What to include in a commercial aluminium glazing enquiry
For contractors, architects and property teams
A glazing estimate is only as good as the information behind it. An enquiry that arrives with drawings, a clear scope and a realistic programme can be priced with fewer assumptions, fewer exclusions and fewer surprises later.
This checklist covers what is most useful to send. You will not always have everything, particularly early on. Send what you have and say what is still being developed.
1. The basics
Start with the information needed to understand who is asking and where the work is.
- Your company, your role on the project and a named contact
- The site address, or at least the town
- Whether this is a budget enquiry, a tender or a firm order
- The tender return date, if there is one
2. Scope
Say which elements are included: curtain walling, windows, shopfronts, entrance doors, screens or a combination. If the package boundary is unclear, for example who provides cills, flashings, closers or brackets, say so. Ambiguity at package edges is one of the most common causes of later disputes.
3. Drawings
Drawings let an estimator measure the work and spot interfaces. Useful drawings include:
- Elevations showing the extent and arrangement of glazing
- Plans and sections through the glazing, especially at floors, roofs and cills
- Window or door schedules
- Typical details, if the design has reached that stage
4. Specification and performance
If the project has a specification, include it. Otherwise list the requirements you know about: thermal targets, acoustic needs, safety and security requirements, fire strategy implications, colour and finish. State who holds design responsibility for the glazing package so that it is clear what is being priced.
5. Programme and site
Installation cost depends heavily on how and when the work can be done.
- Target start, duration and any key dates
- Access: scaffolding, hoists, cranes or mobile access platforms and who provides them
- Storage space and working hours
- Whether the building will be occupied or trading
6. For replacement work
On existing buildings, photographs of the current glazing, inside and out, are often the single most useful thing you can send. Note any known defects, leaks or condensation problems, and whether a survey can be arranged.
A short version
If you only send five things, send the address, the drawings or photographs, the specification if there is one, the programme and a contact name. That is enough to start a useful conversation.
General guidance only. Requirements for a specific project are set by its specification, design team and the applicable regulations.