Ashtonglass.co.uk Review

Based on checking the website ashtonglass.co.uk, our review indicates that while it presents itself as a legitimate local glass supplier, there are several significant aspects missing from its online presence that are typically expected of a professional and trustworthy business. This could raise concerns for potential customers seeking a seamless and comprehensive online experience.

Overall Review Summary:

Website Design & Modernity: Outdated.
Pricing Information: Absent.
Online Ordering/Quoting: Not available.
Customer Testimonials/Reviews: Lacking on the homepage.
About Us Section: Minimal.
Social Media Presence: Not linked.
Return/Warranty Policies: Not explicitly stated.
Transparency: Room for improvement.

The website provides basic information about the glass products and services offered, catering to both trade and domestic customers in Bristol, Bath, South Gloucester, and North Somerset. They highlight their specialisation as glass merchants with their own toughening plant, aiming for quick and efficient order fulfilment. However, the online experience feels somewhat antiquated. Modern websites, especially for businesses, often feature a more dynamic design, clear calls to action for pricing or quotes, and readily available customer feedback. The reliance on traditional contact methods (phone, email) without a strong online engagement strategy might deter customers accustomed to digital convenience. This gap in modern web practices suggests that while Ashton Glass Ltd may be a reputable physical entity, its digital storefront could benefit significantly from an overhaul to meet contemporary consumer expectations.

Here are some alternatives for sourcing home improvement materials and services that offer robust online experiences and clear information:

B&Q: A major UK retailer offering a vast range of home improvement products, including glass, windows, and doors, with comprehensive online catalogues, pricing, and delivery options.
Wickes: Another prominent UK home improvement retailer, providing building materials, including glazing solutions, with online ordering, in-store collection, and detailed product specifications.
Travis Perkins: A leading UK builders’ merchant, ideal for trade customers, offering a wide array of building materials, including glass and associated products, with trade accounts and efficient delivery.
Screwfix: While primarily focused on tools and hardware, Screwfix offers a selection of related building materials and components, known for their fast click-and-collect service and clear online stock levels.
Toolstation: Similar to Screwfix, Toolstation provides a broad range of products for trade and DIY, including some glazing accessories and related building consumables, with strong online presence and fast fulfilment.
Jewson: Another well-established builders’ merchant in the UK, offering a comprehensive range of building materials and services, including bespoke glass solutions, often catering to both trade and public.
Local Glass & Glazing Specialists (Amazon Search): While not a single company, searching for “local glass and glazing specialists” on Amazon or a similar marketplace can yield numerous smaller, independent businesses that might have more modern websites and offer competitive services within your area.

Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.

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IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

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Table of Contents

Ashtonglass.co.uk Review & First Look

When you land on ashtonglass.co.uk, the initial impression is one of a functional, albeit dated, business website. It’s clear that the site’s primary purpose is to convey essential information about their services rather than to offer a dynamic, interactive experience. The navigation is straightforward, with clear links to Home, Trade & Business Services, Sealed Glass Units, Toughened Glass, Cut Glass, Domestic Services, Gallery, and Contact.

Website Design and User Experience

The design aesthetic leans towards a more traditional, early 2010s web layout. There’s a noticeable absence of modern design elements such as responsive layouts for mobile devices, interactive graphics, or engaging video content. The colour scheme is simple, and the font choices are standard, contributing to a somewhat static feel. While functional, the user experience isn’t particularly intuitive or engaging for those accustomed to contemporary e-commerce or service-based websites. For instance, the “Learn more” buttons are quite generic, and there’s no immediate visual hierarchy guiding the user through their offerings.

Information Accessibility

The website does a decent job of making contact information prominent, with a phone number and email address clearly displayed at the top. This is a positive for quick queries. However, the detailed information about their products and services requires clicking through various sub-pages, which, while standard, lacks the instant gratification often found on modern sites that summarise key benefits on the homepage. There’s also a clear emphasis on their specialisation as “specialist glass merchants” with their “own glass toughening plant,” which is a strong selling point for efficiency and quality.

