1. Anglian Home Improvements
Overview:
Anglian is one of the UK’s most established window and home-improvement firms, founded in 1966 and headquartered in Norwich. It remains a private company focused on high-quality, bespoke windows and doors manufactured domestically. (Wikipedia)
Products: uPVC windows, aluminium windows, timber windows, doors, conservatories and roofline products. (Wikipedia)
Why It’s a Top Manufacturer:
- Manufactures products in the UK with a nationwide distribution and installation network. (Wikipedia)
- Offers energy-efficient solutions often custom-made for each project. (PA Window and Door)
- Claims to install 500,000+ windows and doors annually. (PA Window and Door)
Industry Comments: Anglian’s size and UK manufacturing breadth give it strong market presence, though some customer experiences vary widely depending on installation quality and regional reps. (Reddit)
2. Eurocell PLC
Overview:
Founded in 1974, Eurocell is one of the UK’s most complete uPVC operations — manufacturing its own raw profiles, producing finished window systems, and distributing them through a large branch network. (Vallisco)
Products: uPVC profile systems for windows & doors, cladding, conservatory roofs. (Vallisco)
Why It’s a Top Manufacturer:
- Controls multiple stages of production from raw materials to finished products. (Vallisco)
- Strong vertical integration helps quality and supply reliability. (Vallisco)
Industry Comments: Eurocell’s broad footprint and supply chain integration make it popular with trade installers and developers alike. (Vallisco)
3. CR Smith
Overview:
One of the UK’s oldest window firms (est. 1917) based in Scotland, CR Smith manufactures a wide range of windows, doors and façade products, often tailored for local climatic conditions. (PA Window and Door)
Products: uPVC, aluminium and timber windows; conservatories; composite doors. (PA Window and Door)
Why It’s a Top Manufacturer:
- Proudly manufactures locally in Scotland, with strong quality control. (PA Window and Door)
- Offers extended warranties and service support. (PA Window and Door)
Industry Comments: CR Smith is often cited for excellent customer satisfaction in Scotland and northern UK markets. (PA Window and Door)
4. Emplas Group
Overview:
Founded in 1979 as a small family business, Emplas has grown into one of the UK’s largest window and door fabricators. (Emplas)
Products: Aluminium and uPVC windows and doors for trade, new-build and social housing sectors. (Emplas)
Why It’s a Top Manufacturer:
- Focuses on energy-efficient and secure products. (Emplas)
- Works with major profile systems and offers strong technical support. (Emplas)
Industry Comments: Emplas is well respected for fabricator support and specification quality in commercial and large residential projects. (Emplas)
5. Crittall Windows
Overview:
Founded in 1889 and based in Essex, Crittall is a heritage manufacturer of steel-framed windows and curtain walling, widely used in architectural and restoration projects. (Wikipedia)
Products: Steel and aluminium industrial-style windows and glazed façades. (Wikipedia)
Why It’s a Top Manufacturer:
- Renowned for premium steel-framed solutions featured in iconic UK buildings. (Wikipedia)
- Ideal for conservation, listed buildings and bespoke architectural work. (Wikipedia)
Industry Comments: Crittall’s signature products often define Art Deco and Modernist architecture, making it a specialist choice. (Wikipedia)
6. Everest Home Improvement
Overview:
Everest was a major UK window and home improvements brand but faced corporate instability and administration events in recent years (as of 2025). (Wikipedia)
Products: uPVC, timber and aluminium windows and doors. (pahome.com)
Why It Was Significant:
- Historically ranked among the UK’s largest window companies. (insightdata.co.uk)
- Pioneered triple-glazed products. (Wikipedia)
Industry Comments: Everest’s legacy remains strong in the UK, but current market positioning is affected by corporate restructuring. (Wikipedia)
7. Crystal Windows & Doors
Overview:
A mid-sized British window manufacturer with a growing presence in the UK market, particularly in uPVC systems. (insightdata.co.uk)
Products: uPVC windows and doors tailored for residential markets. (insightdata.co.uk)
Why It’s a Top Manufacturer:
- Growing turnover and strong regional distribution. (insightdata.co.uk)
Industry Comments: Crystal is often recommended as a reliable alternative to the big national brands, with flexible trade partnerships. (insightdata.co.uk)
8. Masterframe
Overview:
Masterframe specialises in heritage style sash windows using uPVC, popular for period properties and conservation areas. (Double Glazing Blogger)
Products: Vertical sliding sash windows with historically authentic detailing. (Double Glazing Blogger)
Why It’s a Top Manufacturer:
- Unique niche focus gives it a strong reputation among specialist installers. (Double Glazing Blogger)
Industry Comments: Masterframe is valued where authentic timber aesthetics are required with modern performance. (Double Glazing Blogger)
9. CMS Window Systems
Overview:
A UK manufacturer focused on energy-efficient uPVC windows, often specified in new builds and retrofit projects. (Glazing Network)
Products: Energy efficient uPVC window and door systems. (Glazing Network)
Why It’s a Top Manufacturer:
- Known for thermal performance and specification compliance. (Glazing Network)
Industry Comments: CMS is frequently chosen on performance criteria rather than brand fame. (Glazing Network)
10. CWG Choices
Overview:
