When we bought our higgledy-piggledy renovation project I had a giant list of the work the work needed. One of the list items was replacement windows for the 1970s extension, which actually makes up the majority of living spaces.

The windows were cracked single glazed units with a cottage style frame splitting the glass into tiny panes. Initially we had hoped that since this section was not the adjoining 1700s stone cottage we could get away with using high quality uPVC windows in a heritage style.

However, as our home is in a Conservation Area, we quickly found this wasn’t the case. And so began an almost eight month battle, which ended up with us having to go with a option that cost us almost three times as much. This is why.

What does it mean that our house is in a Conservation Area?

There are Conservation Areas up and down the country; they are special designated zones in areas of historic interest. The general gist is that these areas no longer have the usual rights to permitted development, which allows other houses to build extensions, replace windows, make alterations (within certain criteria) and so on without local authority approval.

In a Conservation Area, even minor changes to the front of a property, like changing windows or adding cladding, need planning permission from the local planning department. Although some homeowners chance it with the view that no one will find out or hope that they can seek retrospective planning permission, this can cause huge issues down the line and it is technically a criminal offence.

Fortunately my partner and I are absolute sticklers for the rules anyway, plus we may eventually need to leave the area, and so we were diligent in including as much as we could in our planning application to maximise our chances of approval.

Although we were both keen to renovate and maintain the timber windows of our 1700s stone cottage, our1970s extension single glazing was a prime target for improving our energy efficiency and comfort in the house.

We hoped that, as the extension itself was inappropriate for the area, uPVC replacement windows might be approved, especially if they were in a heritage style that suited the rest of the village (and we've spotted lots of other local homes that have uPVC windows, even in their stone cottages).

The heritage-style windows we were keen on included details that are not often included in more modern-looking uPVC windows, including an astragal bar (a decorative feature applied to the interior and exterior surfaces to give the appearance of divided panes of glass), textured wood effect, bevels. Plus they offer replication of original functions (such as sliding sashes), which help them feel more inkeeping with an older property.

Unfortunately, this was nearly immediately rejected by our local planning department. Our desired uPVC windows were definitely a no-go.

As a result we needed to research timber alternatives that would be a lot more acceptable to the planners.

‘Timber is preferred and in many cases required simply because traditional materials are more in keeping with the historic setting,’ explains Theo Jones, Director at Fynn Architects. ‘Conservation areas and listed buildings are protected precisely because of their character, and windows are one of the most visually prominent elements. It's nicer to look at and nicer to touch, and I believe it's worth paying a little extra for, regardless of whether you're in a conservation area or not.’

Sadly, these timber options were going to be significantly more expensive.

Why were the timber windows so much more expensive?

By their very nature wooden windows are always more expensive than uPVC due to the cost of the raw materials and craftmanship required. Fortunately, I had set aside a large chunk of money from the sale of our old house that we could use in case the application for uPVC replacement windows was rejected.

In terms of cost differences, our initial quote for uPVC heritage-style flush casement windows was £7,738 from a local company and £16,051 from a national brand (this also included three patio doors). When the planning officer insisted on timber for our replacement windows, the national brand quote shot up to £29,594, almost twice as expensive. Although the local heritage uPVC company didn’t offer timber, another local supplier provided a cost of the timber windows at £24,656. Our almost 8k had tripled to 24k. Not a position anyone wants to be in.

Even though that cost increase smarted at the time, I do accept that timber windows are a significantly better material for our home and that will (hopefully) last for another 100 years.

‘Although timber typically costs more when installed, wooden window frames significantly increase property resale value and save money in the long term due to their extended lifespan and energy savings, which usually offset the higher costs over time,’ comments Joe Buckley, Founder of Heritage Joinery.

How we coped with the increase in costs alongside our other renovations

After years as a journalist covering all aspects of self build and renovation, and an experienced renovator, I was well versed in local planning policy and my partner and I had anticipated that the uPVC windows may be rejected. But we were hopeful, considering we were surrounded by other homes (still in the Conservation Area) with new heritage uPVC windows.

Just in case, we had already sought quotes from our local joiners for timber windows so we had partially come to terms with the additional cost and what this could mean for the rest of our renovation budget.

For those in a similar boat, I would still advise trying to get permission for uPVC replacement windows, especially if the cost of timber is well out of your price range.

However, although they cost significantly more, to say I’m delighted with our timber windows is an understatement. Knowing they can be refurbished and repainted when the time comes to give them another few decades of life is really encouraging for the rest of our renovation works. Plus the process has definitely made us less short-sighted in terms of costs versus what is best for the house as a whole.

Pivot doors can be a great alternative to traditional side-hung doors that you normally see at front and back entryways.

They may exude elegance but they’re actually a fairly simple mechanism that can instantly improve your home's connection to the outside world, while also adding some real wow-factor to your home's appearance. Plus they can be a great alternative to bifold doors.

But what do they cost, do they need an oversized opening or specialist installation, and are they suitable for to swap out when replacing any front door? I asked the experts to help you decide if this could be a stylish option for your home.

What actually is a pivot door?

Unlike standard doors that open using a side hinge, pivot mechanisms are set further into the door span at the top and bottom of the frame to support a large weight and size of leaf. They can be chosen to open either internally or externally, depending on your space availability and when opened there is a small gap to the side of the pivot, in addition to the usual walkable space.

High-end architects and designers began to utilise the grace and simplicity of pivot doors in domestic homes to add an extra wow-factor around a decade ago. 'In the past pivot hinges were used for very heavy doors and may still be needed for very very oversized doors but now most doors suitable for residential use can be either pivot or hinged,' explains Elizabeth Asaf, Designer at Urban Front. 'Pivot doors are also being used internally, too, to create a stylish divide between spaces.'

What are the pros and cons of pivot doors?

While pivot doors perform much of the same function as a regular side-hung door, they do offer some aesthetic and practical benefits.

First, their design means they can often bear the weight of a wide, heavier door, which might suit certain house styles better than others. Many contemporary, industrial or barn-style house designs use pivot doors to create a statement entryway.

When used at the rear of a house in place of a patio door, sightlines can be reduced which helps to create highly-desirable uninterrupted views of the garden,

However, this style of door can be more expensive than a side-hung door, although as they are becoming a more mainstream option this price is gradually reducing.

Pivot doors also require larger openings than side-hung doors to accommodate the same size of passageway when open. 'We get asked a lot for pivot doors to fit into openings which are too small,' comments Elizabeth Assaf. 'The best part of a pivot door is the way it opens but due to this the walkthrough is reduced and therefore the opening should be over 1.2m wide. If the outside area doesn't have enough space for the door to swing open into then that could be a restriction too.'

How to buy a pivot door

If you’ve got the space and it fits your style, you can buy pivot doors from most high-end door manufacturers, but they haven’t yet filtered down into the more high street retailers. Additionally, they’re generally only available in timber or aluminium so if you’re looking for a uPVC door they might not be for you.

In terms of cost, as these doors are usually made bespoke or at least with specialist installation, you’re looking at a higher price than if you were to buy a side-hung door. 'At Urban Front our pivot doors start from £6019 + VAT for a RAL painted door,' says Elizabeth Assaf, 'I believe it may be possible to buy good quality pivot doors in aluminium from about £4000.'

How are pivot doors installed?

If you do decide that a pivot door is the right option for your home, then you will need to understand how the installation process works. Installing a pivot door is a little more specialist than a traditional door and will require additional attention to detail in specification before the doors arrive on site.

Firstly, it is advised to have an opening clearance space of at least 1.2m, but ideally more to ensure a comfortable entryway that can also be accessible by wheelchair users.

If you are building an extension, then this could be easily incorporated into the design plan, but if you are remodelling an existing door opening, then there will be additional building work required to expand the original aperture.

