WITH winter on its way, Ayrshire-based Wilson Windows has seen a rise in inquiries about double glazing and new doors.

Demand is high but the family firm, which serves the West of Scotland, has streamlined its order, delivery and installation process so that new orders can be installed as quickly as possible.

This includes a unique live quoting system and a commitment to stick to the job – whether it is an installation or a repair – until it is finished.

The commitment to honesty, efficiency and quality has seen the company grow exponentially since it was founded ten years ago by Darren Wilson, who worked for a window manufacturer and saw a need for a trustworthy, competent, window and door installation and repair service.

The firm’s 20 strong team of expert engineers and fitters have a vast amount of experience who work hard to deliver a service in line with the company values.

Wilson Windows can supply, fit and repair all types of glass and are experts in installing new UPVC and composite products.

“The business has just grown arms and legs,” said Charlie Wilson, whose father Craig also works for the firm. “I think that is because we focus on making sure our processes and procedures are bullet proof and are carried out flawlessly.”

After the initial call, the customer is booked in for a home appointment when either the installation sales representative, William, or lead engineer, Craig, visits to find out what is required. They are then able to put together a price on the spot using a combination of their knowledge and advanced technology for a quote.

“Whether you want new windows or want them fixed we can put a quote together on site through live pricing  -  we are quite unique in the way we quote, as it is all built into the software as well as the salesman’s own knowledge,” said Charlie.

“That gives us an edge because the price is honest.  If you are getting a live price there is no way to manipulate or inflate the cost, again keeping it fair for the customer.”

If the customer agrees the price, a surveyor, with over 20 years’ experience in the trade, is booked to take the precise measurements and find out what finishes are required, both inside and out.

At this survey he will draft a contract, along with a visual of each window and the details about its finish and ancillaries like hinges and handles.

Once a deposit is paid the firm is then able to go ahead and make the order for new windows or doors.

“We can put an order in after just two visits which helps speed up the process as the long lead time you get with double glazing is normally because of the supplier, as opposed to how quickly the double glazing installer can fit the windows for you,” said Charlie.

“We can’t control the lead time but we can control how quickly we get the order in and how quickly the work can be carried out and that is what we strive to do.”

When the order arrives back at Wilson Windows it is checked over thoroughly to make sure there is no damage and all the pieces have been supplied, including the correct amount of hinges and handles.

“It means that if there is any damage or anything is missing we already know about it and a replacement is on order,” Charlie said.

Once a date has been arranged with the householder, the installation team will carry out the work and come back promptly if necessary.

“We don’t do split jobs and try to work somewhere else in between,” said Charlie.

One of the firm’s mantras is “no fuss, no mess”, meaning the job will be carried out efficiently and cleanly with no mess left.

And if the team are called out to survey damaged doors or windows they will not automatically say they must be replaced.

“Our first instinct isn’t to replace it because it is broken - our first instinct is to see if can we get it fixed without replacing it and whether that’s worth it,” Charlie said.

“We understand that not everyone is in a position to replace a window so even if it is not in a great condition but will last a year or two more with a repair then we can give the householder that option. It might only last a few years but could last until they have got the funds to replace it.”

Energy bills are at the forefront of many householders’ minds and the firm has seen an increase in inquiries from customers wondering if double glazing or more windproof doors will help to conserve the heat in their homes.

“The answer is that, yes, they will,” said Charlie. “Double glazing will also help to reduce the effect of any outside noise and increase the value of your home.”

www.wilsonwindows.co.uk