Booking a glazing consultation is the natural first step when you are considering bi-fold doors, a roof lantern, structural glass, or a whole-house window replacement. It is not a sales visit — it is a structured conversation designed to understand your home, your priorities, and the options available to you.
We know that inviting someone into your home to discuss a significant investment requires trust. This guide explains exactly what happens during a Hertfordshire Glass consultation, what we look for, and how to prepare so the visit is as productive as possible.
How to book
Consultations can be arranged through our contact page or by telephone. We typically respond within 24 hours to arrange a convenient time. Consultations are offered across Hertfordshire — from St Albans and Harpenden to Watford, Hitchin, and Hertford.
There is no charge for an initial consultation and no obligation to proceed. Our aim is to give you clear, honest advice — even if that advice is to wait, adjust scope, or pursue a different approach.
What we discuss
Every consultation begins with understanding your project:
- What are you hoping to achieve? — more light, a connection to the garden, improved thermal performance, a bathroom upgrade?
- What is the scope? — a single opening, a rear extension, a whole-house window replacement?
- What is your timeline? — are you at early design stage, mid-build, or ready to install?
- What is your property like? — period or contemporary, detached or terraced, conservation area or not?
These questions shape everything that follows. We listen carefully before recommending any product or system.
What we assess on site
If your project involves a specific opening or installation location, we survey on site:
- Dimensions — width, height, and depth of openings; head height; floor levels.
- Structure — lintel condition, wall thickness, steel requirements for large spans.
- Access — how materials and equipment will reach the installation location.
- Existing glazing — condition, style, and performance of current windows and doors.
- Orientation and outlook — sun path, overlooking, privacy, and views.
- Drainage and thresholds — floor levels relative to external paving, drainage routes.
For bathroom projects such as shower screens and bespoke glass, we may take initial measurements but typically return for final templating once tiling is complete.
What we advise on
Following the survey, we discuss options relevant to your project:
- System type — bi-fold, sliding, fixed structural, roof lantern, casement, sash, or a combination.
- Frame material and colour — aluminium, timber, steel-look, and how each relates to your property.
- Glass specification — thermal performance, solar control, acoustic glazing, safety glass, and low-iron options.
- Integration — how new glazing relates to existing windows, doors, and architectural features.
- Planning considerations — whether your project likely requires permission or can proceed under permitted development.
- Timeline — realistic programme from specification to installation.
We explain the reasoning behind each recommendation rather than presenting a single option.
A good consultation leaves you better informed about your options — whether or not you choose to proceed with us.
What we do not do at consultation
To set clear expectations:
- We do not provide instant quotes on site. Bespoke glazing is specified to order; pricing follows after we have confirmed dimensions, system type, and glass specification.
- We do not provide planning advice. We can indicate likely requirements based on experience, but planning decisions rest with your local authority.
- We do not pressure you to commit. Consultations are advisory. Many clients take weeks or months to decide — that is entirely normal for projects at this investment level.
How to prepare
A few simple steps help us make the most of your consultation:
- Share any architect drawings or plans — even rough sketches help us understand scope and intent.
- Note your priorities — light, views, thermal performance, aesthetics, budget range.
- Identify decision-makers — it helps if all stakeholders can attend or are represented.
- Clear access — ensure we can reach the relevant rooms, openings, and (if applicable) the garden.
- List existing concerns — draughts, condensation, noise, security, or operational issues with current glazing.
What happens next
After the consultation, we prepare a specification and quotation tailored to your project. This typically includes:
- Confirmed dimensions and system type
- Glass and frame specification
- Hardware and finishing details
- Installation programme
- Investment summary
We allow time for questions and revisions before you commit. For larger projects — structural glass installations, whole-house replacement, or multi-opening schemes — we may recommend a follow-up visit once designs are refined.
Browse our gallery for examples of completed work, and explore our services for the full range of what we offer.
Book your consultation
Ready to begin? Book a glazing consultation and tell us about your home. We look forward to the conversation.