The structure around the doorframe might need to be reinforced if the door leaf is particularly oversized and, as pivot doors tend to have a completely level threshold, the drainage immediately outside the doorway may need to be improved to avoid water ingress.

FAQs

Can you have a pivot door as a front door?

You can certainly install a pivot door as a front door. In fact, they create an immediate impact and kerb appeal upon opening which suits modern-styled homes. Pivot front doors are usually designed with an oversized pull bar handle that drops the length of the leaf to give extra purchase if the door is particularly oversized.

How long should a pivot door last?

A pivot door should last just as long as any well-made, good quality door - anything upwards of 25 years and ideally 40+. Pivot doors are normally made of aluminium which has a much longer lifespan than uPVC, but they can also be made using timber, which will last even longer, so long as it is properly maintained (through sanding and painting/weatherproofing every few years).

If you're still undecided about installing a pivot door at your home, then make sure you also weigh up whether bifold or sliding doors might be a more suitable option instead.

It is often the original features that draw people to older properties, lending them character and charm that can be lacking in modern houses. Windows, in particular, are one of those elements of any home that will make or break its kerb appeal – all too often, original windows get replaced or updated in a totally unsympathetic way.

Many people don't realise that it isn't just the frame style and material that contributes to the look of a window, but the types of glazing used within them too. It is understandable to want to select glazing that will reduce heat loss, but when it comes to older windows, homeowners can find it hard to pinpoint the right solution.

If you are considering double glazing old windows but are unsure how this will affect their appearance – or if it is even possible – this guide is for you guide. As an experienced renovator and owner of an old house myself, I explain the pros and cons of making this upgrade and what the job entails.

Can you double glaze old windows?

If you are living in or renovating a period property that has its original windows in place, they may well be fitted with single glazing. While this type of glazing has a certain beauty about it, with its slight imperfections and rippling, it is not always the most comfortable to live with.

'Single glazing is one of the biggest sources of heat loss in homes,' reveals Becky Lane, CEO of home energy upgrade company Furbnow.

Terry Hill, MD at KLG Rutland, shares some other benefits of replacement glazing. 'Upgrading your period home’s windows and doors with modern replacements brings a host of long-term benefits including, improved energy efficiency, better security, reduced maintenance and possibly noise reduction,' he says.

While you can, in theory, fit double glazing into some older windows, is upgrading from single to double glazing always such a good idea?

'Sometimes the frames simply cannot handle it as many older timber sash and casement windows were not designed to withstand the weight or thickness of modern sealed systems,' warns Andrew Haydon, director at Simply Plastics.

Will double glazing old windows ruin their character?

Even if, after investigating whether or not the frames of your old windows are up to the job of carrying the weight of double glazing (something a skilled joiner should be able to advise you on) you find you can go ahead with the task, there is still the small matter of appearance. In short, will switching out your single glazing for double in a bid to make an old house warmer spoil the look of your windows?

'Double glazing older types of windows does make sense in some homes, but it may not always be the best option, particularly if the original joinery and detailing are still present and if the window proportions, glazing bars, and traditional putty lines are contributing to both the exterior and interior of the property,' explains Andrew Haydon.

'Retrofitting double glazing can disrupt glazing bars, sightlines, and frame proportions, which often takes away from the original appearance, especially where fine details are part of a window’s character rather than decoration alone.'

What are the alternatives to double glazing for older homes?

If your windows are not suitable for double glazing, or you have come to the conclusion that adding double glazed units would ruin their character, you still have options that can help keep your house feel warmer and reduce your energy bills.

'A better alternative in these cases is secondary glazing, which allows you to keep the original window precisely as it is,' says Andrew Haydon. 'This method works by installing a separate pane on the internal side of the existing window, often fitted into its own narrow frame.

'When installed internally, secondary glazing keeps the original window intact and fully functional for ventilation, cleaning, and later repairs,' continues Andrew. 'This allows you to perform routine maintenance without interruption, remove panels during the warmer months if necessary, and still reach the original glass without the need for specialised tools. It also helps reduce draughts, which in turn limits heat loss and lowers energy use by preventing heating systems from working harder than necessary – in fact, it can even enhance daily comfort to a level that is comparable to double glazing.

'And, finally, because of the larger air gap between panes, sound control is improved so it’s also frequently used in residences close to busy roads, train lines, or town centres. When combined with draught-proofing and some basic repairs, rooms will feel warmer, quieter, and have less condensation without replacing or ruining windows that still have many years of use left.'

Is it better to replace old windows rather than upgrade the glazing?

There are cases where original windows will just be in too bad a condition to make restoration a viable option. In these cases replacement windows will be needed but this should only really be a last resort and needs to be done with great care – changing windows can, in some cases, totally strip a period house of its character. This will also usually be a more expensive route.

That said, if you take the time to research the options and find a joiner who can match the originals, replacement doesn't have to be a disaster.

'Replacing windows or doors in a period property doesn’t mean losing its soul,' reassures Terry Hill. 'With a sympathetic design such as heritage ranges, flush sash or modernised vertical sliding windows and professional installation, you can preserve your home’s historic charm and character while enjoying the comfort, efficiency and security of modern living.’

FAQs

Do you need planning permission to double glaze old windows?

Whether or not you will require planning permission to upgrade your windows very much depends on your house and the area you live in. In many cases, there will be no need to apply.

However, if you live in a listed building, you will almost certainly require listed building consent in order to make any changes. Additionally, if your house is located in a conservation area, you may also need to seek permission.

'If your home is listed or within a conservation area, certain restrictions may apply to how windows and doors can be replaced,' explains Terry Hill. 'Reputable installers should work closely with homeowners, local authorities and heritage officers to ensure compliance with conservation area regulations, listed building consent and building regulations for energy efficiency, ventilation and safety.'

'If you have a Victorian or period home these often have architectural features protected by heritage conservation rules,' picks up Becky Lane. 'You will need to work with conservation officers and heritage experts to choose a solution that preserves the character of the house – and consider reversible techniques that can be easily undone if necessary.'

If your home already has double glazed windows, or you are adding an extension, you might well be looking into double vs triple glazing. It is well worth checking out the pros and cons of each before making a decision as, in certain cases, making what can be an expensive swap won't be worth it.

We might still be in winter, but if your home has suffered with overheating during the summer, and you want to avoid it happening again this year, you'll need to find a suitable solution now.

Upgrading glazing can be one of the most expensive improvements you might make on your house. But it can also be the most worthwhile when it comes to your home's comfort levels, especially in the summer months. And so understanding the different types of glazing now available on the market will enable you to get the best product for your budget.

Whether you are thinking of adding large picture windows, a bank of new patio doors or a glass extension to your home, or are looking for a permanent solution to keep your home cool in summer, I’ve asked the experts for everything you need to know about solar control glass.

What is solar control glass and how does it work?

Solar control glass is simply a window that has a special coating that reduces the amount of solar radiation that is able to penetrate into the building. Essentially it works to keep spaces with large swathes of glazing to a comfortable temperature during warmer weather.

'Solar control glass features an advanced, microscopically thin coating on the inner face of the outer pane of glass that makes up a double or triple glazed unit,' explains Charlotte Gilbert from Morley Glass. 'This coating is composed using metallic elements which enable it to reflect and filter heat and sunlight (solar infrared radiation), reducing the amount that transmits through the glass.'

'In simple terms, it limits how much of the sun’s energy enters the room; this helps spaces stay bright without overheating, especially on large south or west-facing glazing,' adds Charles Lowe from IQ Glass.

