Implementing home improvements, and the myriad of decisions that come before installation, can be overwhelming. The energy crisis has forced many homeowners to assess just how energy-efficient their home is. One major culprit for heat loss is our windows, but the installation of double glazed windows could help reduce energy bills and boost home security.
There are a number of reputable double glazing companies in the UK. Some operate nationwide, while others service local areas. What’s most important is to not make any rushed decisions – there’s a lot to consider. Each provider has pros and cons, and what suits one homeowner may not suit the other.
Our guide to the best double glazing installers focuses on design, windows’ cost and company reputation.
Double glazing benefits
- Reduced energy bills
- Noise reduction
- Increased security
- Increased property value
Best double glazing companies compared
The options for double glazing windows installers in the UK are plentiful. Both nationwide and local installers offer a range of windows with options to choose different frame materials and glass types. Some offer custom-made designs, which would suit homeowners concerned with style and aesthetics, while other installers cater for small budgets. The best double glazing installer for you should suit your budget and style preferences.
| Double glazing companies | Cost per window | Available materials | Guarantees | Energy efficiency ratings | Trustpilot score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Everest | £500–£3,200 | uPVC, aluminium, wood | 10-year, 20-year or lifetime (for a fee) transferable guarantees | A+ for uPVC windows | 4.4 stars |
| Anglian | £300–£910 | uPVC, aluminium, wood | 10-year guarantee for all parts and labour, 10 – 15 years for gas-filled windows | A or A+ for double glazing uPVC; A++ for triple glazing | 3.9 stars |
| Safestyle | £300–£1,050 | uPVC | 10 – 15-year standard guarantee (excluding handles) | A | 4.1 stars |
| Crystal | £300–£1,050 | uPVC | 10-year guarantee | A+ | 4.7 stars |
Anglian Home Improvements
Anglian Home Improvements is one of the major players in the windows industry. Anglian has over 50 years of experience and, since starting out with one showroom, has expanded its products and services. Its showrooms and factories span nationwide, and its services cover all areas of England, Scotland and Wales.
The company’s British-made products are durable and manufactured to a high standard. Its double glazing windows scrappage scheme could save homeowners around £1,000 if they purchase energy-efficient windows and recycle their old ones.
There are very few companies that offer all three frame materials – aluminium, timber and uPVC – with Anglian being one of them. Its double glazing windows come in a variety of styles, types and finishes, and Anglian receives 3.9 out of five stars from customers on Trustpilot.
Read our full Anglian Home Improvements review.
Safestyle
It should be noted that on 30 October 2023, H.P.A.S Limited (trading as Safestyle UK) filed for formal administration, and customers are now being served by Anglian.
Safestyle is a well-known windows manufacturer that specialises in crafting uPVC windows and doors. The company has over 30 years of experience installing its products across England and Wales. Its UK-based state-of-the-art factory manufactures energy-efficient windows that come in a wide range of styles, as well as different glass types and finishes.
Safestyle offers a sustainability scheme, where it recycles customers’ old windows and repurposes them as much as possible, with customers receiving up to £100 off their order for each window or door it recycles. Its pricing is competitive and, where applicable, Safestyle offers a like-for-like price promise that means you most likely won’t find a cheaper product or service elsewhere.
Safestyle has good customer service and receives a Trustpilot score of 4.1. It offers various financing options, such as a buy now, pay later scheme, a two-year interest-free payment plan and a low-interest-rate loan.
Read our full Safestyle review.
Everest
Everest is an industry leader and one of the largest windows manufacturers in the UK. The company offers a diverse product range, which includes windows, doors and conservatories. Everest crafts high-quality double glazing windows featuring energy-efficiency and noise-reducing options.
Its local consultants cover England, Scotland and Wales, and the company has a Trustpilot score of 4.4 out of five.
Everest offers low-rate financing options, as well as free upgrades to triple glazing. Products have a 10- or 20-year warranty, or for an additional fee, lifetime cover, which protects against condensation, faulty products and installation. All of its guarantees are transferable.
Read our full Everest review.
Crystal Windows & Doors
Crystal Windows & Doors is a family-owned business offering a wide range of home improvement products, including windows, doors and conservatories. It offers attentive customer service and high-quality products, and has become one of the leading home improvement companies in the South East of England.
Crystal’s diverse range of products are energy efficient and feature a wide range of decorative glass options. Crystal supplies a 10-year, no-quibble guarantee for parts and labour.
The company is customer-focused and provides a personalised process supporting customers from initial consultation right through to aftercare. Crystal receives good customer reviews and scores 4.7 out of five on Trustpilot.
Crystal is an Essex-based installer, servicing Essex, Hertfordshire, Kent and surrounding areas.
Which double glazing provider offers the best level of customer service?
The double glazing windows installers featured in our guide all present a good level of customer service. However, to determine which company has the best service is more of an individual preference. It mainly depends on individual customer experiences.