Ashtonglass.co.uk Pros & Cons

Based on an assessment of the website, ashtonglass.co.uk has certain strengths, primarily in its clear communication of core services and contact details. However, it also presents several limitations, particularly when compared to contemporary business websites.

Advantages of Ashtonglass.co.uk

Clear Service Offerings: The website clearly outlines the services provided, distinguishing between “Trade & Business Services” and “Domestic Services.” This helps potential clients quickly identify if their needs can be met.
Direct Contact Information: A prominent phone number (0117 963 1355) and email address ([email protected]) are displayed, making it easy for customers to get in touch directly. This is crucial for a service-based business.
Local Focus: The site explicitly mentions serving “Bristol, Bath, South Gloucester and North Somerset,” which is helpful for local customers looking for a nearby supplier.
Specialised Facilities: Highlighting their “own glass toughening plant” indicates a direct control over the production process, potentially leading to faster turnaround times and consistent quality. This is a significant operational advantage that is clearly communicated.
Accreditation Mention: The mention of “CMS Accredited” suggests adherence to certain industry standards, which can build trust.

Disadvantages of Ashtonglass.co.uk

Outdated Website Design: The visual design and user interface feel significantly behind current web standards. This can affect perceived professionalism and user trust.
Lack of Pricing Information: There is no indication of pricing, estimates, or a quotation system online. Customers must contact the company directly for any cost-related queries, which can be a barrier for those seeking quick comparisons. This is a major drawback for businesses expecting transparent information readily available.
No Online Ordering or Quoting System: The absence of an e-commerce function or an online quote request form means all interactions must happen via phone or email, which is less convenient for modern users. This contrasts sharply with competitors offering instant online solutions.
Limited Customer Engagement Features: There are no sections for customer testimonials, reviews, or case studies on the homepage. Social media links are also conspicuously absent. This makes it difficult for new visitors to gauge customer satisfaction or see examples of past work beyond the basic “Gallery.”
Minimal “About Us” Content: While they describe their services, there’s little information about the company’s history, values, or team members, which can help build rapport and trust with potential clients.
Basic Gallery: The gallery, while present, may not be as extensive or visually compelling as what more modern websites offer, potentially limiting the impact of their finished products.
Generic Legal Policies: The legal policies (Privacy, Cookie, Conditions of Use, Notice and Take Down) are linked to a generic “hibustudio.com” domain, suggesting they are templated and not specifically tailored or easily digestible for ashtonglass.co.uk. This might raise minor questions about the company’s direct ownership and customisation of its online legal framework.

Ashtonglass.co.uk Alternatives

When considering alternatives to ashtonglass.co.uk, especially if you’re looking for a more comprehensive online experience, clearer pricing, and potentially broader service areas, several UK-based glass suppliers and general building material retailers come to mind. These alternatives often offer a more streamlined digital presence, online quoting tools, and customer support. Photographvie.co.uk Review