'Solar gain is often regarded as extremely beneficial and it is considered in the calculations for the energy ratings of windows and doors as it is effectively ‘free’ passive energy provided by the sun, thus helping to keep our homes warmer naturally at cooler times of the year, lessening the demand on heating,' continues Charlotte Gilbert.

'However, it can contribute to overheating in summer. That can be a major problem, not only to our health and wellbeing, but because many people facing this issue may choose to install energy-demanding air conditioning systems to mitigate the effects – a trend that is seriously counterproductive in terms of the UK’s goal to reduce carbon emissions and combat climate change.'

Is solar control glass the same as low-E glass?

Although they might sound similar, low-E and solar control are different types of glazing. Charles Lowe advises: 'Low E glass is primarily designed to improve insulation by reflecting internal heat back into the room; this reduces heat loss in colder months. Solar control glass focuses on managing heat coming into the home from the sun; many modern specifications can combine both functions in one high-performance glazing build-up.'

Where can you use solar control glass?

Solar control glass could be installed in every window in a house, if you wanted, but due to the increase in cost, many choose to be selective and deliberate in their application of the special coating, such as on a glass extension or conservatory, large picture windows or patio doors. It might also be a worthwhile consideration if you are building an extension and want to add a roof window.

As solar control glass reduces overheating, it is best practice to determine which windows face south or west. These windows will receive the most sun throughout the day and heat the inside of your home as a result, and so will be the best for a solar control glass upgrade.

'It is most worthwhile where there are large areas of glazing, strong sun exposure, or rooms that regularly overheat; for example south or west-facing elevations, roof glazing and glazed extensions,' Charles Lowe comments. 'For smaller windows or shaded façades, the benefit can be less noticeable; it is often specified strategically rather than everywhere, balancing solar control with daylight levels and ventilation.'

'Any window or door exposed to prolonged sunshine is suitable for solar control glass, but this type of glass really comes into its element where you have elevations with large areas of glazing such as bi-fold doors, sliding doors or French doors,' adds Charlotte Gilbert. 'Think of a greenhouse – the more glass you have, the more solar gain possible, which is why it often needs to be controlled to maintain a stable climate in the home. So, for example, if you have a large span of bi-fold doors facing south west, solar control glass should be regarded not as a luxury but essential, representing an excellent investment in the long term.

'In windows and doors not exposed to strong sunlight, such as those which are north facing or shaded by trees or neighbouring buildings, it may be more appropriate to use standard low-E glass rather than solar control products. This is because excessive solar gain is unlikely to be an issue in these situations.'

What are the pros and cons of solar control glass?

As solar control glass is a specialist coating, the inclusion does often come at a higher price. While it’s very case-dependent in terms of how much it will cost, higher quality and better performance solar control glass will naturally come at a premium.

Also, some people don’t love the slight tint you do find with additional coatings on windows as well as the reduction in sunlight that does transmit into their interiors so might avoid using it for aesthetic purposes.

You might also be restricted as to which glazing supplier will be best suited to your windows upgrade

'The benefits of solar control glass for homes subjected to strong sunlight are clear,' explains Charlotte Gilbert. 'Its ability to help reduce the risk of overheating in the summer means less reliance on fans and air conditioners to cool down the home. That is energy-saving, thus contributing to a home that is more energy efficient and lower carbon, but it also means that the whole house is comfortable and usable all year round.

'But the benefits of solar control glass are not restricted to warmer, sunnier times of the year. The coating is dual purpose as it also insulates the home during winter, helping to stop heat loss through the double or triple glazed unit. That means there is little or no extra heating demand compared to standard low-E glass.'

Is solar control glass worth it?

The case for solar control glass is extremely persuasive, especially given what we know about our summers now and into the future getting warmer and higher in UV rays.

While it may not be worth the cost for every windows of every house, carefully considering it and weighing up the costs for any large swathes of glazing you might have will make your home more comfortable to live in year round.

'Costs vary depending on pane size, performance targets and the overall glazing system; solar control is typically a premium upgrade compared with standard double or triple glazing due to the additional coating technology,' says Charles Lowe. 'It is best priced as part of the complete glazing package because frame choice, safety requirements, spacer specification and installation detailing all affect the final figure.'

If you are after a budget-friendly alternative, you can buy a DIY film and install it yourself, but it can be a little fiddly to achieve a smooth result.

FAQs

Is solar control glass clear?

Unfortunately, solar control glass does generally have a slight tint to it, but it has been significantly clarified in the last decade or so. While this might not suit every aesthetic choice, many manufacturers these days so enable homeowners to adjust the tint and amount of solar radiation transmitted through the glass, giving close control over the end product.

However, a benefit of this tint could provide privacy to overlooked houses that would like to install bifold or sliding doors.

For homeowners wanting to improve the connection between the property and the garden, and to maybe add a touch of wow factor to their home, bifold doors are a popular choice. But before you decide, it's worth considering the alternatives to bifold doors that could help achieve your goals, whether you are extending or simply upgrading your existing doors.

Your choice of patio doors will not only depend on your budget, but also the age and style of your home, and how you want to use the space. In some cases, bifold doors will be the ideal choice, but in others, a different style might be better.

So whether you want to maximise natural light and views of the garden, or create the ultimate indoor/outdoor entertaining space, these options are well worth considering before you part with your cash.

1. Sliding doors

When it comes to the bifold vs sliding doors debate, both have their pros and cons. But if you're wanting to maximise views of your garden, sliding doors often have the edge over bifolds.

'For homeowners who want to maximise natural light, make living spaces feel larger and ensure unobstructed views of the outdoors, slimline aluminium sliding doors are proving popular,' says Shaun Cartwright from Aluprof Living. This type of patio door has a larger expanse of glass in the frames, which is key to achieving those panoramic views that are so sought after. However, they are not without their downside. Shaun says: 'The trade-off is that sliding doors work by gliding one panel behind another, which means one pane will always remain in place.'

2. Pocket doors

If you are looking to create a completely open, well, opening between your home and the garden, then pocket doors aren't just for inside your home — they can in fact be a suitable alternative to bifold doors.

The door leaves recess back into an envelope so are almost completely hidden from view when the doors are open.

This can be particularly suitable for contemporary homes, where a tidier option than a concertinaed bank of bifold doors stashed at the side of the aperture is preferred. However these can be costly to install.

3. Pivot doors

For a super stylish option, a pivot door is another alternative to bifold doors, especially if your keen on uninterrupted views and want to open your home up to the outdoors.

Liam Spencer, owner of Northallerton Glass, says: 'Pivot doors rotate on a pivot hinge mechanism, meaning that they can be made from larger, heavier panels so they can be opened wider.' However, Liam explains that this kind of door works best when installed in a sheltered location, which means that a door like this may not be suitable for all homes.

A door like this will also need a decent amount of clearance to open it, and so may not be the right choice for homes with smaller or awkwardly shaped gardens.

4. Slide and turn doors

For the benefits of both bifold and sliding doors, then it's worth considering slide and turn doors.

'Slide-and-turn systems (sometimes called slide-pivot) are enjoying some popularity at the moment too and they bridge the gap nicely between bifolds, sliding doors and French doors,' says Matt Shaw, Technical Director at Vibrant Doors. 'Panels slide along a track then park at the end vertically. You can open most of the width like a bifold but enjoy slimmer sightlines and a simple daily-use traffic door.'

5. Fixed glazing

Another suitable alternative might not be a door at all. If you want to enjoy uninterrupted views of the garden, but opening up the space entirely isn't your thing, then adding some picture windows, or fixed glazing, could be the ideal addition to your patio doors.

Incorporating some fixed glazing around a set of patio doors can also give the illusion of an indoor outdoor space, without having to open the aperture up to the elements — steel-framed doors and glazing can create a particularly striking look.

