INSIDER ADVICE COLUMN

Independent Network from VEKA

New windows and doors can often be fitted in less time than you may think – with the right team, long gone are the days when it would take weeks to fit new windows.

The Independent Network is made up of around 13 Scottish member companies who between them have transformed the living spaces of homeowners nationwide with superb quality VEKA uPVC products and craftsmanship.

These local installers have worked with thousands of Scottish homeowners to renovate, improve and extend their properties to create the home of their dreams.

Here Malcolm Sweeney, Director, from Balhousie Glazing, a member of Independent Network, shares some of their INsider knowledge when it comes to choosing the best solutions for your home.

What are the benefits of using a local installer that is part of the Independent Network? All the Independent Network installers demonstrate a commitment to quality by using industry leading products from the worldrenowned VEKA Group. These window, door and conservatory systems are CE marked and come with an insurance backed guarantee. All the installers are regularly audited, giving you peace of mind and security in the knowledge that your installer is a quality craftsman. What are the top tips that you would give someone looking around for suppliers before they decide on an installation company? Visit a local showroom so you can see and feel the quality of the installation and systems and talk to one of the team who will give you advice that you need before making your decision. Check out the longevity of the company, its reputation locally and trust your instincts. Get a full quotation and the specifics of anything that is recommended in writing, that way when you are comparing installers you will be completely sure that you are comparing the same systems – there are massive differences in the quality of the products and the price. Talk to your friends and neighbours and other trusted tradesmen to see who they have used and who they recommend. What are the main benefits of replacing your old windows and doors? Aside from the aesthetics of having new windows and doors fitted to your home, you will benefit from up to date security features with the advancement of new technology and design. Your home will be warmer and enjoy lower energy bills and often a reduction in noise. What surprises your customers most about choosing new windows and doors? Often it is the choice. Our customers come to our showroom with one fixed idea about what they want, but when they have a discussion about what they need – they realise the choice is huge, from different colours to designs that fit with every house type. Our installers don’t follow up with pushy sales calls, they provide design hints and tips and make trusted recommendations backed up by years of experience. New windows and doors can often be fitted in less time than you may think – with the right team, long gone are the days when it would take weeks to fit new windows. Now the disruption to your home is minimal and we offer a white glove service that means we pride ourselves on leaving your home as tidy as we find it when we arrived.

Stewart Morris, fitter from Balhousie Glazing