Due to increasing costs, more than 50% of homeowners are now opting to renovate their homes rather than sell, compared to just 3% in 2013. Sarah Knight, technical product manager at Quanex group, which includes ERA, explains why offering a breadth of hardware choice can help manufacturers to support customers working across a range of budgets.
Research suggests that more than two thirds of homeowners consider kerb appeal when evaluating a property, demonstrating the value of a stylish exterior. With that, door and window upgrades are some of the most worthwhile improvements a homeowner can make when opting to renovate.
Such upgrades can help homeowners to achieve an elevated look, without the burden and cost of structural work. This provides an opportunity for door and window manufacturers, allowing them to reach a wider customer base by delivering a visual impact at a manageable price point.
Cost-effective solutions
There will always be a market for premium hardware solutions, with many homeowners looking for luxury characteristics and statement designs to elevate their property. However, it’s important to recognise that not every homeowner will opt for top-of-range products when working to a tight budget.
Thankfully, for manufacturers, there are a range of durable and aesthetic hardware options available to customers seeking cost-effective door and window solutions. Supplying lower-priced alternatives, alongside premium styles, allows manufacturers to remain competitive in a choice and value-driven market.
For example, ERA’s Decorative Range offers an affordable route to stylish and coordinated hardware. Available in six finishes, including popular chrome and white, ERA Decorative allows manufacturers to support budget-conscious homeowners, with a collection of high-quality window and door furniture.
The range comprises door handles in both patio and MPL Euro cylinder versions, window handles, letterplates, a knocker, alongside numerals and letters. Perfect for a comprehensive, yet cost-effective upgrade.
No compromise on quality
Cost-effective hardware should still promise quality, durability, and longevity to customers. Therefore, it is vital that door and window manufacturers ensure that budget-friendly options are tested to the highest industry standards and come with comprehensive guarantees.
For example, each product in the ERA Decorative Range comes with all the performance and quality characteristics expected of the brand. Offering both affordability and aesthetics, ERA Decorative products also come with a 10-year mechanical and five-year finish guarantee, reinforcing customer satisfaction and trust.
Options still matter
In a competitive market, offering cost-effective options is a strategic move for door and window manufacturers. However, there will always be customers wanting to invest more into their hardware solutions.
Premium hardware ranges, such as Fab&Fix, appeal to customers keen on customisation. For homeowners who want unique styling, high-end finishes, and enhanced performance, premium styles continue to provide exclusivity. Supplying such lines allows manufacturers to cater for customers who require maximum choice.
Fab&Fix is ideal for homeowners looking for an extensive suite of door and window furniture, with Classic, Heritage, Architectural and Forged designs to choose from.
ERA’s premium Fab&Fix hardware range provides up to 13 finishes, with a selection of colours, textures, and styles available, for customers looking to personalise their property.
Providing a balanced selection of hardware for customers is an effective approach for door and window manufacturers. This is because providing both cost-effective solutions and premium collections allows homeowners to choose the best products suited to their unique needs and budgets.
Offering both budget-led and design-conscious products to homeowners enables manufacturers to broaden their appeal and sales success and strengthen customer satisfaction. With the right hardware partner, door and window manufacturers can also position themselves as suppliers who prioritise quality at every price point.