'For period homes or smaller openings, French doors with glazed sidelights remain a good-value and straightforward choice,' says Matt Shaw. 'You get a more traditional look, a convenient everyday ‘traffic door’ and plenty of natural light.'

FAQs

Why might a homeowner want an alternative to bifold doors?

All homes (and homeowners) are different and so a one-size-suits-all approach when it comes to patio doors isn't going to work.

'Bifold doors have been a stylish patio choice for many years,' explains Shaun Cartwright. 'However, during this time, innovation in home design been accelerating, providing homeowners with even more options to seamlessly blend their homes and gardens. Bifolds remain a popular choice for some, but the decision-making process today is driven by factors including personal design preference and door features such as zero thresholds, ease of operation or required space.'

Are bifold doors going out of style?

According to Matt Shaw, bifold doors definitely aren't going out of style. 'Bifolds aren’t over, they’ve just matured. Demand has broadened rather than vanished. In our experience, homeowners are choosing sliders for the ultra-slim, understated look and cleaner views when closed, but bifolds are still winning in the style stakes and when you want wall-to-wall opening on summer days for a stronger indoor-outdoor feel.

'Trends will always ebb and flow. The current tilt towards slim sliders is just more reflective of how folks are living their lives - there’s an appreciation of and a lot of value put in the uninterrupted view you get through the expansive glazing of sliding doors. But, if your priority is maximising the size of an opening out onto a terrace you use constantly and you want them to make a statement while doing it, bifolds remain a solid option.'

If you're choosing new patio doors, then you'll need to choose the right type of glazing. We've compared double vs triple glazing to help you make the right choice.

If your windows are due to be replaced, you'll need to carefully consider all the options available to you. And when it comes to the glazing in particular, it's important to assess whether triple glazing is worth it in your home.

When weighing up double vs triple glazing, the right option for your home will largely depend on your efficiency goals and available budget.

But ultimately, is the extra expense associated with an additional pane a sensible investment? We asked the experts to find out.

Is triple glazing worth it?

There's a sizeable cost difference between double and triple glazed windows as Liam Spencer, owner of Northallerton Glass, explains: ‘As a general estimate, triple glazing can cost around 30% to 50% more than double glazing. An average double glazed window may cost roughly £325, compared to £485 for a triple glazed window, with a £160 difference per window between the two.’

So you'll understandably want to make sure you are going to reap added benefits if you are going to fork out more to buy and install triple glazed units.

'The extra expense of triple glazing can be worth it, as they can be two and a half times more efficient than older double glazed windows,' adds Liam. And a modernised home with an improved EPC rating could also be worth more if you are planning on selling.

However, for some triple glazing won't be the right solution, according to home heating expert Nicholas Auckland: 'Triple glazing can be worth it, but it's not always necessary for every home, especially if you're tight on budget. It's definitely best to consider a whole-house approach to energy efficiency, rather than a standalone upgrade.

'I recommend upgrading standard or low quality double glazing to high quality A-rated double glazing before opting for triple glazing.'

Can all homes benefit from triple glazing?

Before you invest in triple glazing, it's worth remembering that some homes will benefit from it more than others.

So you'll need to carefully assess how the benefits of triple glazing will apply to your specific home and circumstances.

Energy efficiency

If you are looking to improve your home's energy efficiency and you are planning on staying in your home for the foreseeable future, then triple glazing could be a good option.

Liam explains: 'A standard double glazed window has an average WER (windows energy rating) of A, with A+ being the highest available most often. In comparison, triple glazed windows can have an average WER of A++, and upgrading to triple glazing can result in up to 50% more energy efficiency.'

But to get the most out of the investment and maximise comfort levels, your home will need to be pretty airtight in the first place.

In an old, draughty property, installing triple glazing could be a bit of a waste of money unless you bring in some serious draught-proofing ideas alongside their installation, which could add significantly to the cost.

From a temperature regulation point of view, triple glazing can be effective, but you are likely to feel the benefits more in a colder climate than one that doesn't necessarily see extremes of temperature.

The best option is to speak to your glazing provider about the energy efficiency of different glazing types on offer as you may be able to achieve your goals with a double glazed unit, with potential a specialist glass coating, without having to go to the expense of triple glazing.

Security

With the extra thickness and weight that comes along with a third pane, triple glazing needs to be housed in a robust frame. This can add to it's security credentials, which can be a huge plus point for homeowners.

However, that additional sturdiness also means extra weight, which can make triple glazed windows more challenging to open.

Before opting for triple glazing to improve security alone, it's worth considering how you can maximise these credentials with a double-glazed unit first, especially if you are looking to keep costs as low as possible.

Noise reduction

If outside noise is a problem in your home, then triple glazing may be a worthy investment.

Liam says: 'Certain homes may benefit more from installing triple glazing than others. For example, a property in a noisy area will benefit more from triple glazing due to their superior soundproofing qualities, as the sound has to penetrate through an additional pane of glass. This can be useful if you live near an airport or under a flight path, or by a busy road.'

According to the Federation of Master Builders, triple glazed windows can reduce external noise by an additional 10 decibels compared to double glazed windows.

For really troublesome noise, it's also worth considering paying extra for special acoustic glass.

But before you commit, it's worth comparing the soundproofing credentials of high spec double glazing against those of triple glazing, as in some cases, the double glazing may be all you need.

How to maximise the benefits of triple glazing

If you are going to pay extra for triple glazing, it's worthwhile paying attention to the potential return on your investment.

If, after speaking to glazing experts, you find that triple glazing can solve your specific issues better than high quality double glazing, then it's likely to be a sound choice.

After all, improving how you live in and interact with your home can be priceless. And if triple glazing can have a positive impact on your energy bills at the same time, then all the better.

But to get the most out of your triple glazing, it's best to adopt a whole house approach as Nicholas explains: 'For the standard home you might not see a significant return on investment unless you’re upgrading every element of the home's insulation.'

However, if you are hoping to recoup the initial costs in the form of reduced energy bills, you'll need to think long-term. If you want to install triple glazing but are planning on selling up in the short-term, you are unlikely to maximise the benefit of those lower bills.

Your front door serves an important purpose, both aesthetically and functionally. Getting a door that looks right is crucial – it’s one of the first things people see as they enter your home.

But front door ideas need to be about more than looks. Your doorway also needs to provide a secure, thermally efficient entrance that keeps thieves out and precious warmth in.

If you’re choosing a replacement front door for your home, there’s a host of materials, styles and sizes to choose from. Here, we take a closer look at the benefits and key considerations involved when installing a composite door.

What is a composite door?

“As its name suggests, a composite door has a structure which utilises a number of different materials to maximise their different strengths and benefits,” says Steve Sandell, a technical manager at Endurance Doors.

Even within the composite door family, there’s various options for what the rigid outer skin of the door is made from, in addition to its core. Each of these comes with its own set of pros and cons, so it’s important to do your research before deciding on which model to install so you can get the best match for your house.

What is a composite door made from?

Composite doors can be engineered from a selection of materials. The heart of the door panel is the core, which is typically made from GRP (glass reinforced plastic), timber or polyurethane foam. The core is surrounded by an outer skin typically made from GRP or uPVC, resulting in a low-maintenance, weatherproof casing. 'This also enables impressive design freedom in terms of colours and finishes, such as woodgrain effects,' says Steve.

It's worth noting that not all composite doors are built the same – different manufacturers use different materials for the core and outer skin, so it’s important to check out the technical details before deciding on a door based purely on appearance. 'A Rockdoor composite door uses an aluminium inner frame and high-density polyurethane foam, resulting in a high-density core which is 60% stronger than your standard composite door,' says Lea Butler,from Rockdoor.

