Window & Door Hardware to Offer Your Customers

In today’s competitive market, homeowners look towards hardware for windows and doors to elevate their home’s functionality. However, whilst hardware was commonly considered purely an additional, practical component in the past, it has now become an essential part of home improvement projects when it comes to choosing windows or doors. Hardware can now upgrade the whole picture, from aesthetics with high-end finishes to performance with high-tech features.

Particularly for trade professionals, understanding what to stock and what to recommend to your customers is more important than ever before. With the variety of options available, knowing about hardware types and current customer trends can guarantee improved customer satisfaction, ultimately driving more sales. At Sternfenster Window Systems, we have 50 years of experience within the home improvement industry, manufacturing multi-award-winning uPVC and aluminium windows and doors. Our guide will offer advice on the kinds of window and door hardware you can provide to your customers, why hardware is more sought after than ever before, and what some of the trending hardware features are. 

Why Window & Door Hardware Matters More Than Ever

The modern customer has a range of requirements that they are looking for when it comes to their next window or door. They are looking for not just a window and door but a whole package, including enhanced security, functionality, comfort, and appearance. Hardware is no longer viewed as a finishing touch, but instead a crucial aspect of a product’s market value.

Matching Window and Door Hardware to Customer Preferences

Understanding which hardware options suit specific customer appeals is an essential way for trade professionals to recommend the right product and effectively upsell. 

Security

Security is arguably one of the most prevalent concerns for UK homeowners. It has, and likely will continue to be, a vital element of a window and door, with customers searching for the best security hardware on the market.

What To Recommend:

To cater to this client base, it could be worth recommending multi-point locking systems, motion sensor lights, a wide-angle peephole, or door chains for their doors. In the case of windows, hardware such as window latches, locks, or security films can help with peace of mind and prevent unwelcome entry into the home.

Energy Efficiency

Energy efficiency within a home has become increasingly a priority to homeowners all over the nation as a result of rising energy costs, unpredictable weather, and climate change. In this case, there is a wide array of hardware products to recommend to your customers.

What To Recommend:

If their doors require an upgrade, prioritising high-quality door seals is essential to preventing air leakage and energy waste. Where windows are concerned, materials such as weatherstripping, caulk, and foam tape can fill gaps and prevent air leaks. Alternatively, improving insulation through alternative window frame materials such as fibreglass and vinyl, or replacing a window with double glazing, would show a significant improvement in energy efficiency. Upgrading your customers will improve thermal efficiency within their home, reducing their reliance on central heating and electricity.

Appearance

On the aesthetic side, hardware also plays a key role in the overall style of a home. There is an expectation that hardware should come in a variety of finishes and styles, due to an emphasis on cohesion within the home. Keeping the hardware that you offer in a wide variety of styles, colours, and finishes can add to its premium appeal, as well as help maintain customer satisfaction and ultimately sell your hardware products.

What to Recommend:

For both doors and windows, the choice of handle can have a significant impact on the overall look. It would be beneficial to point customers towards their desired handle style and finish, taking into consideration their home’s age and style, as well as their taste.

Customer Trends to Look Out For

With the constantly evolving commercial landscape, customers continuously seek the newest and most advantageous products to upgrade their homes. Which is why staying ahead of trends is key to success. There are a few notable trends that are currently influencing customers’ hardware of choice:

Smart Technology – including smart locks, sensor-activated windows, and voice-controlled access points offers added convenience and security. These are also becoming increasingly popular for high-end builds, allowing for keyless entry through a customer’s smartphone.

Minimalistic Design – slim frames and hidden hinges are ever-increasingly popular because of the unmatched natural light that they offer, and for their sleek, modern design.

Sustainability – with a growing desire for energy-efficiency within the home, natural materials like wood and energy-efficient glass offer eco-friendly alternatives that will satisfy a customer’s wish for a lowered carbon footprint. Highlighting the low environmental impact can be a practical selling point.

Your Window and Door Experts

Hardware for windows and doors may have once been an afterthought, but today it is core to success. The products’ appearance, functionality, and additional benefits are all factors that the modern paying customer searches for in their home improvement project. This offers an opportunity for trade professionals to create a comprehensive range of up-to-date hardware and knowledge to satisfy customer expectations. If you are a trade customer or part of the Sternfenster installer network, you can contact us over the phone, via email, or by starting a bespoke, no-obligation online quote to start selling Sternfenster today.