Pilkington: As one of the largest glass manufacturers globally, Pilkington offers a vast range of glass products for various applications. While they don’t sell directly to consumers in the same way, their website provides extensive information on different glass types, performance data, and can guide you to authorised distributors and installers. They are a benchmark for quality and innovation in the glass industry.
- Key Features: Comprehensive product specifications (thermal, acoustic, safety glass), technical support, industry leader.
- Price: Varies significantly based on product and quantity; typically sourced through distributors.
- Pros: Reputable global brand, high-quality products, extensive technical data.
- Cons: Not a direct retail outlet, requires finding a local distributor.
Toughened Glass Ltd: This company specialises in toughened glass and offers an online ordering system for cut-to-size glass, often with clear pricing and delivery options. They cater to both trade and domestic customers, focusing specifically on their namesake product.
- Key Features: Online cut-to-size ordering, toughened glass focus, clear pricing.
- Price: Quoted online based on dimensions and specifications.
- Pros: Online convenience, transparent pricing, specialisation.
- Cons: Limited to toughened glass, may not offer all glass types.
Glass Doctor (UK): Part of a larger franchise, Glass Doctor offers mobile glass repair and replacement services across the UK. Their website allows for online appointment booking and provides information on their various services, from windows to shower screens.
- Key Features: Mobile service, online booking, various glass repair/replacement services.
- Price: Quotes provided upon assessment; often competitive.
- Pros: Convenience of mobile service, broad range of repair work.
- Cons: Focus is more on repair/replacement than new custom units.
Custom Glass: A UK-based manufacturer and supplier of insulated glass units (IGUs) and other glass products. Their website provides details on their manufacturing capabilities and product range, often catering to trade but also accommodating specific domestic projects.
- Key Features: IGU specialisation, manufacturing capabilities, bespoke solutions.
- Price: Requires direct quote.
- Pros: Manufacturer direct, bespoke options, quality control.
- Cons: Less immediate online pricing, more geared towards larger orders.
Online Glass UK: This website provides an online platform to order various types of glass cut to size, including toughened, laminated, and mirrored glass. It aims for a straightforward ordering process.
- Key Features: Online cut-to-size configurator, wide range of glass types.
- Price: Instantly calculated online based on specifications.
- Pros: Ease of use, instant quotes, wide product selection.
- Cons: Relies on accurate self-measurement, potential for delivery costs.
Glass & Glazing Federation (GGF): While not a supplier, the GGF is the main trade association for the UK glass and glazing industry. Their website is an invaluable resource for finding reputable local glass companies and understanding industry standards. You can use their member directory to find accredited businesses that adhere to specific codes of practice.
- Key Features: Industry standards, consumer advice, member directory.
- Price: N/A (information resource).
- Pros: Helps ensure quality and reliability, provides consumer protection advice.
- Cons: Not a direct supplier, requires further research to find actual vendors.
Express Toughening: Offers a rapid service for toughened glass, often with online ordering and quick delivery options. They cater to urgent requirements and provide a clear online presence.
- Key Features: Fast turnaround, online ordering, focus on toughened glass.
- Price: Online quoting system.
- Pros: Speed, convenience, good for urgent needs.
- Cons: Primarily focused on toughened glass, limited product range.

How to Work with Ashtonglass.co.uk

Working with Ashtonglass.co.uk, based on their website, primarily involves traditional communication methods. Unlike modern online platforms that might offer instant quotes or direct purchasing, Ashton Glass Ltd emphasises direct contact to facilitate orders and enquiries. This approach suggests a more personalised service, which can be beneficial for complex or bespoke glass requirements.

Placing an Order or Making an Enquiry

The website explicitly states, “If you’d like to learn more about our services, or would like to place an order, please get in touch with us and we’ll be more than happy to help.” They provide three main ways to contact them:

By Phone: The phone number 0117 963 1355 is prominently displayed. This is likely the fastest way to get an immediate response and discuss specific needs or urgent orders.
By Email: An email address, [email protected], is provided. This method is suitable for detailed enquiries, sending specifications, or attaching drawings.
Online Contact Form: The website mentions “filling in our online contact form.” While the form itself isn’t immediately visible on the homepage, it can be accessed via the “Contact us” link. This offers a structured way to send your message.

What to Expect During the Process

Given the lack of online pricing or quoting tools, here’s what you might expect:

Initial Discussion: Be prepared to discuss your specific glass requirements, including dimensions, type of glass (sealed units, toughened, cut glass), and intended use. For domestic services, this might involve explaining your project (e.g., stained glass effect units, double or triple glazing specifications).
Quotation: After understanding your needs, they will likely provide a custom quotation. This process might take some time as they calculate material costs, cutting, toughening (if applicable), and labour.
Order Confirmation & Payment: Once you accept the quote, they will confirm the order details. Payment terms would typically be discussed at this stage. It’s advisable to clarify their payment methods and any upfront deposit requirements.
Fulfilment & Delivery/Collection: They highlight having their “own glass toughening plant,” which suggests they can fulfil orders “quickly and efficiently.” You should confirm lead times and whether delivery is available to your location or if collection is required.
After-Sales: The website doesn’t detail after-sales support or warranty information, so it’s prudent to inquire about these aspects during your initial contact.

