Choosing the right fabrication and installation partner for your next aluminium glazing project
Whether you're specifying aluminium glazing for a residential development, delivering a commercial project, designing a self-build or replacing existing windows and doors in your property, selecting the right supplier is just as important as choosing the right systems.
The performance of aluminium windows, doors and façades depends on more than just the product itself. Manufacturing quality, technical expertise and installation all play a significant role in achieving the intended thermal, weather and aesthetic performance throughout the life of the building.
What to look for in a window and door company
Choosing a supplier for your aluminium windows and doors can feel overwhelming, with many companies offering similar products and services. Taking the time to research potential suppliers and installers can help ensure you make an informed decision.
At Reynaers Aluminium UK, we work with a nationwide network of experienced fabricators and installers who manufacture and install our aluminium systems. These partners are supported through extensive technical training, product guidance and ongoing quality standards. However, whether you're choosing a Reynaers partner or another supplier, there are several important questions worth asking before making your decision.
Do they meet recognised industry standards?
A reputable window and door company should be able to demonstrate both compliance with current Building Regulations and a commitment to maintaining the competence of its workforce through recognised training and accreditation.
For residential replacement projects, membership of a recognised self-certification scheme, such as FENSA, CERTASS or Assure, provides additional reassurance that installations are carried out in accordance with the relevant Building Regulations. These schemes also help streamline the certification process on completion of the project.
Beyond certification schemes, it's worth asking what ongoing training and professional development the company invests in. As building regulations continue to evolve, including changes introduced through the Building Safety Act and future updates to energy performance standards, competence and continuous learning are becoming increasingly important across the construction industry.
You may also wish to ask whether surveyors, fabricators and installers undertake recognised industry training or hold qualifications such as those awarded by GQA Qualifications. A company that invests in developing its people is more likely to keep pace with changing regulations, industry best practice and product innovation.
Do they have a proven track record?
The window and door industry is well established and highly competitive. While newer businesses can certainly provide excellent service, a company with a proven trading history is more likely to have an established reputation, completed projects you can view and previous customers who can provide references.
Experience alone isn't everything, but it can offer greater confidence in a company's ability to deliver and support your project.
Do they have experience with the systems they're supplying?
Many fabricators and installers work with products from several different manufacturers, and the range they offer can change over time.
Although aluminium windows and doors may appear similar, different systems have unique design features and installation requirements. Asking how long a company has been manufacturing or installing the specific systems they are recommending can give you greater confidence that they understand the products and how to achieve the best results.
At Reynaers Aluminium UK, we provide ongoing technical support and training to help our manufacturing and installation partners work to consistently high standards, including a range of GQA-accredited training courses.
Can they demonstrate successful project delivery?
Online reviews have become an important part of researching products and services, and window and door companies are no exception.
Independent review platforms such as Google Reviews and Trustpilot can provide useful insight into customer experiences, as they typically have measures in place to help identify authentic feedback. While no review platform is perfect, independent reviews often provide a more balanced picture than testimonials published solely on a company's own website.
While customer reviews can provide useful insight, they're only one indicator of quality. For larger or more complex projects, it's also worth asking for case studies, project references, accreditation, examples of similar work and, where possible, recommendations from previous clients or project teams.
Additional resources when choosing a supplier
Choosing new aluminium windows and doors is a significant investment, so it's worth taking time to compare suppliers, ask detailed questions and understand exactly what's included in the quotation.
Beyond installation credentials, you may also want to ask about product performance, warranties, maintenance requirements, lead times and aftercare support. A reputable supplier should be happy to answer these questions and explain how their products will meet the needs of your project.
Finding an experienced aluminium window and door specialist
There are many trusted trade directories and industry associations that can help you find reputable window and door companies in your area.
If you're specifically interested in Reynaers aluminium systems, our nationwide network of fabricators and installers has experience delivering projects across the residential, commercial and mixed-use sectors, supported by Reynaers' technical expertise throughout the project lifecycle.
If you are a homeowner looking for an installer on your next home renovation project, find your local Reynaers installer partner here.
If you are working on a commercial project, please get in touch with us here for further support.
