A Q&A with Collington & Company's Experienced Engineers, Dan and Mark
When it comes to windows and doors, many homeowners assume that once issues arise, full replacement is the only option. However, repairs are often a faster, more cost-effective solution. We spoke with Dan and Mark, two of our highly skilled engineers at Collington & Company, to discuss how they help customers restore their windows and doors—saving time, money, and unnecessary waste.
Q: How many years of experience do you both have in repairing windows and doors? What types of repairs do you specialise in?
Dan: I’ve been a window installer for seven years and a service engineer for three and a half years. My expertise lies in reglazing, replacing mechanisms, and fixing hinges.
Mark: I have nine years of experience in window and door repairs, plus 28 years in the construction industry. We don’t specialise in just one area because every job is different. Different manufacturers use different locks, gearboxes, hinges, and handles, so we have to be versatile.
Q: What are the most common issues you see with windows and doors that can be repaired instead of replaced? Can you share an example?
Dan: The most common window issues we deal with are blown units (condensation inside the glass), seized hinges, and broken mechanisms. For doors, we often see misaligned hinges, seized locking systems, and water ingress problems. Most of these can be easily repaired, restoring full function without the need for costly replacements.
Mark: Many problems come down to a lack of regular maintenance. Every day, we help customers save money by servicing or repairing their existing windows and doors rather than replacing them. A great example is when a window is thought to be beyond repair, but we successfully replace the glazing, hinges, mechanism, and handles for a fraction of the cost of full replacement.
Q: What is your typical process when diagnosing a problem? How do you decide whether a repair is sufficient or if replacement is necessary?
Dan: I always start by listening to the customer’s description of the issue. Then, I inspect the window or door myself and test how it operates. From there, I can quickly diagnose the problem and provide a cost estimate. Most of the time, a repair is the more economical choice.
Mark: I take a very hands-on approach—using the door or window myself to identify the problem. If a repair costs less than 60% of the price of a full replacement, I always recommend repair. In reality, most repairs cost less than 20% of what a full replacement would.
Q: How do your repairs save customers time and money compared to full replacements? Do you offer any warranties?
Dan: Repairs are quicker, more affordable, and cause less disruption than full replacements. Most repairs can be completed on the spot, except for reglazing jobs, where we need to source the glass.
● Replaced sealed units come with a 5-year warranty.
● Moving parts like mechanisms, hinges, and handles come with a 12-month warranty.
Mark: Regular servicing and maintenance of window and door mechanisms will always save money in the long run by preventing more serious damage.
What’s the most challenging repair job you’ve worked on? Any unusual or rare problems?
Dan: Seized doors can be one of the toughest challenges. Modern doors have high-security locking systems, so by design, they’re difficult to open if they fail. In these cases, we have to find a way to unlock the door without a key or handle, which takes skill and experience.
Mark: The hardest repairs are usually in coastal areas, where sea air causes corrosion and rust. I love these jobs, though, because it’s incredibly rewarding to get a seized window or door working again—especially if it’s been stuck for months or even years.
Are there any maintenance tips homeowners should follow to avoid costly replacements?
Dan: The best thing homeowners can do is keep hinges and locking mechanisms well-lubricated. We recommend using a silicone-based spray grease, which helps prevent wear and tear. If you live in a coastal area, you should lubricate twice a year to combat corrosion.
Mark: Regular servicing and minor adjustments can extend the lifespan of your windows and doors. Small problems, like a stiff handle or a misaligned hinge, can turn into costly repairs if left untreated.
Conclusion: Repair First, Replace Only When Necessary
At Collington & Company, we believe in repairing rather than replacing wherever possible. Our skilled engineers, Dan and Mark, have helped countless customers restore their windows and doors—saving time, money, and unnecessary hassle.
If you're experiencing issues with your windows or doors, contact us today for expert advice and affordable repair solutions!
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