Customer service green flags to look for
- Responsive customer service personnel
- Support before and during installation, and after-sales service
- Professionalism
- Quality communication that is useful and informational
Our researchers found that Everest and Safestyle have excellent customer service, with both scoring highly on Trustpilot. We’ve read hundreds of customer reviews and found that the two installers have been praised for responsive customer support before, during and after installation. South East-based Crystal Windows & Doors also demonstrated good customer service, with quick installations and a knowledgeable customer service team on hand.
Top tips for finding the best double glazing companies near you
The best place to start your search for a double glazing installer in your local area is to simply search for “double glazing installer near me” using a well-known search engine. Depending on where you live, you could be spoilt for choice, or your options might be limited. Using our map below provides you with free quotes, tailored to your area.
You might find it useful to search local business listings or local directories for double glazing companies. Online directories can help you narrow your search to one specific location. It’s important to be careful when selecting an installer; ideally, the company should be approved by the Fenestration Self-Assessment Scheme (Fensa). This is a government-authorised scheme that monitors building regulation compliance for windows and doors. A certificate also means your installation will be registered with your local authority, which is a legal requirement, and also acts as proof that your guarantee is insured. The FENSA website has a search tool that allows you to enter your postcode in order to find local approved installers.
Even though we now live in a digital-orientated world, you can’t beat word of mouth. You could contact friends, family or neighbours to find out which installer they have used in the past. If they live in the same area, this is especially useful for sourcing a local installer. It’s also a good way to hear first-hand experiences, which can be useful when trying to gauge a company’s reputation.
Though a lot of us are privy to online shopping, in-person experiences can prove especially useful. If you have a local hardware or DIY store nearby, chances are they might have a working relationship with local windows installers. Most likely, if they do have a partnership with an installer, it will be a reputable and trustworthy company, and the relationship probably spans many years.
How to contact local double glazing installers
There are various ways to contact local double glazing installers. Whichever you choose will come down to personal preference, or certain companies might have a preferred method. Here are all the ways you might consider contacting your local installer.
Using our quote form
The easiest way to get in touch with installers in your area is to fill out our quote form. We’ll match you and your requirements with double glazing companies that serve your postcode, and they’ll contact you to start the quote process.
Contact via website
Most installers, local or not, will have their own website, so this is the best place to find contact details. Typically, websites will contain a “contact us” page – this should give you access to the company’s communication channels. Some will provide a phone number or email address or have a fillable contact form. If you decide to fill in the form, you’ll likely be contacted by someone from the company to discuss your queries. The downside here is that they may contact you at an unsuitable time if it is via phone.
Contact via phone
This is probably the most direct line of communication. Though you may need to navigate an automated service to speak to a human, there will always be a human at the end of the process, unlike with online chatbots. Most likely, the company’s phone number will be listed on their website; if it’s not, you should check an online business directory.
Contact via social media
Most companies are listed on social media platforms. LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter) are all widely used social media platforms where you can connect via direct messages or leave comments on a company’s posts.
Visit the company
You might choose to visit the installer in person. This is convenient if they have an office or showroom that’s accessible to you. An in-person visit will put you face-to-face with a member of the sales team, and this can help some customers discuss their requirements. However, be careful not to get sucked into any sales tactics – you don’t need to make any decisions on the day.
Double glazing companies FAQs
Double glazing has an average lifespan of 15 to 20 years – as a general rule of thumb, this is when you should consider installing new double glazing. However, double-glazed windows can last much longer than this, but their efficiency will start to decrease and could cause your energy bills to increase.
Tell-tale signs that your double-glazing needs replacing:
- Noticeable draughts coming from your windows
- Condensation forming in between the panes
- Water leaks from the outside into your home
- Visible cracks or chips in your window frame
- Difficulty opening and closing your windows
uPVC double glazing windows are one of the most popular types thanks to their durability and affordable pricing. Most windows installers offer this material type, while other installers, such as Safestyle and Crystal Home Improvements, only offer uPVC. Choosing a double glazing window installer is an individual preference and you should consider cost and company reputation when making your decision.
Technically, anyone can install double glazing windows. It’s even possible to DIY install your windows if you have the knowledge to do so, but with that comes a set of problems. If your windows are not installed according to FENSA regulations, you will need to pay for your own building control inspection prior to installation. You should also bear in mind that without a FENSA certificate, if you decide to sell your home you could face consequences. It is a legal requirement to have a building registration certificate to show that your windows are legally compliant.
There are three main types of double glazing window frame materials – timber, aluminium and uPVC – with the latter being the most durable. uPVC is well-known for its longevity and durability. Timber frames are the most expensive but are excellent at retaining heat. Aluminium frames can last a very long time and are more affordable than timber frames. However, their heat retention is not as good as uPVC and timber.
Rachel Sadler is a seasoned journalist and content creator with a multi-year track record in both print and digital media.
Rachel is an expert in renewable energy, particularly solar panel solutions for UK households. She investigates the most effective solar panels for domestic use, emphasising cost savings and the potential for households to produce their own electricity. Her interests extend to home insulation, specifically the role of windows in enhancing energy efficiency, aesthetic appeal, and cost reduction. She delves into the best materials for durability, maintenance, and affordability, crafting informative guides and articles.