On the other hand, a composite door from Endurance comes with a solid timber core. 'The use of solid timber increases the door’s cost, but it delivers more rounded benefits in terms of thermal efficiency, acoustic insulation, intruder resistance and durability, meaning this greater outlay is money well spent,' says Steve.

Is a composite front door a good idea?

Pros of a composite front door

This type of entrance comes with numerous advantages. For starters, the multi-layered construction of a composite door means it’s extremely strong. Plus, having multiple layers provides better insulation than you’d get in a slimmer, single-layer door, so the amount of street noise coming into your home is reduced.

There’s a wealth of design options, too, whether you want to fit a contemporary, traditional or cottage-style door. Depending on your supplier, it’s possible to add various door furniture, including handles, letterboxes and glazing to create a tailored aesthetic. If you’re keen to recreate the warm appeal of wood without the required maintenance, it’s also possible to install a composite door with a grained texture that mimics the real thing.

Another advantage of composite doors is the minimal upkeep that’s required. 'Composite doors are among the easiest to look after,' says Rachel Munby from Anglian Home Improvements. 'Homeowners simply just need to wipe them down regularly and keep the seals and hinges clear of debris.'

If your goal is to stop heat escaping your home in the drive to keep energy bills down, a composite door could provide the ideal solution, as the core at the centre of the panel acts an insulator that minimizes heat transfer.

'The robust construction of composite doors makes them very secure,' says Steve. 'They are highly impact resistant and very difficult to break through, even when using tools like a sledgehammer.'

Cons of a composite front door

Of course, there are certain scenarios where a different type of door might be a better fit for your home. For instance, if you live in a historic home or in a conservation area, you might be required to install a timber door that’s authentic to the property’s original appearance. Composite doors are also more expensive than uPVC, so this will need to be factored into your budget.

Size may also mean a different material would be better. 'If you’re looking for a door to fit a particularly large or small aperture, then aluminium may be the best material choice,' says Steve. 'Aluminium door leaves can typically go much wider than either uPVC or composite.'

How much does a composite door cost?

When purchasing products to update your home, you get what you pay for – and composite doors are no exception. 'An entry-level composite door may cost as little as £1,200, but you’ll get what you pay for in terms of quality, performance and craftsmanship,' says Steve. 'A top of the range composite door may cost as much as £4,000, but you’ll get much more for your money.'

When investigating the options from different suppliers, it’s always worth checking exactly what is included with your door. It may be that the door frame and furniture need to be purchased on top of the panel itself.

Where to buy a composite door

These retailers offer a range of composite doors in various styles, colours and materials:

• Anglian Home Improvements
• Eurocell
• Endurance Doors
• Everest
• Rockdoor
• Wickes

Is a composite door better than uPVC?

'uPVC doors are always a popular choice, as the style options come with a wide range of colour options to suit taste,' says Rachel from Anglian Home Improvements. 'They’re secure and require little onward maintenance as the construction material will not fade or rot due to weather conditions.'

A door made from uPVC is typically cheaper than a composite door, too – ideal if you have a tight budget. However, while a uPVC door offers some of the same low-maintenance properties as a composite solution, ultimately the robust, multi-layer construction of the latter makes it stronger and more durable – which is why it costs more.

FAQs

How are composite doors installed?

All the suppliers we spoke to agreed that your composite door should be fitted by an accredited professional. 'Professional installation is essential, especially for fire doors, which require certified installers,' says Chris Moorhouse, category director of Timber, Building, Décor and Gardens at Wickes. 'All doors come with manufacturer installation instructions. When hiring a professional, look for certifications like FENSA, TrustMark or Which? Trusted Trader.'

FENSA is a government-authorised scheme that regulates companies fitting windows and doors to ensure they comply with current Building Regulations. All FENSA approved professionals are regularly assessed to ensure they continue to meet the required installation standards.

Another professional accreditation to look out for when looking for an installer is Certass membership. This government-approved body is responsible for regulating the double-glazing industry, ensuring all installations meet the required standards laid out by Building Regs.

'Composite doors weigh more than you would think and can be extremely difficult to fit if you’re not experienced,' says Lea from Rockdoor. 'Poor installation often results in issues later down the line, such as stiff doors, and doors dropping leading to the door not opening and closing correctly, causing damage.'

When starting your search for a skilled and experienced installer, your retailer’s website is usually the best place to begin. Most suppliers work with a selection of trusted installation companies you can choose from based on your postcode.

Do composite doors need painting? 

Due to the weather-resistant nature of your composite door’s outer skin, it should never need repainting. It’s always worth checking with your supplier whether any additional protective coatings have been applied to the door panel, as some finishes will help your door stand the test of time better than others.

'Composite doors can last over 30 years with proper care – they’re able to withstand everyday knocks and bumps and should not crack or peel over time,' says Rachel. 'From a maintenance perspective, composite doors are among the easiest front and back door types to look after – they just need to be wiped down regularly and the seals and hinges kept clear of debris.'

If you are upgrading your front door to a composite model, you might also be considering replacement windows at the same time. Our guide can help.

Your house’s front door doesn’t just provide kerb appeal and a good first impression — it also plays an essential role in security and how warm the house stays during cold weather.

The process of choosing a new front door requires more than just an opinion on colour and design — you will need to factor security and insulation, so your house remains warm in winter, into your front door ideas too. Aluminium doors are one of the most popular options available right now, but how do they weigh up against cost-effective uPVC and aesthetically-pleasing timber?

Are aluminium front doors any good?

'Aluminium front doors give a slick, modern appearance, are strong, have good thermal properties and come in a huge amount of colours, styles and finishes,' begins Matt Higgs our managing director at Kloeber. 'The front door to your home can give your property personality and can be a reflection of you.'

Pros of aluminium front doors

• Thermal performance: Modern aluminium doors are known to be really good insulators as the design usually includes foam cores and polyamide thermal breaks. These additions help to keep the cold air out and the warm air in during extreme weather, ensuring a consistently comfortable temperature inside the house.
• Strength: 'Aluminium front doors are generally very strong, the multi-chamber profiles create strength and rigidity,' continues Matt Higgs. 'In terms of strength a good quality aluminium is up there with timber as one of the strongest materials for door frames.'
• Style: As with timber or uPVC doors, aluminium doors are available in all manner of shapes, styles and colours. Premium quality aluminium doors will be powder coated in the chosen colour, giving a smooth low-maintenance finish.
• Low-maintenance and durability: Aluminium requires little-to-no maintenance, making them a fantastic option compared with timber, which needs to be repainted every few years. Good aluminium doors should last at least 35 years, but many premium products will last longer.

Cons of aluminium doors

• Price: When it comes to how much a front door costs, aluminium is a mid-range material, but the additional cost of aluminium might be prohibitive for some. uPVC doors are typically cheaper, although they might not offer the same level of benefits. The average cost of an aluminium door can be between £1,400 to £2,500.
• Corrosion potential: In coastal areas, aluminium might suffer from corrosion due to the salt in the air. A decent quality powder coating will better protect from this issue.
• Minimal changes: Once aluminium front doors are installed, you can’t really change or update it. So, if styles move on in the next two or three decades, you will find it difficult to repaint or adapt to modernise the door.

Are aluminium doors better than uPVC?

As we've seen with uPVC vs aluminium windows, the main differences between uPVC and aluminum front doors are cost, thermal performance, strength, and lifespan. uPVC, although cheaper on average at around £600, will need to be of a higher quality to really compete with the advantages of aluminium doors.

'Aluminium is significantly stronger when compared to other popular front door materials such as uPVC,' says Martin Burgess from Vufold. 'This strength means aluminium doors are less prone to warping, contracting, or expanding with temperature changes. This results in a strong, secure door that will open and close smoothly for many years.'

