How can I tell if my door or window will be installed professionally?

We bought a great door or window, but after installation we realise that it lets draughts or dampness through. How is this possible? It has probably been installed incorrectly.

If you are not a technical expert or are unfamiliar with certain aspects, it can be difficult to judge whether a door or window has been installed correctly, especially given that – unlike a mobile phone or vacuum cleaner – it can only be tried following installation.

But there are certain points that help you make a careful investment, indicating whether installation will be carried out in compliance with quality regulations and standards.

1. Take a look at the retailer or producer of doors and windows you intend buying from: punctuality, courtesy, a clean and tidy showroom are important aspects. It is essential to choose a company able to deliver a complete service – measurement, design, installation, after sales service – and to guarantee the quality of the service as well as of the products on sale.
   To understand whether a company complies with certain quality criteria, check if it has UNI EN ISO 9001 certification – this means that its quality system is managed according to precise standards for all processes, including installation.
   If you use a retailer, it is a good idea to check out the producer of the doors and windows, perhaps by visiting his website.
   EKU, for example, does not make finished doors and windows – it makes aluminium profiles and designs the systems1. But it supplies information, catalogues, manuals and brochures to producers of doors and windows, and it also organises training courses to ensure that they give their clients – that’s you – the best products and services.
2. Ask the company you are dealing with whether they install directly or use teams of external installers. Will installation be carried out by specialised, trained staff? Do the installers have any certification?
3. Check the estimate carefully, ensuring that it contains and highlights the characteristics and certified performance of the doors, windows and glazing, the energy performance calculation (the door and window fitter must supply this), CE marking, hardware and services offered (transport, installation, disposal of old doors and windows etc.). It should not merely list technical details, but also emphasise requirements and the relative benefits expected.
4. Of course, check the price, but don’t be fooled by estimates that are very low or too enticing. Quality is directly proportional to price. Compare prices on estimates for the same conditions offered.
5. Check guarantee conditions. Find out about the period of guarantee established by current legislation. Professional companies also offer additional written guarantees to confirm that certain characteristics or performance will last over even longer periods.