Window quotes: 10 points to check before you choose

You have received several quotes for your windows and the prices vary widely? This is common. Two proposals can look identical yet describe very different products, services and finishes.

Comparing only the final price can therefore be misleading. Here are the ten points to check so you can compare quotes on an equal footing and choose with full knowledge.

1. The dimensions and the number of opening sashes

A serious quote specifies, for each window, its dimensions and its type of opening: fixed frame, one or two sashes, tilt-and-turn, French door or sliding door. For an equal surface area, a fixed frame and a tilt-and-turn window have neither the same price nor the same complexity.

2. The brand and range of the profile

The profile forms the structure of the window. The quote should state the exact brand and system, not a vague "PVC" or "aluminium". Two ranges of the same material can offer very different performance and finishes.

3. The Uw value of the complete window

The Uw value expresses the thermal insulation of the entire window, frame and glazing included. It is the most relevant indicator for comparing two proposals. The lower it is, the better the window insulates.

4. The Ug value and the make-up of the glazing

The Ug value concerns the glazing alone. The quote should also specify the make-up: double or triple glazing, thicknesses, gas fill, any treatments (acoustic, safety, solar control). A "double glazing" with no detail allows no comparison whatsoever.

5. The hardware and the level of security

Handles, hinges, locking points and any security reinforcements affect the price, the ease of use and the durability of the settings. A precise quote states the type of hardware and the level of security offered.

6. The colour and finishes

White PVC is generally the most affordable finish. A colour, a wood-effect foil, a different colour inside and out, or an aluminium cladding add a supplement. Glazing bars, sills and trims must also appear on the quote.

7. The fitting method and the sealing of the joints

The fitting is as decisive as the window itself. The quote should describe the fitting method and how air- and water-tightness between the frame and the building is handled. A poorly executed fit cancels out the performance of even the best window.

8. Removal and disposal of the old windows

Removing the old joinery, taking it away and recycling it represents real work. Check whether it is included: its absence can explain part of the gap between two quotes.

9. The interior and exterior finishes

After fitting, finishing work is often needed: re-pointing, sills, thresholds, interior touch-ups. A quote that includes them avoids nasty surprises compared with one that has simply left them out.

10. Lead times, VAT and guarantees

Finally, check the stated lead times, the VAT rate applied (6% under conditions for a private home more than ten years old, 21% otherwise) and the guarantees offered on the products as well as the fitting. Two quotes can only be compared on equivalent terms.

Why two "similar" quotes show different prices

A difference in price does not mean one quote is "too expensive" or the other "cheap". It most often reflects real differences: profile range, glazing make-up, hardware, quality of fitting, finishes included or not, handling of disposal, guarantees.

A lower price is only genuinely advantageous if the products and services being compared are equivalent. Conversely, a more detailed and slightly higher quote can turn out to be more economical once every element is taken into account.

Conclusion

Reading a window quote means checking that each proposal clearly describes the product, its performance (Uw, Ug), the hardware, the finishes, the fitting, the disposal and the guarantees. Only on these terms does the comparison become fair.

At Pulsar Windows, every quote is drawn up after a site visit and details all of these elements, with fitting carried out by our own team. Request your free, no-obligation quote in Brussels or in Flemish and Walloon Brabant.