Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the lead time from date of order?
A: We work on a lead time of 2 to 3 weeks from your date of order and deposit paid.
Q: Can you quote off my architects plans?
A: Definately, you may bring them in or we could meet on site. We also generate quotes from window / door schedules if emailed to us.
Q: What if I choose to install the items myself?
A: This is totally your choice, off course. Certain items are not so difficult to install if you have the necessary skills. Please note however that with certain items like stackaway doors and hinged doors, it is crucial to have them professionally installed to get the setting and alignment exactly right. Should you wish to install these items yourself, we can unfortunately offer a guarantee on the doors sagging or not operating properly.
Q: Do you require a deposit on orders?
A: Yes, we require a deposit of 70% of the total amount upon acceptance of the quote and the final 30% upon completing the installation. For supply only items we require 70% deposit upon acceptance of the quotation and the balance before delivery or collection.
Q: Can I pay by credit card?
A: Unfortunately we only accept eft or cash payments.
Q: Why install aluminium, instead of steel or wood?
A: Aluminium offers many advantages in home, office, and industrial designs. Here is a brief comparison of each material’s pros and cons:
Wood
Pros: visually inviting, can be sourced locally
Cons: Requires frequent maintenance, vulnerable to moisture, heavy, vulnerable to pests
Steel
Pros: Inexpensive, long warranties, less maintenance than wood
Cons: Vulnerable to rust, can be scratched and dented
Aluminium
Pros: Lightweight, low maintenance, resists corrosion
Cons: Easily dented, difficult to repair
Q: What is the difference between tophung and sidehung window openings?
A: Hinges that opens from the bottom up, projecting out, is top hung or hinges on the sides, which opens out sideways is side hung. Top hung windows are a good option for practicality as they can be left open in bad weather to allow for fresh air while reducing draughts. Side hung windows allows for more ventilation and unobstructed views because it opens along a vertical line towards the opposite side but would need to be closed during bad weather.
Q: How do I replace my old wooden or steel frames with aluminium?
One of the first concerns that is raised when thinking about replacing with aluminium is the effort and damage to the structure to replace existing wooden or steel frame windows. Our staff are trained to remove the frames with as little damage possible. We either plaster or apply painter’s mate afterwards to finish off. Painting is not included in finishing off.
Q: Can I replace my existing door with aluminium?
A: Yes, much like windows, aluminium doors can easily be fitted to replace old wood doors without damaging your property. The existing door’s frame is used to minimise structural damage, and an aluminium door with the correctly placed fittings are used while any exposed metal is covered with an aluminium channel that provides a neat, clean look from every angle.
Q: How should I care for my Aluminium windows and doors?
A: Once or twice per year we recommend cleaning and oiling visible moving metal parts, particularly door locks and window hinges. Do not use liquid detergent in the water when cleaning the seals as it attacks and degrades them. Use a small amount of cream cleanser in warm water on a cloth or sponge to clean. Do not use acetone or acetone based cleaning solutions. Keep sliding patio door tracks brushed clean of mud, grit and dust. It is not recommended that you lubricate the track because that may cause an accumulation of foreign particles which may make it harder to clean. If you have a powder coated colour on your aluminium, clean with a damp cloth, no detergent should be used.
Q: Does the sun cause fading?
Our Aluminium products do not fade.
Colours – A variety of powder coated colours or natural anodized are available.
Q: Do you offer a guarantee on manufactured items?
A: Yes, our the aluminium is guaranteed for 10 years and a 1 year guarantee on hardware.