Frequently Asked Questions

Have questions about our window and door services? You're in the right place!

At Westend Windows, we’re proud to offer expert double glazing, window replacements, door installations, and glazing repairs across the North East and North Yorkshire.

Below, you'll find answers to our most frequently asked questions about everything from misted unit repairs & condensation, to composite doors, lead times, aftercare, and pricing.

If you can’t find what you’re looking for, just get in touch - our friendly team is always happy to help.

FAQ's

QUESTION 1:

What areas do Westend Windows cover?

We provide expert window and door services across the entire North East and North Yorkshire region, including—but not limited to—Darlington, Durham, Newcastle upon Tyne, Middlesbrough, Stockton-on-Tees, Hartlepool, Sunderland, Gateshead, Consett, Bishop Auckland, Barnard Castle, Newton Aycliffe, Richmond, Northallerton, Yarm, Seaham, Washington, Chester-le-Street, and surrounding towns and villages.
Thanks to our long-standing partnerships with insurance companies, we frequently work in Newcastle, Durham, and the wider region on fire, flood, and damage repairs, giving us a strong presence and local knowledge in these areas.
We also value our loyal customers beyond these regions—over the years, we have travelled to the Lake District, Cambridge, and further afield to continue providing the high-quality service they trust. Wherever you are in the North East, North Yorkshire, or beyond, Westend Windows is ready to help with your window and door needs.

QUESTION 2:

Do you offer free quotes for windows and doors?

Yes, we offer free, no-obligation quotes for all window, door, and glazing installations or repairs—including replacements, upgrades, and custom jobs. We’re happy to visit your property, take accurate measurements, and help you choose the best options to suit your style, needs, and budget. You can request a total quote, an itemised breakdown, or a phased quote—whatever works best for you.
As a family-run business with no commission-based salespeople, there’s absolutely no pressure—just honest advice and a smooth, stress-free experience from start to finish.

QUESTION 3:

Do you use commission-based salespeople?

No. At Westend Windows, we don’t believe in high-pressure, commission-based sales tactics. We're a family-run business built on honesty, quality, and word of mouth. When you speak to us, you’re dealing with knowledgeable team members who genuinely care about finding the right solution for your home—not chasing a sales target.

QUESTION 4:

Who installs your windows and doors? Are they sub-contractors?

All of our fitters are directly employed by Westend Windows—not third-party subcontractors. That means they’re trained to our high standards, take real pride in their work, and represent our name with care and professionalism. You’ll always know who’s coming to your home, and you can count on a consistent, respectful, and tidy installation every time.

QUESTION 5:

What types of doors do you install?

We offer a wide range of high-quality doors to suit all styles of homes, including:

uPVC doors (standard and flush sash)
Aluminium doors (residential and flush sash)
Composite doors and solid timber-core composite doors
French doors, patio sliders, bi-folds, and crittall-style aluminium or steel doors
Wood and timber doors, including Accoya options for exceptional durability

We stay up to date with the latest trends and popular finishes, offering everything from traditional to ultra-modern designs. Even if you don't see a specific style on our website, there's a good chance we already offer it - or we can source it for you.

QUESTION 6:

Can you repair misted or broken double glazing units?

Yes. We specialise in repairing failed or misted double glazing units, saving you the cost of full window replacements. We can replace the sealed glass units while keeping your existing frames if they're still in good condition.

QUESTION 7:

How long does it take to install new windows or doors?

Most window and door installations are completed within 1–2 days, depending on the size and number of units. We'll always provide an estimated timescale during your quote, and we aim to keep disruption to a minimum.

QUESTION 8:

Do your products come with a guarantee?

Yes. All of our window and door installations come with a guarantee for your peace of mind. We work with trusted manufacturers and high-quality materials to ensure long-lasting performance.
Most of our frames—whether in stocked white or stocked foiled finishes—come with a 10-year guarantee, provided we’ve carried out the installation ourselves. Full details will always be clearly outlined in your quotation.
In addition, all residential window installations and doors with over 50% glass include a CERTASS installation certificate and a 10-year insurance-backed guarantee, giving you added confidence and compliance assurance.

