Definitions

The report covers the UK market for double and secondary glazing. Triple glazing is also included, though this remains a small sector of the market. Double glazing normally involves the removal and replacement of existing windows and frames, while secondary glazing can usually be fitted to existing frames. It is not possible to eliminate installation charges due to the nature of supply .

Sales to the building trade and the commercial, industrial public non-residential sectors are excluded.

There are a variety of materials used in the construction of window and door frames. Traditional timber still dominates the new installation market, while the use of steel window frames is largely out of fashion, though the material is more widely used outside the residential sector. PVCu is widely used in the retro-fit double glazing sector, where aluminium has also retained a significant role in commercial applications, especially retail properties.

The report looks at the direct sell and the builders/contract sector.

The direct sell sector includes all companies that offer windows and other products directly to the public on a sell and install basis, including door to door, retailers, garden centres, and showrooms. These companies have traditionally been known as ‘double glazing’ or ‘replacement windows’ companies. The windows and doors are normally used for replacement, though some first-time installations are also carried out. The selling tends to be on a local basis, or as the name suggests door to door or through a local showroom.

The builders/contract sector incorporates all windows and doors installed in private and public housing sector dwellings as part of home improvement schemes, other than those installed by direct sell companies, such as the new build market. The sector also incorporates companies that custom build products for their clients.

All prices are quoted at 2016 prices unless otherwise stated. Forecasts are also based on 2016 prices, therefore reflecting real growth. Production is quoted at manufacturers' selling prices, imports at CIF, and exports at FOB. Market prices are quoted at installation cost and comprise installed, framed and glazed prices.

Methodology

Reports are researched and written by MBD’s in-house, specialist business-to-business consultants. Research is based on both an analysis of official information and on original, trade research, providing both a quantitative and qualitative view of the market. MBD’s unique range of frequently updated reports provide an integrated body of on-going research, enabling deep understanding of the prevailing trends and the drivers of these trends based on trade opinion.

Abbreviations

The following abbreviations have been used in this report:

ADL Approved Documents L1 and L2
ALMO Arms Length Management Organisation
BSI British Standards Institution
CBI Confederation of British Industry
CIF Carried Insured Freight
CIPS/RBS Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply/Royal Bank of Scotland
CPD Construction Products Directive
CPI Consumer Price Index
: :
: :

Market positioning

The UK windows and doors market is strongly dependent on the replacement sector. The refurbishment market remains a small element of the total and is widely directed towards public housing properties. In contrast, the replacement sector is directed more significantly to private home owners, with its importance emphasised by high value products. Demand for windows and doors is also dependent on new construction output, which was severely reduced during the latter years of the review period, reflecting the recent global economic crisis and its impact on the construction industry.

This report covers a number of key questions including:

  • How has the market developed in the recovery from the recession?

  • What impact will the decision to leave the EU have on the market?

  • How are major companies changing their approach to the market?

  • What changes in material use are being seen?

  • What factors are affecting demand?

Back to top