The useful answer
Make quotes comparable before ranking their totals. Use one opening schedule and mark every difference in model, glass, layout, finish, installation and aftercare. An unanswered line is unconfirmed, not included.
A practical way to normalise two quotations
Create a row for each opening and a column for each supplier. Copy the exact system name and configuration first. Then compare the performance evidence and accessories, followed by work scope. Ask suppliers to price missing items or clearly state that they are excluded. Keep optional alternatives separate so you can see the cost of choosing them.
Only calculate a like-for-like total after the scope is aligned. If a supplier proposes a different product, record why: it may be a sensible alternative, but it is still a different proposal. Review payment stages, quote validity, survey ownership, lead-time assumptions and the contact for problems. A lower price does not resolve an unclear responsibility for final measurements.
A situation you can apply to your own project
Quote A includes fitting but excludes removal and internal making good. Quote B includes removal, disposal and trims but not decoration. Ask both to define the remaining work, then add comparable priced items or clearly labelled allowances. You can then decide whether the product difference is worth paying for, instead of mistaking missing work for a saving.
Compare the practical details
| Decision | What it means for your project |
|---|---|
| Identity | Exact system, fabricator where relevant, drawing and opening reference. |
| Specification | Dimensions, glass, colour, hardware and operating arrangement. |
| Scope | Survey, delivery, unloading, fitting, removal and making good. |
| Order terms | Validity, payment stages, changes, timing and written aftercare. |
Fill in your side-by-side quote worksheet
Enter the details from your two quotations below. Download the CSV before leaving; entries are not saved to an account or sent to us.
| Check | Supplier A | Supplier B |
|---|---|---|
| Product systemManufacturer, exact range and configuration | ||
| DimensionsOpening or frame size; width, height and quantity | ||
| GlassExact glazing specification and performance basis | ||
| FinishColour code, texture, inside/outside and hardware | ||
| OpeningPanel movement, active leaf and clear access | ||
| Threshold / kerbAgreed drawing and finished levels | ||
| Product priceSupply subtotal and VAT treatment | ||
| InstallationSurvey, fitting and agreed scope | ||
| Site extrasLifting, access, removal, finishing and waste | ||
| DeliveryTiming, unloading and any special arrangements | ||
| Lead timeConfirmed estimate and conditions | ||
| Warranty / aftercareWho provides cover, scope and exclusions |
Work through the specification
Three checks before choosing
Match the specification. A narrower frame, different glass or added opening panel may explain a price difference. Ask for the exact product and drawings.
Match the scope. Separate product supply from survey, installation and site work. Check who provides lifting equipment, removes old frames and completes finishes.
Resolve unknowns. Ask each supplier to confirm missing items in writing. Compare VAT on the same basis and retain the agreed revision of each quote.
Prepare your door and window surveyYour checklist before the next conversation
- Send the same brief to each supplier
- Highlight differences in writing
- Price missing work
- Check complete-product evidence
- Keep the final comparison with your approved order