A Scottish windows firm has reported a surge in demand for timber windows and doors, as people refurbish their homes rather than move house.

Blairs Windows in Greenock said their timber products are "high quality" and "bespoke" and have a lead time of just four weeks.

Allan French of the company said: "Home improvements are on the increase as people are refurbishing or extending existing properties rather than buy or build new homes. As a result, consumers wishing to replace existing windows with timber windows have been inundating our website with enquiries and customer visits to the factory."


He said one magazine recently stated that 25% of people have no idea how much new windows would cost while 43% said it is difficult to find good advice.

But Mr French urged refurbishers to check out their local firms rather than go to the internet for quotes.

He said: "73% of people do not agree that larger brands are cheaper than small local firms. That is where Blairs Windows come in. People who are serious about home improvements search a little further than those who are making a 'distressed' purchase, i.e. cheap plastic windows to replace existing rotten ones. We offer our expertise in design and specification that adds real value, our prices are extremely competitive, we deliver in 4 weeks and our product quality is stunning."

Blairs will be on Facebook soon and has a Twitter account.

A new showroom will be open later this year at their Greenock facility.

(NE/GK)