If you’ve ever looked for new windows or doors, you’ve probably seen it happen: one quote looks amazing and almost too good to be true, while another seems more expensive. Naturally, your first thought is, “Why would anyone pay more for what looks like the same job?”
In reality, that “cheap” quote often comes with a catch. In the glazing industry, it’s surprisingly common for companies to give low quotes upfront to win the work, only for hidden costs to appear later. And that’s where the trouble begins.
Why low window quotes can be misleading
A quote should give you a clear idea of the total cost but sadly many companies treat it more like a marketing tool. Many people will have experienced this:
- A customer asks for a quote.
- The company provides a very low figure to grab attention.
- The customer feels committed and schedules a survey.
- Extra costs appear after the survey, sometimes for things the customer assumed were already included.
By this point, most people feel stuck. They’ve taken time off work, mentally committed to the project, and now face additional charges. The “cheap” quote suddenly isn’t so cheap but they’re now too far in to back out.
Common hidden costs in window and door quotes
It’s frustrating because these extra costs are usually for things that are essential to completing the job safely and properly. Some common items often left out include:
- Scaffold hire
- Disposal of old frames and glass
- Internal finishing like plastering or trim
- Structural supports such as lintels
These aren’t optional add-ons, they’re basics needed to complete a job. Leaving them out of the initial quote might make the number look really attractive, but it just pushes the real cost further down the line.
Why fully inclusive window quotes save money
At Birmingham Glass, we take a different approach and price the job properly from the start. Our quotes may look higher at first, but they reflect the actual, complete cost, including all the extras that often catch people by surprise.
A properly priced quote will account for:
- Any access or scaffolding needed
- Waste removal
- Structural requirements
- Proper internal and external finishing
Once you add up all the “hidden extras” that get tacked on by other companies, a well-thought-out quote often turns out to be the better deal.
What is the real cost of “cheap” window quotes?
The problem with a quote that looks low on paper isn’t just money, it’s stress. Hidden extras can bring:
- Unexpected bills that blow your budget
- Delays while new costs are approved
- Arguments over what’s included or assumed
- General frustration and loss of trust in the installer
By contrast, a transparent quote avoids all of that, giving you peace of mind and certainty from the start.
How to compare window and door quotes effectively
When you’re comparing quotes for windows or doors, it’s tempting to just look at the final number and pick the cheapest one. But the truth is, that number doesn’t always tell the full story.
Here’s how to make sure you’re really comparing apples to apples:
Look at what’s included, not just the total
Two quotes might look very different at first glance, but when you dig into the details, they could be much closer in cost than you think. Check what each quote covers; things like materials, labour, installation, extras like handles or trims. Sometimes a “cheaper” quote ends up costing more once you add in all the bits it left out.
Ask about survey costs
Some companies include a site survey in their price, while others don’t. A survey can sometimes uncover extra work or costs you hadn’t thought about. If the installer can’t give a clear answer about potential surprises, that’s a red flag. You want as much clarity upfront as possible.
At Birmingham Glass, we have plenty of information on what working with us looks like. From the initial sales survey to aftercare, we make sure every step is clear, transparent, and stress-free, so there are no surprises along the way.
Get it all in writing
Anything that isn’t written down, assume it isn’t included. That means scaffolding, cleaning up, and disposal of old windows or doors. A quote should be detailed enough that there are no hidden extras.
Be wary of quotes that seem too simple
If a quote for a complicated installation is just a one-line price, something’s probably missing. A detailed quote shows the installer has thought through the project and gives you a much better idea of what you’re actually paying for.
By keeping these points in mind, you’ll end up comparing quotes that are truly comparable and avoid surprises when the work begins.
Why transparent window quotes are more valuable than price
At the end of the day, most people aren’t chasing the lowest number, they want honesty and certainty.
A clear, fully inclusive quote:
- Prevents nasty surprises
- Makes budgeting easier
- Builds trust between customer and installer
A “cheap” quote can feel good initially, but without transparency, it often ends up costing more in the long run. Paying a little extra upfront for a complete quote can save money, stress, and frustration later.
Request a free, detailed quote from Birmingham Glass today and see exactly what’s included so you can make an informed decision without the stress.