CWG Choices offers a broad range of window systems including PVCu, aluminium, timber and alu-clad products across the UK. (Glazing Network)
Products: Contemporary and traditional windows and doors across multiple materials. (Glazing Network)
Why It’s a Top Manufacturer:
- Versatile range for many project types, from domestic homes to commercial. (Glazing Network)
Industry Comments: Its multi-material offering makes CWG Choices a flexible partner for varied architectural requirements. (Glazing Network)
Key Industry Notes
Market Landscape
- The UK has thousands of window manufacturers ranging from small local producers to large national firms, with around 52 larger companies employing over 100 people. (CompanyData by BoldData)
- Many national firms focus on uPVC double-glazed products, but there’s growing demand for aluminium and heritage steel systems. (Glazing Network)
Consumer Considerations
- Installation quality is crucial: Many industry professionals note that even high-quality windows can perform poorly if installed incorrectly. (Reddit)
- Energy and security performance vary based on frame design, glazing options and hardware. Always check U-values and Secured by Design certifications. (Manchester Window Factory)
Summary Table: Top UK Window Manufacturers
| Company | Core Strength | Product Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Anglian Home Improvements | Large UK manufacturer with bespoke options | uPVC, aluminium, timber |
| Eurocell PLC | Vertically integrated uPVC production | uPVC profiles & windows |
| CR Smith | Local manufacturing with strong quality | uPVC, aluminium, timber |
| Emplas | Trade & specification supply | uPVC, aluminium windows |
| Crittall Windows | Heritage steel window specialist | Steel & bespoke glazing |
| Everest | Historically significant brand | uPVC & aluminium (restructured) |
| Crystal Windows | Growing regional manufacturer | uPVC windows |
| Masterframe | Specialist sash windows | Classic uPVC sash |
| CMS Window Systems | Performance-focused systems | uPVC energy efficient |
| CWG Choices | Versatile material offerings | PVCu, aluminium, timber |
Here’s a detailed top-10 list of UK window manufacturers with real case studies and industry comments — showing not just who they are, but how their products perform in real projects and what customers/industry sources say about them.
1) Eurocell plc — Innovation & Large-Scale Efficiency
Case Studies
Inverness Housing Project (Places for People)
Eurocell’s InSite window system was used to manufacture and install windows into wall panels offsite, cutting installation time dramatically — all windows for a block of four terraced houses were installed in just two days versus a typical week-plus schedule. The system also meets fire-safety standards and improves build programme efficiency. (eurocell.co.uk)
New-Build & Retrofit Series
Eurocell’s case archives show multiple projects:
- Student accommodation retrofit using energy-efficient Modus profiles.
- University housing using Modus 75mm systems with high sustainability and aesthetics.
- Cambridge retrofit upgrading 46 homes toward high energy standards. (eurocell.co.uk)
Comment
Eurocell excels where offsite modern methods of construction (MMC) and project speed are critical. Their InSite system especially drives efficiency and lower onsite risk — increasingly valued in housing and commercial builds. (eurocell.co.uk)
2) CR Smith — Trusted Regional Specialist (Scotland)
Case Studies
Fort William Home Renovation
CR Smith installed slimline A-rated uPVC casement, tilt & turn windows with custom timber sills and anthracite grey finish, improving energy efficiency and aesthetic blend with the scenic Highland home. (CR Smith)
Dollar, Fife Heritage Project
Lorimer casement windows with Georgian bars were fitted, matching original architectural character and eliminating draughts while significantly boosting thermal performance. (CR Smith)
Comment
CR Smith enjoys excellent customer ratings and very high Trustpilot feedback (≈4.9/5), largely because of bespoke manufacturing and strong service across Scotland. Their case studies show how tailored windows can elevate both traditional and modern homes. (GreenMatch.co.uk)
3) Crittall Windows — Architectural & Heritage Steel Specialist
Case Studies
Globe Theatre (Stockton-on-Tees)
Crittall supplied bespoke steel-framed windows and doors for the restoration of the Grade II listed Globe Theatre, preserving original aesthetic while upgrading performance. (source.thenbs.com)
Devonshire House, London
Thermally broken Crittall steel profiles were used to enhance energy performance on a heritage-style office building while maintaining period-correct appearance. (source.thenbs.com)
Comment
Crittall is iconic for steel windows — often specified where design and historic authenticity matter most. Their long heritage (est. 1889, used in UK landmarks such as the Houses of Parliament and Tower of London) underlines their architectural cred. (Wikipedia)
4) Anglian Home Improvements — National Manufacturer
Case Indicators (industry／review-based)
Anglian has built >50 years of experience and offers a wide range of uPVC, aluminium and timber windows. They are nationwide with strong industry credentials. (Wikipedia)
Customer Comments
Review communities note mixed experiences — some praise products aesthetically, while others highlight issues with energy performance or high prices and sales tactics. (Reddit)
Comment
Anglian’s scale and product breadth make them a top national manufacturer, but customer satisfaction varies significantly by region and installation contractor. Comparing quotes is strongly recommended.
