I recently read an article in the “Which” magazine regarding the sales tactics adopted by some of the bigger nationwide companies in the Double Glazing Industry. And it prompted me to think “Do people actually get taken in by these sales tactics?”

Well obviously they do, because these companies are all still trading and going strong for that point. But why?

I certainly wouldn’t think I was getting a bargain just because a company was willing to reduce their price by almost 50% if I signed on the dotted line there and then. What would be going through my mind is that fact that they were blatantly willing to rip me off in the first place. Why do these companies feel the need to adopt this method of selling, which only gives the industry a bad name? Why like the rest of us, can they not just submit their best price in the first instance!!

I don’t think I will ever get an answer, and I don’t suppose things will ever change. But I guess if most of us smaller local companies are pricing and selling our products with integrity, we can only hope that the consumers will see through the others and realise its best to buy and support local companies.

More people choose uPVC windows than any other framing material. Some 85% of homes in the UK are estimated to have them.

For years many have chosen uPVC window frames because they are great to look at, affordable and never need painting. Today, however, with climate change issues in mind, it also makes good sense to choose uPVC windows and doors.

There are more A energy rated uPVC windows than other framing material. And uPVC windows score top marks in the BRE Green Guide for sustainability and they are recyclable.

Although little known, uPVC from old windows can now be used to make new windows as well as other items. Plus uPVC can be recycled not once, but up to 10 times.

Design-wise, uPVC is by far the most versatile framing material. Frame designs can equally suit traditional-style buildings, modern architecture and low-energy consuming homes. And they always look good – no peeling paint, no rusty bits, no paint on windows and there are loads of styles to choose from.

So the summer is nearly over and in a couple of weeks the kids go back to school....except as usual we haven’t had a summer!!  June was good, but July and August have once again been a complete wash out. 

Will this trend continue for years to come...probably!  So if last year was anything to go by, then we’ve got a cold winter to look forward to.

Which is why now is a good time to think about changing your windows and doors to energy efficient uPVC.  Installing energy efficient glazing is an effective way of reducing your energy bills and keeping your home warmer and quieter.

The benefits of having double glazing installed, according to the www.energysavingtrust.org.uk are:

“The benefits of double glazing

• Smaller energy bills: replacing all single glazed windows with energy efficient glazing could save you around £130 per year on your energy bills.
• A smaller carbon footprint: by using less fuel, you’ll generate less of the carbon dioxide (CO₂) that leads to global warming.
• A more comfortable home: energy efficient glazing reduces heat loss through windows and means fewer draughts and cold spots.
• Peace and quiet: as well as keeping the heat in, energy efficient windows insulate your home against unwanted outside noise.
• Reduced condensation: energy efficient glazing reduces condensation build-up on the inside of windows.”

So don’t wait for the cold winter months to set in, think about making the changes now.