Matt Higgs continues: 'Maintenance wise, aluminium is the best material, all you need to do is keep it clean and it's unlikely that you'll ever have any issues. Timber will require some maintenance over the years and uPVC will deteriorate over time, lasting the least amount of time.;

A top-end uPVC door with increased thermal performance will likely cost around £1,200, but won’t have the additional strength that aluminium provides. The additional costs of an aluminium front door should be considered alongside the extra years of use they will offer, compared with uPVC, which usually lasts around 25 years before degrading.

Are aluminium front doors expensive?

Although aluminium doors have a higher price tag than uPVC doors, they’re still cheaper than timber doors making them a good mid-range option. However, the upper end of aluminium doors can vary wildly, depending on finish, glazing, higher thermal performances and unique designs.

'The average cost of an aluminium front door is around £1,400, depending on the door design and accessories,' advises Martin Burgess. However, Matt Higgs suggests it could be higher: 'A good quality aluminium front door will start at around £2,500 and can cost as much as £7,000 - 8,000 depending on the size, style and features. On average, I'd allow around £3,500 - £4,500 for a higher-end door.'

Overall costs can be reduced by choosing a simple design with an off-the-shelf colour. Always compare at least three quotes from different suppliers to find the best product for your budget.

Where can you buy aluminium doors from?

• Kloeber
• Vufold
• Anglian
• Velfac
• Origin Global
• Just Value Doors

FAQs

Can you install your own aluminium front door?

Yes, you can install your own aluminium front door, but only if you’re confident in your DIY abilities. Some companies will provide the door with an assembly kit, while other will specify if a professional is required. Aluminium doors can be very heavy, so it’s best to get at least one other person to assist.

Can you paint an aluminium door?

You can repaint an aluminium door by either sending to a professional, who will use a spray to ensure a consistent finish, or opt to take on the job DIY, which can be a time-consuming process to achieve a decent result.

The door will need to be cleaned with soapy water and a microfibre cloth, carefully sanded, primed using multiple thin coats, and, finally, painted using an epoxy or acrylic product. A paint sprayer, like this Bosch model from B&Q, could help you get a flawless finish. You can also choose to seal the door to better protect against UV, corrosion and extreme weather.

If a new front door isn't on the cards just yet, you can try these ways to make your front door look more attractive instead.

Picture windows have seen a huge surge in popularity in recent years with more and more homeowners catching on to their many benefits.

These types of windows do far more than let in oodles of natural light – they also act as an architectural feature in their own right and can even double up as a cosy reading nook or window seat with the best views in the house. If you are currently considering replacement windows then this is a style well worth looking into.

If all of this sounds like something you want a piece of, our guide is here to explain everything you need to know about this style of window, from where they work best to how much they are likely to set you back cost-wise.

What is a picture window?

Before getting into how to go about getting a picture window in place, it is crucial to understand exactly what they are. It is also useful to be aware that they are also sometimes referred to as fixed windows.

'Large single-pane windows with slender frames are commonly known as picture windows because they perfectly frame the view,' explains Edward Stobart, technical sales manager at IDSystems.

'With slim frames and more glass, picture windows have become a hugely popular option for those undertaking extension or renovation projects,' continues David. 'Whilst the picture window itself is almost always a fixed window to reduce the amount of visible frame, for larger fixed windows there is the potential to incorporate opening sashes at one side to allow for ventilation.'

What types of glazing can you use for picture windows?

Just as with other styles of windows, there are several types of glazing you can have fitted into your picture window, with the main two being double and triple glazing.

Both offer good thermal efficiency, with triple glazing offering more than double. However, it is useful to note than for most UK homes, double glazing will usually perform just fine, plus it is more affordable and lightweight.

If you are aiming for particularly high levels of thermal efficiency, for example if you are retrofitting to make your home more energy efficient or even building to Passivhaus standards, live in a very exposed setting or are concerned about soundproofing, then triple glazing might be your best option.

What are the pros and cons of picture windows?

If you're extending, then incorporating some wow-factor extension design features might be high up on your wish list. But as with any type of window there are a couple of points to consider when deciding whether a picture window is right for your home, your extensions ideas and your needs. To help with this decision, it is useful to be aware of their pros and cons.

Pros of picture windows

• Energy efficient
• Available in huge sizes so let in lots of light
• Suitable for both modern and traditional homes
• Give uninterrupted views
• Cheaper than bifold or sliding doors
• Opportunity for window seat

Cons of picture windows

• Rarely available off-the-shelf in standard sizes
• Require a good view to be worthwhile

Where is the best place to install a picture window?

Positioning is key when it comes to making the most of picture windows – obviously they will need to be installed in a spot where they can take maximum advantage of any views of your garden ideas brought to life.

'Picture windows work best on larger apertures, which typically come from newly formed openings in extensions or by removing brickwork below an existing window to make the opening significantly larger,' explains Edward Stobart. 'Simply replacing an existing window with a single, large fixed frame can make it harder to create the much sought-after picture window look – although it depends on the project.'

There is also nothing to say that a picture window should be fitted on one wall only – those that are designed to wrap around corners look stunning as well as offering multi-dimensional views and pulling in extra light.

'For an eye-catching design feature, frameless glass-to-glass corners provide a real ‘wow-factor’ and create stunning panoramic views by removing the need for a window frame in the corner of the room,' explains Edward.

How big can picture windows be?

One of the most appealing aspects of picture windows is how big they can be.

'For those considering a picture window for their home, the standard rule is the bigger the better,' states Edward Stobart. 'More glass means more light let in as well as more of the view out – whether that be overlooking the garden or making the most of views over the countryside or coastline.

'Over the past 20 years as glass technology has developed, larger and larger double or triple-glazed units have become more readily available for domestic projects, allowing for bigger and bigger windows,' continues Edward. 'At the same time, utilising aluminium as a frame material has allowed for narrower profiles with enhanced performance and rigidity.'

So just how big are we talking? 'Typically, for residential properties, a picture window would be as close to full height from floor to ceiling as possible, although opting to include a window seat – which is one of the biggest interior design trends at the moment – would reduce the height,' explains Edward. 'If space allows, then a width of 1.2m+ allows for optimal views.'

Are picture windows energy efficient?

Who isn't after a few energy saving tips for the home at the moment? How energy efficient a picture window will be largely depends on the type of glazing you opt for, as well as your choice of frame material.

That said, the fact that they are fixed can really help with thermal efficiency when compared to other types of window as this means that they are totally sealed within the frame.

Having new windows installed is the perfect time to assess the draught-proofing ideas throughout the rest of your house too.

What's the difference between a bay window and a picture window?

There can be some confusion between bay window ideas and picture windows but there are actually some key differences that separate the two.

Unlike most picture windows, bay windows extend out from the wall of a house and are made up of three windows which can be casements, sash or fixed. They tend to be more difficult to retrofit than picture windows as well as more expensive.

What is the average cost of a picture window?

If you are worrying about the cost of a new picture window, the good news is that they are certainly not as expensive as some of your other options for glazing that connects your interior spaces to the outside, including patio doors.

'Fixed-frame windows offer a cost-effective alternative to large sliding or bifold doors,' reassures Edward Stobart.

It is really hard to give an exact cost here as there are so many factors that will influence what you pay, including the material the frame is made from, the glazing you choose and the size of the window you opt for.

As a rough guide, fixed window costs tend to hover around £500/m2 for supply only.

Can you install a picture window yourself?

While some experienced DIYers do tackle the task of installing a picture window themselves, professional fitting is always going to be the safest option – this is not one of those easy DIY projects. You should also check that you won't be invalidating any warranties by carrying out DIY installation.

If you are fitting a new picture window into an existing opening of the same size, then things will be far simpler than if you need to expand (or reduce) the size of the opening.

