ASKING THE RIGHT QUESTIONS

We’re subscribing to a new quarterly research study which asks homeowners across the UK about their buying preferences when it comes to windows and doors.

We obviously want to know as much about our audience as we can and, with more than 1500 homeowners questioned every time, this is a great way for us to get independent insight into current and evolving trends in the wider market.

After just two reports, what’s emerging loud and clear is that aluminium is still very much on the up – and it is younger and more affluent buyers who say it is their number one choice of material. Older and less affluent homeowners still tend to prefer PVC-U and would be more likely to choose traditional casement windows in white, but the momentum is very much with aluminium – which is obviously great news for AluK.

When it comes to patio door styles, no clear favourite is yet emerging – bifolds, sliders and French doors all account for around a third of choices and, in terms of colours for windows and doors, white, black and grey dominate, which is largely in line with what we would expect. AluK obviously offers doors in all three styles Aluminium Doors | AluK Home GB and with sizes and specifications to suit any project and any budget, and we have a colour range which includes white, black and everything in between (Colour Collection | AluK Home GB).

What’s interesting about the research though is that some of the choices and rankings of those questioned don’t entirely tally with what we actually see happening in terms of sales and customer enquiries. 

For instance, triple glazing which is number one choice amongst those questioned for the research actually accounts for only a small percentage of sales in the wider market. Similarly, PVC panels rank higher than composite, timber or aluminium doors, when in fact they are no longer the number one option.

A probable explanation is that homeowners simply don’t know as much as we might think about the choices now available to them and it’s only when they do their online research, visit a showroom or talk to a professional window and door supplier, that they are actually in a position to make a more informed choice. 

Our website is packed with information and guidance for buyers on everything from energy efficiency  to colours – and we also can put you in touch with our manufacturing partners around the UK to help even further. Get in touch if you’d like to know more.