With Everest, a big name in the double glazing industry, going into administration in late April 2024, and ongoing consolidation in the market, it’s more important than ever to pay due diligence when choosing a glazier for your home improvements.
West Norfolk Glass, a founding member of the GGF and Which? Trusted Trader
Like many sectors, the fenestration industry experienced a tough 2023 and an equally sluggish start to 2024. The post-pandemic years have seen pressure on the supply chain, rising material, energy and labour costs, and the cost of living crisis has undoubtedly created a cautious market. Whatever led Everest to close its doors on 24 April, it marked a significant moment in our industry with the reality that there may yet be further consolidation to come.
But what does this mean for Norfolk homeowners looking to upgrade their windows, doors and conservatories? It’s always important to look carefully at the company you choose to undertake any work on your property and, while the products you are selecting are usually the starting point for any discussion about home improvements, it’s equally important to feel comfortable with the salesperson and team behind them.
At West Norfolk Glass, we believe it is extremely important to treat clients with the utmost respect, and it’s why we have created our own customer charter with a code of conduct that everyone within our company adheres to. Our sales people will never apply pressure or use tactics to force a decision or secure a contract. Our website also contains a complaints procedure to ensure there is a clear and transparent policy to address any concerns a customer may have.
Why choose a local double glazing company?
Fifty years ago, the high street was a place where people knew each other and we chose businesses out of loyalty or personal recommendation. While the world has changed, particularly with the rise of online shopping and review sites, working with a local company means that there is someone to talk to for advice, or if you have any concerns.
An established company such as West Norfolk Glass offers the best of both worlds – founded in 1967, the company is still a family-owned and run business with a professional team including its own employed fitters. Accessible and responsive, it is able to provide homeowners with a robust and high-quality service when upgrading a property’s glazing or considering an extension.
Yet the company is well-established in the fenestration sector, having been a founding member of the Glass and Glazing Federation – the industry’s trade body – since it was formed in 1977, and it is still a member today.
Importantly, West Norfolk Glass is also a Which? Trusted Trader, having first met the strict criteria of the scheme in 2019, and this consumer badge of trust is reliant on the company’s business and administrative processes, financial health and customer reviews. Read more about West Norfolk Glass’ Which? Trusted Trader status here (LINK TO https://www.westnorfolkglass.co.uk/fifth-anniversary/) and customer reviews via the Which? Trusted Trader scheme here (LINK TO https://www.westnorfolkglass.co.uk/fifth-anniversary/).
While it might be tempting to work with a sole trader or fitter that can install windows and doors at below market cost, the risk for a homeowner is that there may be no redress if there is a problem. Similarly, a small glazing company may outsource fitting to a third party, again meaning there could be a potential problem if the installation is not guaranteed as a result. All of West Norfolk Glass’ installations come with a minimum 10-year guarantee.
At the other end of the spectrum, working with a large, national company could be problematic if you need to contact and speak with the team about an installation, with a potential lack of continuity in dealing with a concern.
More positively, with new double glazing products coming to market in 2024, now is an exciting time to upgrade your home’s windows and doors and by choosing West Norfolk Glass you can be assured of a high-quality job that will last the course.