If you plan on fitting a very large picture window, this will not be a solo job either.

FAQs

Is a picture window a good idea?

In the majority of cases a picture window will always be a good idea – plus, if you are wondering how to add value to your home, it really will help matters.

Of course, its positioning will be key – there is little point in fitting one into a wall facing a brick wall, for example. You will also need to think through window dressings and your curtain ideas as, depending on the orientation of the room you are installing it into, a large opening such as this will bring in lots of sunshine at certain times of the day.

And, finally, if you want an opening window, you might be better off looking at bifold or sliding doors instead.

Where can you buy picture windows?

There are several highly regarded suppliers of picture windows, including: IDSystems, Kloeber and Origin.

Picture windows really are one of the biggest home renovation trends going right now, but don't let that fool you into thinking they are just a flash in the pan thing – this is one investment that will last you for many years to come.

If you want to boost your home’s usable square meterage, using the space underneath the roof is a great way to do so – and dormer windows could make a conversion feasible. And it’s these projecting roof windows that make a bungalow a chalet bungalow instead with bedrooms above the ground floor.

A loft conversion or rooms in the roof gain both extra head height and useful floor space with a dormer window as part of the design. Meanwhile, from the exterior, a good dormer design will complement the architecture and proportions of your home.

To help you understand how this type of window can expand space at home and look good from outside, we’ve put together all the details you need about dormer windows below.

What is a dormer window?

In it's simplest terms, a dormer window is a vertical window that projects from the slope of a roof and has its own roof. Dormer windows can be used to bring light in to a converted loft, but while a rooflight could do the same, the added benefit of a dormer is that, because of its design, one of these windows creates additional headroom and boosts the useful floor area of a room in the roof.

There are different types of dormer window, and these differences mostly come to to the shape of the dormer's roof. The most common is the gable-fronted dormer window, which has a pitched roof sloping to either side.

But a dormer window might alternatively have a hipped roof of three sloping planes that meet at the ridge. There are also flat roof dormers with a more or less horizontal surface, or shed dormers where a flat roof slopes in the same direction as the roof but at a shallower angle. An eyebrow dormer or eyelid dormer, meanwhile, has no sides, but its roof curves up and over the window.

Are dormer windows a good idea?

Dormer windows are frequently used for loft conversions, but they can also be a good solution for those constructing one-and-a-half storey homes when planning restrictions impose height restrictions.

Pros of a dormer window

• Additional headroom and a boost to usable floor area in a loft conversion
• Daylight and views for a room in a roof
• Better ventilation
• A well-designed dormer window can improve the external appearance of a home

Cons of a dormer window

• An inappropriate design that’s too large or doesn’t complement a home’s architecture or its materials can spoil its external appearance
• A loft conversion with a dormer window starts at a higher cost than a conversion that uses only rooflights
• Additional maintenance at roof level will be necessary

Do I need planning permission for a dormer window?

You may be able to add a dormer window to your home without planning permission under permitted development (PD) provided you abide by its limits and conditions. ‘On properties that are not listed and not in a conservation area, it is possible to minimise planning risk and maximise the dormer size using permitted development rights,’ says Andrew Mulroy, director at Mulroy Architects. ‘You can add a dormer up to 40m3 to the side or rear of a terraced house and up to 50m3 in similar locations on a detached house.’

However, be mindful that permitted development rights can be removed and in any case you should always check the full details of what is permitted with your local planning authority and apply for planning permission if necessary.

Bear in mind, too, that a new dormer window is subject to building regulations whether or not you require planning permission.

How much does a dormer window cost?

What you can expect to pay for a dormer window depends on its size and the type of window. However, the popular option of a gable-fronted dormer fitted with a uPVC window might cost between £800 and £1,200, according to Checkatrade.

Often a dormer window will be an element of your total loft conversion costs, however, and a rear dormer loft conversion starts from around £55,000.

What are the dos and don'ts of dormer windows?

• Do keep dormer windows in proportion with the roof
• Do choose materials carefully, to complement the rest of your home
• Do choose a style that suits the style and age of your property
• Do consider insulation carefully to avoid a bulky look
• Don't go too big, as this can overpower the overall look of your home
• Don't ignore the style and pitch of the existing roof. This can affect how harmonious the end result is.

FAQs

Will you need a dormer window for your loft conversion?

Some loft conversions won’t require a dormer window. ‘If your loft space is large enough then the addition of skylights is the most economic and suitable option for your loft conversion project,’ explains architect George Omalianakis of GOAStudio.

However, this isn’t always the case. ‘Often enough loft spaces are simply not large enough and in addition to ventilation, light and view requirements, you will need more head height and more usable space,’ George says. Dormer windows can therefore be a necessity.

There is also the issue of the staircase. ‘For the conversion of your loft you will need to introduce a new staircase from the floor below, and this means that you need to satisfy the requirements of the relevant building and fire regulations,’ says George. ‘These requirements determine the size of the loft landing, ask for a two metre minimum head height above the new staircase, seek the introduction of fire doors across the house, and set the distance between the last step of the staircase and the new loft door. Often a new dormer roof extension is necessary to create the right amount and type of space you need to meet these legal requirements.’

Can you put a dormer window on any house?

In theory you could add a dormer extension to any type of single or double pitched roof, says George Omalianakis.

‘Typically you need no additional foundations, the frame of the dormer tends to sit on the existing roof rafters, and often enough you can add a dormer to any part of the rear part of your roof to suit your requirements,’ he explains.

And George offers a rule of thumb: ‘The higher the existing floor to ceiling height is (to the underside of the ridge) in your loft, the more the useful space you will be able to add with a dormer extension.’

What’s the difference between a dormer and a gable window?

A gable window fits into the triangular section of a house’s wall at the end of a pitched roof. It typically follows the roofline. It’s also known as a gable-end window. One of these windows is vertical and can bring generous illumination to upper levels of a home.

Although a dormer window is also vertical, it differs from a gable window because of its position, projecting from the roof slope, and because it has its own roof.

If you're considering converting your loft, it's worth thinking about whether you should opt for an extension or a loft conversion, and which is better for your home and budget.

If your home needs new windows or you’re extending, considering the merits of uPVC vs aluminium windows is likely on your agenda.

Replacement windows of both materials are widely available and, if you’re replacing old glazing, windows made with either frame can bring the benefits of a warmer home and lower bills. Both are available for many types of window, too.

But uPVC and aluminium windows each have pros and cons that it’s important to weigh up to make the best choice for your home and, here, we’ve set them head to head, so you have the knowhow to decide.

What’s the difference between uPVC and aluminium windows?

Both uPVC and aluminium windows can be sound choices for your home, but these are the differences between the two material options from cost to lifespan.

Pros of uPVC windows

• Cost: uPVC windows are likely to prove a less expensive option for a home compared to aluminium and this can mean a considerable saving when you’re installing windows in the whole house.
• Low maintenance: Easy to look after, the frames, like the panes of uPVC windows, can be cleaned with warm soapy water after you’ve removed any loose dirt with a cloth or soft brush or hosed them down.
• Suitability: uPVC windows are an option for a wide range of homes, but they might not be allowed in a conservation area and are typically not acceptable for a listed building.
• Styles: You can opt for casement, sash and bay windows in uPVC as well as tilt and turn designs.
• Thermal performance: High quality uPVC windows with double or triple glazing are thermally efficient.
• Installation is typically straightforward, but be sure to find a pro via FENSA.

Cons of uPVC windows

• Longevity: Shorter than aluminium windows at around 25 years. Can discolour over the long term.
• Finishes: Fewer options than aluminium but white, a range of colours and wood-effect are on offer.
• Sightlines: Thicker frames that are more obvious from inside and out.

