styles. They gave us tips on how to negotiate and save money and they told us never to say yes to the first quote you are offered. Why trust us? The Independent has been reporting on green energy and climate matters since it was founded in 1986. Since then, we have written hundreds of reviews and news stories on energy, including the best window fitters, the best window finance and other guides on green power. FAQs While double glazing is the usual choice for a home outside of a heavily restricted planning area, triple glazing could be a good option for some buyers, especially those in windy locations or those on busy, noisy roads. Expect to pay 15-30 percent more than for double glazing. These windows are heavier and available in fewer styles. Finding triple glazed windows in timber and aluminium is difficult. What is the average cost for double glazing? The average cost of a new set of eight uPVC windows for an average three-bedroom home in the UK is currently about £4,500, according to research by The Independent. The price you will pay for a new set of double glazing depends heavily on the style, materials, colours and glazing type of your windows, together with how many you need and where you are in the country. Most buyers opt for white uPVC, which is a type of plastic. It does not rust or rot, an advantage over wood, and it is cheaper than aluminium, the other popular low-maintenance material. It also doesn't bend like aluminium can. What are the advantages and disadvantages of double glazing? Pros:
The Independent
16-07-2025
- Business
- The Independent
Clearview Windows review: best installer for a good guarantee
If it's time to upgrade your home with energy-efficient windows, we're here to guide you through the process and help you choose an installer from the best double glazing companies in the UK. When replacing or installing new double glazing, you'll find a mix of local and national providers. Be sure to gather multiple quotes to find the most competitive deal and understand the cost of double glazing in your area. In our Clearview Windows review, we assess one of the top regional providers based on price, guarantees, product range and customer satisfaction. You can also explore our broader guide comparing the UK window prices and fitters nationwide. Why choose Clearview Windows? Area covered: The northwest of England, including North Wales, West Derbyshire and South Lakes Founded: 2008 Guarantee: 20 years on products (roofs, PVC frames, doors, and glass), 10 years on aluminium and building work Best for: Long guarantees and award-winning service Clearview Windows stands out for offering a generous 20-year product guarantee, which is significantly longer than the industry standard. What's more, installation and building work are still covered for 10 years. Focused on the North West, Clearview has earned recognition in the industry, including Installer of the Year award three years running at the the Glass & Glazing Federation's G-Awards. While timber frame options are unavailable — a common limitation for regional installers — Clearview Windows offers a wide range of modern uPVC and aluminium windows, including its own Extreme brand of A+ rated energy-efficient products. These windows are regularly featured in promotional offers, with up to a third off during sales. Clearview Windows is also known for its attention to design. Its conservatory offerings span everything from classic white uPVC greenhouse-style builds to sleek, contemporary extensions. However, the firm also has a good selection of windows, including casement and flush models for uPVC and slimline aluminium frames for a modern look. Flush casement windows, as the name suggests, sit flush to their frame, rather than overlapping it like a regular uPVC model. Some buyers find that these look neater. Customers can visit showrooms in Preston, Nantwich and Warrington, or arrange a design consultation at home. As with its competitors, financing is expensive, and either paying in cash or getting a cheaper loan is probably a better financial choice. If you are ordering a conservatory, a three-month interest-free option is available, but this does not apply to windows or doors. All products are manufactured at the company's factory in Yorkshire, ensuring local quality control and faster delivery. Clearview Windows financing options Clearview offers financing, though rates may be higher than alternatives. If budget allows, paying in cash or securing an independent loan may offer better value. Clearview offers a number of financing options. You can order today with a 20% deposit and spread your cost over 60 months with an 11.9% rate of interest. For windows and doors, the company offers the option to place your order with a 20% deposit and pay nothing for three months, with interest at 10.9% when payments start. On living spaces, you can pay just £99 deposit and pay nothing for 12 months; however, the interest rate when payments start is 19.9%. Pros: 20-year product guarantee on many items Good customer feedback Multiple showrooms and design consultation options Cons: No timber options Focused on North West region only Limited price transparency online What to look for in a quote According to our research, the average three-bed house should cost about £4,500 to fit with new double-glazed uPVC windows, depending on location and window sizes. It's important to haggle, perhaps more than many with other purchases. Windows are more of a buyers' market, since unless the panes themselves are broken, it's a purchase you can put off, at least for a little while. This gives you the upper hand and allows some time to research the best price and options. Depending on the installer and how tricky your installation is, you may be able to shave up to half off the initial quote you are given. This may seem unlikely, but it's true. That's because many firms rely on Britons' general discomfort over asking for discounts to make expensive initial offers. They also rely on their competitors doing the same. Smaller outfits that feel they need to be more competitive may not be able to drop by as much – use your judgement. As well as this guide, it is also worth getting personal recommendations. If a company has done a good job at a fair price for a friend or colleague, they will probably do the same for you. How we made this guide We spoke to customers and fitters across the UK, as well as insiders in the double glazing market to find you the average prices for windows of all styles. They gave us tips on how to negotiate and save money and they told us never to say yes to the first quote you are offered. Why trust us? The Independent has been reporting on green energy and climate matters since it was founded in 1986. Since then, we have written hundreds of reviews and news stories on energy, including the best window fitters, the best window finance and other guides on green power. FAQs Double glazing is usually sufficient for most UK homes, particularly those not located on busy roads or in exposed, windy locations. Triple glazing offers better insulation and noise reduction, but it comes at a higher cost — typically 15–30% more — and with fewer style options, especially for timber or aluminium frames. These windows are heavier and available in fewer styles. Finding triple glazed windows in timber and aluminium is difficult. The average cost of a new set of eight uPVC windows for an average three-bedroom home in the UK is currently about £4,500, according to research by The Independent. The price you will pay for a new set of double glazing depends heavily on the style, materials, colours and glazing type of your windows, together with how many you need and where you are in the country. Most buyers opt for white uPVC, which is a type of plastic. It does not rust or rot, an advantage over wood, and it is cheaper than aluminium, the other popular low-maintenance material. It also doesn't bend like aluminium can. Pros:
