Direct Windows and Doors

Direct Windows and Doors: double glazing manufactured in Southampton

Direct Windows and Doors is a family-run business based in Southampton that manufactures and installs double glazing for homes in the city and nearby towns. The company states that it produces its windows and doors at its own factory in Southampton, which it says allows for a fast turnaround and competitive rates because it does not buy finished products from third parties. Its team is described as having 30 years of experience in the industry.

The company presents itself as a local manufacturer and installer, with a fabricating team that can produce bespoke double glazing units in a matter of days. It also runs a glass shop at the factory where it makes glass units and can supply mirrors and glass cut to size and shape for bespoke designs.

Windows, doors and conservatories

The product range covers windows, doors, conservatories and related roof and roofline work. The catalogue shown on the site includes the following lines:

• Windows: casement, bow and bay, sliding sash, aluminium, tilt and turn, French casement and flush sash.
• Doors: uPVC, composite, French, aluminium bi-fold and patio.
• Conservatories and orangeries.
• Roofs: aluminium roof lanterns, guttering, conservatory roofs, roofline, fascias and soffits.

Windows and doors are offered in aluminium or uPVC, both described as robust and excelling in thermal retention. The company says its profiles are made to be sturdy and durable, and that its double glazing is fitted as standard, with energy efficiency and internal strength highlighted.

Guarantees and registration

Direct Windows and Doors states that all its windows and doors come with a 10-year insurance-backed guarantee from Home Improvement Protection, in addition to a 10-year guarantee from the company itself. It is also a FENSA-registered installer, and its installations are regularly inspected by FENSA to ensure compliance. The company notes that the guarantee remains in effect if the property is sold, although it suggests informing FENSA of the new owners' names.

Survey, quote and installation process

The process begins with a free, no-obligation site survey, during which a professional surveyor discusses requirements with the customer. The company says it offers advice but leaves design decisions to the customer. A quote follows for the preferred design, and the company states that it works with the customer's budget and does not follow up or chase for sales. Once an order is confirmed, installation can take place within two weeks, depending on the number of windows and doors and whether existing windows need to be removed first. The company says most of its business comes from word-of-mouth referrals.

Repairs and additional services

According to the FAQ section, Direct Windows and Doors only repairs its own products. It also supplies extra window keys on request. For conservatories and orangeries, the company notes that planning permission may be required depending on size and roof pitch, and that this should be discussed with the local council or an architect.

Factory and local manufacturing

The factory in Southampton is open for viewing, according to the company. Manufacturing locally is presented as a way to reduce the carbon footprint by not importing materials, and the company describes its work as sustainable for this reason. The in-house team manufactures glass units for each customer, and the fabricating team has many years of experience.