Small Aluminium Window Workshop

Local builders, developers, installers who don't want to wait on large fabricators, and homeowners and self-builders buying direct.

A price per window or per job covering materials, glass, labour and margin. Trade customers bring repeat orders, and fitting adds to the value of each job.

• Metalworking and precise assembly
• Reading drawings and measuring accurately
• Quoting, costing and stock control
• Customer service with trade and retail customers

• Check which product standards and performance marking apply to windows you make and sell (for example UKCA or CE marking and thermal performance)
• Check Building Regulations and whether you need a competent person scheme if you also fit
• Machinery safety, dust, noise and manual handling in the workshop. Check what rules apply to your setup
• Public liability, product liability and employer's liability insurance once you take someone on
• Check planning use and your lease terms for the unit
• High start-up costs and reliance on a few trade customers can strain cash flow

Startup costs are typically around £25,000 to £90,000, depending on the unit, machinery, stock of profiles and glazing equipment you need. These are estimates, and high startup costs can strain cash flow, so plan your budget carefully.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around £6,000 to £30,000, depending on your order volume, mix of trade and retail customers and the hours you work. Relying on a few trade customers can make income uneven.

Check which product standards and performance marking apply, such as UKCA or CE marking and thermal performance. Also check Building Regulations if you fit, machinery safety, insurance including product liability, and planning use and lease terms for your unit.