A practical guide to buying windows from China

Start with the building, then choose the window

A useful enquiry starts with the project rather than a catalogue image. Record the destination, building use, approximate opening sizes and the way each window should work. Identify whether the dimensions describe a structural opening, a finished opening or the outside of the frame.

Your local design and installation team should identify the requirements that apply to the building. Send those criteria to the supplier before asking for a system recommendation. A window that looks similar in a photograph may have a different frame, glass build-up, opening arrangement or intended use.

Prepare one consistent window schedule

Give every opening a reference and use that reference across drawings, quotations and approvals. Show the viewing direction and mark which panels move. Include doors and fixed glazing if they need to coordinate with the windows.

• Opening reference, quantity and clearly defined dimensions
• Internal or external elevation with opening direction
• Frame finish, glass requirements and hardware preferences
• Destination, delivery expectations and installation scope
• Any required reports or project-specific design criteria

Compare the scope behind the quotation

Ask suppliers to quote against the same schedule. Check what is included in the frame, glazing, handles, screens, packaging and delivery terms. Clarify whether accessories, installation materials or local services are excluded.

A low line-item price can conceal a different specification. Keep a comparison sheet that records the complete assembly and commercial scope. Resolve unclear substitutions before discussing order confirmation.

Approve drawings before production

The approval set should connect every product to its opening reference and show the agreed dimensions, configuration, glass, finish and hardware. Ask how revisions will be recorded and who is authorised to approve them.

For unfamiliar finishes or details, discuss physical samples or a representative sample assembly. The purpose is to close decisions while changes are still practical, rather than discover a misunderstanding at installation.

Plan the handover as part of the order

Agree inspection checkpoints, packing identification and the documents expected with the shipment. Make sure the receiving and installation teams can match the delivered units to the schedule.

Before paying or arranging dispatch, review the agreed order conditions and the evidence required at that stage. Shipping, import clearance and installation deserve their own plan; they should not be left until production is finished.