QUESTION 9:

Are your windows energy efficient?

Absolutely. The standard uPVC windows we supply and install are A-rated energy-efficient frames featuring multiple airflow chambers for excellent insulation.
Our standard double glazed units include A-rated Planitherm Total+ coated glass, filled with argon gas and fitted with a black warm-edge Swiss spacer bar—designed to reduce heat loss and improve your home’s comfort.
We also offer optional upgrades, such as Planitherm 1 glass and triple glazing, to further enhance energy efficiency. We’re happy to discuss these options during your consultation to find the best fit for your needs and budget.

QUESTION 10:

Do you install windows in period or heritage properties?

Yes, we offer specialist glazing solutions for period homes, cottages, and listed buildings. This includes woodgrain uPVC frames, traditional finishes, and slimline glazing options to preserve the look of your property.

QUESTION 11:

Can you match new windows or doors to my existing ones?

In most cases, yes. We’ll work with you to match the colour, style, and finish of your existing windows or doors wherever possible, ensuring a consistent and high-quality appearance.

QUESTION 12:

Why choose Westend Windows?

We're a local, trusted team with years of experience in window and door installation across Darlington and the North East. We offer competitive pricing, honest advice, no pushy sales tactics, and a commitment to quality—from your first quote to final installation.

QUESTION 13:

Do you offer custom sizes and bespoke designs for windows and doors?

Yes, we do! We can supply and install custom-sized windows and doors to perfectly fit your home’s unique requirements. Whether you want traditional sash windows, modern designs, or bespoke features like stained glass or special hardware, we’ll work with you to bring your vision to life.

QUESTION 14:

How do I maintain my new windows and doors?

Maintenance is simple! Regularly clean your frames and glass with a soft microfibre cloth and water only. Check seals and hinges for any signs of wear. Always avoid abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals. We’re happy to provide detailed aftercare advice with every installation to help keep your windows and doors looking and performing their best for years.

QUESTION 15:

How should I clean coloured, foiled, or sprayed windows and doors?

For coloured, foiled, sprayed uPVC or aluminium windows and doors, it’s very important not to use any chemical cleaners or abrasive products. These can cause fading, damage the finish, and void your warranty.We recommend cleaning with a clean, particle-free microfiber cloth and warm water only for regular maintenance. For stubborn dirt or marks, for some products you can use a very mild and heavily diluted solution of soapy water, provided it is quickly applied and immediately rinsed with clean water to remove any residue.Always ensure your window cleaners are aware of this, as using harsh chemicals can lead to permanent damage and loss of warranty protection. Simple, gentle cleaning keeps your windows and doors looking their best for years to come. Always ask for a tailored maintenance guide for your specific products to ensure the correct aftercare is applied.

QUESTION 16:

Do you install windows in period or heritage properties?

QUESTION 17:

Can you match new windows or doors to my existing ones?

In most cases, yes. We’ll work with you to match the colour, style, and finish of your existing windows or doors wherever possible, ensuring a consistent and high-quality appearance.

QUESTION 18:

Why choose Westend Windows?

QUESTION 19:

Why is there condensation on my windows?

Condensation can appear on windows for different reasons, depending on where it forms:

On the inside (room-facing side): This is usually caused by high humidity inside your home—especially in kitchens, bathrooms, or bedrooms—and is not a fault with the window.
On the outside (external pane): This actually means your double glazing is working! It shows that the warm air inside isn’t escaping, which is a sign of good insulation.
Inside the glass unit (between the panes): This indicates a failed sealed unit. The insulating layer has broken down and needs replacing. We can swap just the glass unit without changing the whole window.

QUESTION 20:

What does it mean if I have condensation between the panes of glass?