5) Everest Home Improvement — Premium Brand (Legacy & Transition)
Context
Everest was one of the UK’s most recognised window brands, offering uPVC, triple-glazing and custom options. The original company went into administration and was re-formed as Everest 2020, preserving jobs and operations. (Wikipedia)
Industry View
Everest products historically enjoyed good brand awareness, and consumer review guides list them as among the UK’s best double-glazing installers. (Ecopreneurist)
Comment
While the original corporate entity changed, the product legacy remains significant — and many homeowners still associate Everest with quality; always confirm current manufacturer stability before purchase.
6) Safestyle UK — Replacement Window & Door Manufacturer
Industry Profile
Safestyle produces PVCu double-glazed windows and doors in the UK, with manufacturing in Barnsley, South Yorkshire. (Wikipedia)
Comment
Safestyle was often ranked with the UK’s large window installers; they focus on value-oriented PVCu products. Their Trustpilot presence and branch network have made them widely visible, though reputations vary among customers.
7) Crystal Windows & Doors — Regional Performer
Industry Position
Listed among UK window manufacturers by net worth and industry surveys, Crystal offers uPVC systems and works with local installers. (Insight Data)
Comment
Crystal represents a strong regional manufacturing option — often balancing price, quality and service, particularly across the South and Southeast markets.
8) Britelite — South East Specialist
Industry Insights
Britelite has a long presence in South East England with A-rated window systems and full installation services. (GreenMatch.co.uk)
Comment
Britelite is notable where regional service and bespoke fit outweigh national brand scale. Projects often include conservatory integrates and full home refreshes.
9) Masterframe — Sash Window Niche Specialist
Industry Focus
Masterframe specialises in vertical sash windows that combine traditional styling with modern performance — popular in conservation areas and heritage homes. (WarmerInside)
Comment
This niche focus sets Masterframe apart when aesthetics and period-style authenticity are key project requirements.
10) CMS Window Systems — Performance-Driven Manufacturer
Industry Profile
CMS is recognised for producing high-efficiency uPVC window systems used in both residential and commercial builds across the UK. (Glazing Network)
Comment
CMS products are often specified where thermal performance and compliance are priorities, especially in retrofit and new-build sustainability-led projects.
Summary: Case Themes & Comments
| Manufacturer | Key Project Highlights | Industry & User Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Eurocell | Offsite integration in Inverness; student housing upgrades | Efficiency, MMC innovation |
| CR Smith | Highland home; period fit-outs in Scotland | Excellent satisfaction & bespoke design |
| Crittall | Globe Theatre & Devonshire House | Architectural/heritage steel excellence |
| Anglian | Nationwide installations | Large scale; mixed reviews on customer experience |
| Everest | Legacy big brand | Premium options, corporate evolution |
| Safestyle UK | PVCu mass market | Value-oriented products |
| Crystal Windows | Regional installations | Balance of price & quality |
| Britelite | South East home projects | Localised service strength |
| Masterframe | Sash window niche | Authentic heritage aesthetics |
| CMS | Performance-led uPVC systems | Energy & compliance focus |
General Industry Comments
Customer satisfaction can vary widely — much depends on installation quality, local contractor expertise, and product specification. Always compare warranties and performance ratings (e.g., A-rated energy performance). (FMB)Offsite and integrated solutions like Eurocell’s InSite are increasingly popular for modern residential and social housing builds, improving timelines and reducing onsite risk. (eurocell.co.uk)
Heritage and bespoke manufacturing (e.g., Crittall, Masterframe, CR Smith) still play a strong role in renovation and conservation projects, blending aesthetics with performance.