Ashtonglass.co.uk Pricing

Based on the information available on ashtonglass.co.uk, there is no public pricing information provided for any of their glass products or services. This is a significant aspect of their online presence that differs from many modern businesses, especially those in the B2C (business-to-consumer) space.

Lack of Transparency

The absence of online pricing means that customers cannot get an immediate estimate or compare costs without directly contacting the company. This approach places the onus entirely on the customer to initiate contact for every pricing query, which can be time-consuming and might deter individuals who prefer quick, transparent access to cost details. Studiobe-arch.co.uk Review

Why This Approach?

There are several reasons why a business like Ashtonglass.co.uk might choose not to display prices:

Customisation: Glass products, especially cut-to-size, toughened, or bespoke sealed units, are highly customisable. Prices can vary significantly based on dimensions, glass type, thickness, coatings, finishes (e.g., leaded, Georgian effects), and volume. Providing a generic price list might be misleading or impractical.
Fluctuating Material Costs: The cost of raw materials can fluctuate, making it difficult to maintain consistently updated online prices.
Project-Specific Quotes: Many projects, particularly for trade and business customers, involve complex requirements that necessitate a detailed, tailored quote. This often includes consultation, site visits, and specific measurements.
Competitive Reasons: Some businesses prefer not to show prices publicly to avoid direct comparisons with competitors or to allow for negotiation based on the specific customer relationship.

How to Obtain a Price

To get a price from Ashtonglass.co.uk, you will need to:

Prepare Your Specifications: Have accurate measurements and details of the type of glass you need ready.
Contact Them Directly: Use the provided phone number (0117 963 1355), email ([email protected]), or the online contact form to submit your enquiry.
Request a Quote: Clearly state your requirements and request a detailed quotation. Be specific about whether you need supply only, or if any installation services are implied (though the website doesn’t explicitly offer installation).

Data Point: According to a 2022 survey by Statista, 60% of online shoppers consider pricing transparency as one of the most important factors when deciding on a purchase. While this data typically applies to retail, it highlights a broader consumer expectation that extends to service providers in the digital age.

Ashtonglass.co.uk vs. Competitors

When evaluating ashtonglass.co.uk against its competitors, especially those with a stronger online presence, it’s clear that Ashton Glass Ltd operates on a more traditional business model. While this might appeal to certain segments of the market, it also highlights areas where they differ significantly from modern, digitally-savvy glass suppliers.

Online Presence and User Experience

Ashtonglass.co.uk: Features an older website design. It lacks immediate online quoting or ordering capabilities, relying heavily on phone or email for enquiries. There’s no evident integration of customer reviews or social media.
Modern Competitors (e.g., Toughened Glass Ltd, Online Glass UK): Often boast contemporary, responsive website designs. They frequently incorporate online configurators for custom glass, allowing customers to get instant quotes and place orders directly through the website. Many also feature prominent customer testimonials, case studies, and active social media channels. This difference signifies a gap in digital convenience and transparency.

Pricing Transparency

Ashtonglass.co.uk: No prices are displayed online. All pricing requires direct contact and a custom quotation.
Modern Competitors: Many competitors, especially those selling cut-to-size glass, provide transparent pricing on their websites. This allows customers to compare costs quickly and make informed decisions without needing to engage in direct conversations initially. Some even offer price match guarantees.