If you see misting or condensation inside the double glazing—between the two panes—it means the sealed unit has failed. This happens when the airtight seal breaks down, letting moisture in. It’s not something that can be wiped away or fixed with a dehumidifier.
At Westend Windows, we can replace the failed unit with a new energy-efficient one, often without needing to replace the full window frame.

QUESTION 21:

Can you preserve my original stained or leaded glass?

Yes, we offer an encapsulation service for original leaded or stained glass. If you have beautiful existing glass that you’d like to keep, we can carefully remove, clean, and repair it—then encapsulate it inside a new double glazed unit for added warmth and efficiency. This way, your windows or doors can be upgraded without losing the character and charm of your original glass.
Alternatively, we can recreate your leaded design on a new double glazed unit if the original can't be reused.

QUESTION 22:

Do you offer colour, style, and design consultations?

Yes! At Westend Windows, we understand that choosing the right windows and doors is about more than just function — it’s about enhancing your home’s style and curb appeal. We offer personalised consultations to help you explore colour options, finishes, styles, and hardware choices. Whether you want to see visual samples in person or receive digital mock-ups, we guide you through every step to ensure your new windows and doors perfectly complement your home.

QUESTION 23:

Can you provide quotes from building plans and liaise with builders for new builds?

Absolutely. If you’re building a new home or undertaking a major renovation, we can provide accurate quotes directly from your architectural plans or drawings. We also work closely with builders and contractors to coordinate installations, making the process seamless for you. Whether you want to be hands-on or prefer to leave the project management to us, we tailor our service to suit your level of involvement.

QUESTION 24:

How can I prevent condensation and mould build-up inside my home around windows?

Condensation and mould often develop around windows when moisture from everyday activities builds up without adequate ventilation. To prevent this, try these tips:

Keep your home well-ventilated by opening windows regularly or using extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms.
Use trickle vents on your windows to allow constant airflow without losing too much heat.
Maintain a consistent indoor temperature to reduce the chances of cold surfaces where condensation forms.
Avoid drying clothes indoors near windows and wipe away any visible moisture promptly.
Consider upgrading to energy-efficient double or triple glazing with good seals, as these windows help reduce cold spots and moisture build-up.

If condensation or mould problems persist, Westend Windows can advise on the best window and ventilation solutions to improve your home’s comfort and air quality.

QUESTION 25:

Why is there condensation on my windows?

Condensation can appear on windows for different reasons, depending on where it forms:

On the inside (room-facing side): This is usually caused by high humidity inside your home—especially in kitchens, bathrooms, or bedrooms—and is not a fault with the window.
On the outside (external pane): This actually means your double glazing is working! It shows that the warm air inside isn’t escaping, which is a sign of good insulation.
Inside the glass unit (between the panes): This indicates a failed sealed unit. The insulating layer has broken down and needs replacing. We can swap just the glass unit without changing the whole window.

QUESTION 26:

Are trickle vents mandatory in new window installations?

Yes. Recent government building regulations require that all new windows include trickle vents to provide essential background ventilation. This helps reduce condensation and improves indoor air quality by allowing a small, constant flow of fresh air—even when windows are closed. At Westend Windows, all our installations comply fully with these regulations to keep your home safe and comfortable.

QUESTION 27:

Are you CERTASS or FENSA registered? What’s the difference?

We are CERTASS registered, which is a government-approved scheme for ensuring windows and doors meet current building regulations. You might have heard of FENSA—both CERTASS and FENSA are similar, widely recognised certifications that guarantee quality and compliance. Choosing a CERTASS-registered installer like Westend Windows means you’ll receive a certificate for your local authority, giving you peace of mind and helping with property resale.

QUESTION 28:

What are your payment terms?

We ask for a 25% deposit to secure your order, with the remaining balance payable on completion of the installation. We accept payment by bank transfer, cheque, or cash. Our straightforward payment terms are designed to make the process smooth and hassle-free, giving you full confidence in your investment.