Whether it's replacement windows, a new front door, or even a new conservatory or orangery that you're considering, you're making an important choice.  There's a fair chunk of money being invested, so you want to be certain that you're buying something that's built to last.  And if it's built to last, you need to be certain that you'll be as happy with it in ten years' time as you are today.

We've put together a few answers to questions that we often hear from our customers.  But don't forget that we're always happy to hear from you.  If the answers you need aren't hear, then please contact us and we'll be delighted to help.

Q: Where are Elitis products made?

A: All Elitis products are British made, to the very highest standards.  We conform with all relevant British Standards for safety, environment, security and enrgy efficiency.

Q:How do I judge a good installer? 

A: OK, let’s start with a difficult one! Probably the best criterion is what other customers think of them. Try asking for references from previous customers. Many installers will show you letters from satisfied customers; look at them carefully to ensure that they’re genuine. Ideally, you should be able to contact the author of one or more of the letter writers. Bear in mind, though, that this privilege must be treated with respect – you probably wouldn’t appreciate being telephoned twice a week by people who wanted to know about us! An Elitis installer working in your road will often drop a postcard through your letterbox. Don’t throw it away; if you decide in a year or so that you want to replace your windows your neighbour can provide an on-the-spot reference.

Q: Should I stick with the larger companies? 

A: Some companies have become household names. Their brand is important to them and they’re unlikely to allow it to be smudged by criticism of low quality or poor service. But don’t ignore the smaller company; without the advantage of multi-million pound advertising budgets, the small concern often relies on personal service to level the playing field. Size of organisation should be the least of your criteria for making your decision. It’s more important to judge the commitment and honesty of the person you’re talking to.

Q: What quality of products will be used – and how can I check? 

A: This is a crucial question. Ask about the manufacturer of the products that the installer fits. They should be approved to British Standard (But read the item below about construction), and fitted using purpose-made fixings. Many of the better quality products carry a recognisable brand; Elitis windows and doors have an identifying sticker inside frame, plus a serial-numbered tag on the handle. On completion of the installation, you’ll receive a wallet to keep these tags in; keep them safe – if you sell the house in the future, they’re proof to your buyer that you chose the ultimate quality product.

Q: What warranty is provided? 

A: The better manufacturers guarantee their products against defects in manufacture, and this is certainly reassuring when you’re spending so much money. But you should understand that the manufacturer can’t control the quality of the installation itself, so you need to feel confident that the installer will look after you if there are any problems. As an approved Elitis installer we adhere to a strict customer care standard, and Elitis products are backed by a ten year warranty to reassure you on this matter.

Q: Do British Standards guarantee that my windows are properly constructed?
 
A: The British Standards quality mark means that a manufacturer has produced products that comply to certain criteria. In the case of PVCu windows, for example, it means that the relevant areas of plastic are reinforced internally with steel. Unfortunately, it doesn’t guarantee that the windows you actually buy are built to this standard. This is perfectly legal, but it can mean that you aren’t buying quite the standard that you might have expected. Some manufacturers offer this British Standards reinforcement as an optional extra, while some are distressingly silent on the whole issue. Every Elitis product is made following the full British Standards specification, and our advice is that this is what you should insist on.

Q: How secure will my installation be?

A: Good quality PVCu windows and doors are highly resistant to forced entry. Ask to see the manufacturer’s brochure; there should be a good level of detail about how the products are secured. Features such as internal beading and shielded locking mechanisms make it extremely difficult for an intruder to effect entry. For additional peace of mind, ask about the police-supported Secured By Design initiative. Secured By Design is an approval scheme that ensures the ultimate standard in crime prevention. The additional cost is tiny, and represents a very worthwhile investment for vulnerable areas such as downstairs windows and doors or windows that open onto flat roofs.

Q: How will my possessions and decorations be protected? 

A: Elitis installers take care to cause minimum disruption, and to leave your home clean and tidy when we’ve finished. But installing windows and doors, or building a new conservatory are substantial building tasks, producing a certain degree of temporary disorder - and a considerable amount of dust! Your installer should put down carpet protection and cover your furniture. A great deal of inconvenience can be avoided if you prepare correctly – ask your Elitis installer to provide you with an advice leaflet.