Double glazing prices are guaranteed to stir up emotions, no one wants to pay over the odds and feel like they have been conned into spending more than they needed to, but most of us don’t want to be left with worthless guarantees and work left unfinished because we paid too little.

Double glazing prices are not regulated like gas or electric, double glazing companies are free to set whatever price they like for double glazed windows, doors and other home improvements.

Whilst there are minimum standards for the thermal efficiency of replacement windows, companies can chose how to comply with the regulations. Some offer insulated frames, others rely upon special qualities of the glass and the coatings that make it very energy efficient.

Each company uses different profiles (sections) to make their replacement windows, some use standard one that anyone can buy, and others have their own bespoke designs for an extra special appearance.

Hardware, handles, hinges and other components also affect double glazing prices, better quality components generally mean the prices for the double glazed windows are higher, but could be seen as a good investment, if they last 20/30 years without much attention.

All products must comply with the “minimum technical compliance” of the building regulations and they must be fit for purpose, however many companies chose to make products that exceed the basic minimums.

It is natural that double glazing prices are higher for an “enhanced security product” one that been tested and which complies with BS5750, the minimum needed to gain Secured by Design the Polices preferred standard for security. Just as safety glass, (toughened or laminated), acoustic glass or self cleaning glass will all add to the costs of double glazed products over standard annealed glass.

In addition to the components that make the windows doors or conservatory, double glazing prices are also affected by the extra services some companies chose to offer, like protection with membership to trade associations. Some window companies voluntarily belong to these association or federations that govern the industry, (and whose members must act in accordance with their standards), whilst others don’t offer any such protection, (or claim to be a member but aren’t).

Lastly remember there are two types of sales person, that are likely to affect the price you pay for your replacement windows, those that are paid a salary by the company they work for and those that are only paid upon results, ie commission only sales people. It is not uncommon for salespeople working on commission to inflate the prices, hoping you'll agree to them so they make a better commission. They want you to decide while they are still with you fearing that you will use someone else if they leave without the order.

Other companies will measure your windows, show you examples of the products they think best your property, then provide you with a written quotation with the double glazing prices, allowing you to decide in your own time. You should never feel pressured into making a purchase.

So, there are lots of things that affect double glazing prices, lots to consider. You need to decide what features you want on your windows and which you don’t, see examples of work, check the claims a company makes are true before you make the final decision.

Little wonder then that prices for double glazing and double glazed products vary so widely.