Service Scope and Specialisation

Ashtonglass.co.uk: Specialises as “glass merchants” with their “own glass toughening plant,” indicating strong manufacturing capabilities for sealed units, toughened glass, and cut glass. They cater to both trade and domestic clients within a specific geographic area (Bristol, Bath, South Gloucester, North Somerset).
Competitors: Can range from large national distributors like Pilkington (focusing on manufacturing and broad product ranges) to smaller, highly specialised online retailers (e.g., for bespoke shower screens or balustrades) or local mobile repair services (like Glass Doctor). Some might offer installation services, which ashtonglass.co.uk doesn’t explicitly advertise. The advantage for Ashton Glass here is their local, direct manufacturing capability, which can mean quicker turnarounds locally.

Customer Engagement and Support

Ashtonglass.co.uk: Relies on direct phone/email contact. No visible customer review platform or interactive support features.
Modern Competitors: Often leverage live chat support, comprehensive FAQ sections, and robust CRM systems to manage customer interactions. Public review platforms (e.g., Trustpilot, Google Reviews) are commonly integrated, providing social proof and transparency.

Key takeaway: Ashtonglass.co.uk appears to be a traditional business with a basic online presence. Its strength lies in its local presence and manufacturing capability. However, for customers who prioritise digital convenience, instant information, and transparent pricing, more modern online glass suppliers and retailers might offer a more user-friendly experience. Boughton.co.uk Review

Ensuring Ethical Sourcing and Production in the Glass Industry

For consumers and businesses seeking to make ethically sound choices, understanding the sourcing and production practices within the glass industry is crucial. While Ashtonglass.co.uk’s website doesn’t delve into these details, the broader industry faces scrutiny regarding environmental impact, labour practices, and supply chain transparency.

Environmental Impact of Glass Production

Glass manufacturing is energy-intensive, primarily due to the high temperatures required to melt raw materials (sand, soda ash, limestone).

Energy Consumption: Furnaces operate at temperatures over 1500°C, leading to significant energy use and associated carbon emissions. A typical float glass plant can consume vast amounts of natural gas.
Raw Materials: While sand is abundant, its extraction can have local environmental impacts. Other materials like soda ash and limestone also require mining.
Recycling: Glass is 100% recyclable, and using cullet (recycled glass) in the manufacturing process significantly reduces energy consumption (by up to 25-30% for every 10% cullet used) and raw material needs. Many modern glass manufacturers heavily promote and utilise recycled content.
Pollution Control: Advances in furnace technology and pollution control systems are vital to minimise nitrogen oxides (NOx) and sulphur dioxide (SO2) emissions.

Labour Practices and Supply Chain Ethics

Ethical sourcing extends beyond environmental concerns to human rights and fair labour practices throughout the supply chain.

Fair Labour: This includes ensuring fair wages, safe working conditions, reasonable working hours, and the absence of forced or child labour. In some parts of the world, these standards can be challenging to monitor.
Conflict Minerals: While not directly relevant to glass (which is primarily silicon dioxide), the broader manufacturing sector considers sourcing materials from conflict-free zones.
Transparency: Reputable companies often engage in supply chain mapping and audits to ensure that their raw materials and components are sourced responsibly. Certifications from organisations like ISO (e.g., ISO 14001 for environmental management, ISO 45001 for occupational health and safety) can indicate a commitment to these standards.

What to Look For in a Glass Supplier

When choosing a glass supplier, consider asking about:

Recycled Content: Do they incorporate recycled glass (cullet) into their products? What percentage?
Energy Efficiency: What measures do they take to reduce energy consumption in their manufacturing process?
Certifications: Are they certified by relevant industry bodies for environmental management or quality?
Local Sourcing: Do they source raw materials or components locally where possible to reduce transportation emissions?
Labour Standards: What policies do they have in place to ensure ethical labour practices within their operations and supply chain?

While ashtonglass.co.uk does not explicitly detail these aspects on its homepage, it’s important for any consumer or business to consider these ethical dimensions when making purchasing decisions, regardless of the product. Asking direct questions to suppliers about their practices can help ensure that you support businesses aligned with ethical values. Thirstys.co.uk Review

FAQ

What services does Ashtonglass.co.uk offer?

