Aluminium windows and doors from China
Specify thermal break systems, glazing, hardware and custom dimensions before comparing factory quotations.
Start with an opening schedule
For aluminium windows and doors from China, a square metre price is only useful when the system and configuration match. Prepare an opening schedule with a unique reference for every unit, structural opening dimensions, operating direction, sill details, insect screens and required finish. Ask your local designer or installer to approve final measurements and installation allowances.
Compare casement, tilt and turn, sliding, lift and slide, folding and fixed systems according to the project. The same external dimensions can have different costs depending on the number of opening panels, glass weight, hardware and performance requirements.
Thermal break, glazing and performance
| Specification | State in the enquiry | Check before approval |
|---|---|---|
| Frame system | Series, section details and finish | System drawings and sample corner |
| Thermal performance | Project targets and calculation basis | Evidence for the complete window, not only glass |
| Glazing | Pane build-up, treatment and coating | Safety requirements and exact product documentation |
| Weather resistance | Site exposure and project performance targets | Relevant test reports for the configuration |
| Hardware | Brand, model, finish and operating type | Load suitability and replacement availability |
| Installation | Wall construction, fixing and drainage details | Local installer approval |
A thermal break is one part of the assembly. Frame design, glazing, seals and installation all influence performance. Do not assume double or triple glazing alone demonstrates compliance. Ask for the report and confirm that its dimensions and configuration cover the proposed system.
For safety glazing, match the manufacturer, plant and product to the relevant evidence. Where SGCC certification is specified, the SGCC product directory provides a verification route. Certification of glass does not by itself establish the structural suitability of an entire window or railing.
Compare quotations on a like for like basis
Require a price for each opening and a total that separates screens, hardware upgrades, glazing, export crates and inland transport. Ask how nonstandard shapes, small openings and oversized panels are priced. Confirm whether the quoted dimensions represent the opening, frame or glass area.
The cheapest profile is not necessarily the cheapest installed solution. A change in frame depth can alter reveals, flashings and interior finishes. Record exclusions such as local installation, lifting equipment, sealants and site testing before comparing totals.
Drawings and sample approval
Use a drawing register with revision numbers and written approvals. Verify opening direction from the stated viewing side, handle position, sill level, drainage paths and interfaces with adjacent work. Mark each approved unit with its schedule reference. Freeze the specification before production and document the cost and schedule effect of later changes.
For a larger repeat order, agree a representative sample unit or mock-up. Check operation, finish, seals and interfaces before releasing the full batch. The sample should represent the production system rather than a different showroom display.
Production and payment milestones
| Milestone | Release condition |
|---|---|
| Quotation | Opening schedule and performance brief reviewed |
| Production approval | Drawings, finish, glazing and hardware confirmed |
| Inspection | Units available for the agreed checks before crating |
| Shipment | Defect resolution, packing list and loading plan confirmed |
Obtain a lead time measured from final approval and the agreed payment milestone. Include time for revised drawings, imported components, inspection and corrections. A standard 15 to 45 day assumption is not reliable for every custom system.
Inspection and export packing
Check unit references, overall dimensions, opening operation, hardware, visible finish and packing. Verify documentation against the specified system. Site performance and structural design require appropriate professional review, not only a visual factory check.
Specify whether units ship assembled or in components. Label frames, glass and accessories by opening reference. Agree protective surfaces, crate lifting points and unloading equipment. Large glazed units can be difficult to combine with dense tile pallets, so plan the mixed shipment before production finishes.
Buyer questions
Can windows be made to my drawings?
Many suppliers offer custom fabrication. Final sizes, loads, performance and installation details must still be approved for the destination project.
Is a factory certificate enough?
No. Check the document scope, exact system and configuration. A certificate for another model or product category does not prove your order meets its requirements.
Can I order windows with cabinetry and tiles?
Yes, provided the collection schedule and loading arrangement work. Allow for fragile cargo protection, weight distribution and safe unloading.
Coordinate inspection and shipping
Use our pre-shipment inspection checklist to agree checks before payment and our container consolidation guide to coordinate packing and supplier ready dates. Confirm destination requirements with the product documentation guide.
Plan the next step
Send your specifications, quantities, destination and required delivery date. We will clarify the sourcing scope, supplier checks, inspection requirements and shipment coordination before you commit.