Ashtonglass.co.uk offers specialist glass services for both trade and commercial customers, as well as domestic services. This includes sealed glass units, toughened glass, and cut glass, with options for single, double, and triple glazed units, including stained glass, leaded, and Georgian effects.

What areas does Ashtonglass.co.uk serve?

Ashtonglass.co.uk provides professional glass supply services throughout Bristol, Bath, South Gloucester, and North Somerset.

Does Ashtonglass.co.uk have its own manufacturing plant?

Yes, Ashtonglass.co.uk states that Ashton Glass Ltd has its own glass toughening plant, which enables them to fulfil orders quickly and efficiently.

How can I get a quote from Ashtonglass.co.uk?

To get a quote from Ashtonglass.co.uk, you need to contact them directly by phone (0117 963 1355), email ([email protected]), or by filling in their online contact form. They do not provide instant online pricing.

Is there pricing information available on Ashtonglass.co.uk?

No, there is no public pricing information or online quote system available on the ashtonglass.co.uk website. All pricing is provided upon direct enquiry. Estreetshops.co.uk Review

Can I order glass online from Ashtonglass.co.uk?

No, the website does not support online ordering. All orders must be placed by contacting them directly via phone, email, or their contact form.

Does Ashtonglass.co.uk offer installation services?

The website primarily states they “supply” high quality sealed glass units and cut glass. It does not explicitly mention offering installation services for domestic or trade customers. It’s best to confirm this directly with them.

What types of glazed units does Ashtonglass.co.uk supply?

Ashtonglass.co.uk supplies single glazing, and high-quality double and triple glazed units, including options for stained glass effect, leaded effects, and Georgian effects.

What is “CMS Accredited” mentioned on the website?

“CMS Accredited” likely refers to accreditation related to the Construction Material Standard or a similar industry standard, suggesting adherence to quality and performance benchmarks for their products.

How old is the Ashtonglass.co.uk website?

Are there customer reviews or testimonials on Ashtonglass.co.uk?

No, the ashtonglass.co.uk homepage does not feature customer testimonials or reviews.

Does Ashtonglass.co.uk have a gallery of past work?

Yes, the website includes a “GALLERY” section where they display examples of their past work.

What are the main contact methods for Ashtonglass.co.uk?

The main contact methods are phone (0117 963 1355), email ([email protected]), and an online contact form accessible through their “Contact us” page.

Are the legal policies on Ashtonglass.co.uk specific to the company?

The legal policies (Privacy Policy, Cookie Policy, Conditions of Use, Notice and Take Down Policy) are linked to a generic “hibustudio.com” domain, suggesting they are templated policies rather than specifically tailored to Ashton Glass Ltd.

What are the operating hours for Ashtonglass.co.uk?

The website does not explicitly state their operating hours. You would need to inquire about their business hours when you contact them. Sixsigma.co.uk Review

Does Ashtonglass.co.uk offer A, B, or C rated units?

Yes, Ashtonglass.co.uk states they offer “A, B and C rated units to cover all frame manufacturers requirements.” These ratings typically refer to energy efficiency.

What is the primary focus of Ashtonglass.co.uk?

Ashtonglass.co.uk’s primary focus is supplying high-quality sealed glass units and cut-to-size glass to both trade and private customers.

How quickly can Ashtonglass.co.uk fulfil an order?

Ashtonglass.co.uk states that having their own glass toughening plant means they can fulfil orders “quickly and efficiently.” Specific lead times would need to be confirmed upon enquiry.

Does Ashtonglass.co.uk offer bespoke glass solutions?

Yes, for domestic services, they state: “Just let us know your requirements and we’ll create double or triple glazing exactly to your specifications,” indicating they offer bespoke solutions.

What types of customers does Ashtonglass.co.uk serve?

Ashtonglass.co.uk serves both trade and commercial customers, as well as private domestic customers. 5starwebdesign.co.uk Review