Pros of aluminium windows

• Low maintenance: Aluminium is easy to care for and resistant to warping and corroding.
• Thermal performance Aluminium windows can offer good thermal performance. ‘But it depends on the product and manufacturer,’ explains Victoria Brocklesby, COO at Origin. ‘Aluminium itself isn’t inherently a thermally efficient material, so it requires high performance thermal breaks and weathertight seals to provide thermal efficiency.’
• Longevity: Exceeds uPVC at 30 to 45 years.
• Finishes: Number of colour options (also available for aluminium front doors) far exceeds uPVC.
• Suitability: Complement a variety of homes. May be acceptable for conservation areas as metal replacement and can be appropriate for some listed buildings. ‘Many period properties originally used steel windows and aluminium can be used to re-create this look,’ explains Matt Higgs, managing director of Klöeber UK. ‘Metal windows have been used since the late 1700s and continue to be used today.’
• Styles: Casement, sash, bay and tilt and turn. Aluminium frames can support larger panes of glass than uPVC to create sizeable picture windows.
• Sightlines: Narrow, maximizing views and daylight.
• Installation: A pro can put them in quickly.

Cons of aluminium windows

• Cost: The downside of aluminium windows compared to uPVC is their higher price, which may exceed some budgets.

Are aluminium windows more expensive than uPVC?

Typically, you will pay more if you opt for aluminium windows rather than uPVC whether you pick them for the whole of your home or when you are building an extension. While costs will depend on the individual window type you select as well as whether you opt for double or triple glazing, going for aluminium might increase your bill by around 25 per cent or more.

However, factor in the lifespan of the windows – longer in the case of aluminium – and although more expensive initially, they can prove better value in the long term.

Which are better – aluminium or uPVC windows?

Both uPVC and aluminium windows can help keep your home warm and bills as low as possible. But if reducing your spend is a priority, uPVC will be preferable. Plan to stay put in your home for many years? Aluminium windows offer longer lifespans, rewarding the initial bigger investment they require.

Aluminium windows’ longevity is also a plus point in environmental terms as is the fact that aluminium can be recycled, and recycling rates of the material are high. uPVC is also recyclable, but it frequently ends up in landfill.

To optimise the views out of your home and the daylight coming in, aluminium is better as the frames are slimmer and the strong material can support bigger expanses of glass, too.

What alternatives might you want to consider?

Timber windows are an alternative to both uPVC and aluminium. For some people, the material will always be more aesthetically pleasing and in conservation areas and for listed buildings it may be stipulated by local planners. However, wood windows can cost 50 per cent more than uPVC.

While maintaining wood windows is more demanding than for aluminium and uPVC, if you do prefer it, it’s worth bearing in mind that modern factory finishes mean wood windows can be much less work to care for than they were in the past.

A further option is a composite window, which is made from a combination of materials including timber with external aluminium or uPVC with external aluminium. They offer the benefits of both materials – think timber or uPVC’s thermal insulation with aluminium’s low maintenance. Fibreglass is a further composite option, but one that tends to cost more than other composites.

FAQs

Do you still get condensation on aluminium windows?

Condensation did occur on aluminium windows in the past. ‘Aluminum conducts heat and cold easily, allowing moisture to form on the cold surface when warm, moist indoor air came into contact with it,’ explains Matt Higgs.

‘However, modern aluminum windows use thermally broken aluminium that achieves low U-values,’ he says. ‘The thermal break, using a polyamide plastic insert which separates the internal and external parts of the frame, reduces heat transfer and helps prevent condensation. This innovation significantly reduces the likelihood of condensation compared to older, non-thermally broken aluminium windows.’

Where can you buy aluminium windows?

• Anglian: casement and bay options
• Everest: casement designs
• Express Bi-folding Doors: provides casement, tilt and turn, bay and picture windows
• IDSystems: range includes casement, picture and corner windows
• IQ Glass: slim casement and oversized window designs
• Klöeber: range includes thermally broken casement, flush casement, tilt and turn, fixed and industrial steel-look aluminium options
• Origin: offers thermally broken casement, bay, gable, picture and bifold windows
• Quickslide: casement and flush casement windows and art deco and traditional heritage aluminium designs
• Sieger: offers slim and flush casement designs, tilt and turn, and industrial steel-framed style
• Thames Valley Windows: contemporary, traditional and industrial steel-style choices
• VuFold: range includes casement, flush casement, tilt and turn and heritage designs

If you're upgrading your windows, you might also want to replace your front door for a cohesive look.

The bifold vs sliding doors debate is a common dilemma faced by homeowners trying to choose the best external doors for their home or extension.

When it comes to patio doors, both sliding and bifold configurations are popular choices. Both have so much to offer anyone looking for a way to connect their home to their outdoor spaces and draw in lots of extra natural light. That said, there are key differences between the two that mean that, in some cases, one may be more suitable than the other.

Our guide is here to compare the pros and cons of both, as well as taking a look at costs and the alternative options if you decide that neither of these is right for you.

What's the difference between bifold and sliding doors?

When it comes to choosing between bifold doors and sliding doors, it is really important that you understand the differences between all the available options.

'Bifold doors are a relatively modern addition to the UK home and have only really become popular in the past 15 years,' says Edward Stobart, technical sales manager at ID Systems.' 'Sliding doors have existed for longer – although the attention to detail and design of modern aluminium systems make them almost unrecognisable from previous generations of sliding doors.'

As the names suggest, the main differences between bifolds and sliding doors is in the way that they open.

'Bifold doors are folding glass doors like an accordion and consist of multiple panels of glass that stack neatly against a wall when open, either for a flat wall or a corner,' explains Katie Brekke, senior business manager at Andersen Windows and Doors.

Sliding doors operate horizontally, sliding on a track that can either be raised in a sill, or set within the ground for a level threshold between inside and out.

They come in all kinds of configurations, and panels can all slide in the same direction, or away from one another. They can also be designed to slide in opposite directions away from a corner to open up the entire two sides of a house. The panels can slide over one another, along walls or even into pockets set within the wall itself.

It is worth noting that both styles of door come in a range of materials, including timber, aluminium, composite and uPVC.

What are the pros and cons of bifold doors?

Before we look into how to buy a door that is perfect for your house, lets take a look at the benefits and disadvantages of bifold doors.

'Adding bifold doors is a great design choice and adds functionality making it easier for outdoor living,' says Katie Brekke.

'Bifold doors are perfect for creating a complete opening which is ideal for smaller apertures, but they do utilise more frame so when they are closed you are not letting in quite as much light,' adds Edward Stobart.

Pros of bifold doors

• Can be opened up completely leaving an uninterrupted space between inside and out
• Suited to both small and larger apertures
• Available in a huge range materials and designs
• Smooth operation

Cons of bifold doors

• Chunkier frames and therefore offer less clear views and let in a little less light than sliding
• Require space for stacking to one side
• May require a little maintenance to remain running smoothly in their tracks

What are the pros and cons of sliding doors?

Just as with front door ideas, patio door trends come and go. Sliding doors are currently a popular alternative to bifolds and there may be a couple of reasons for this.

'In terms of product popularity, there has been a real shift in trends away from bifold doors and towards sliding doors over the past five years,' reveals Edward Stobart. 'The large panes of glass and narrow frames that can be achieved with sliding doors make them a must-have for larger builds, though bifold doors still have their place, especially for smaller renovation projects where the fixed panel of sliding doors would block the space.

'With sliding doors, the incredibly narrow frames and larger panels are ideal for letting in light when the doors are closed, but you are likely to lose an element of the aperture when the doors are opened,' adds Edward.

Pros of sliding doors

• Narrow frames and larger glass panels let in lots of light and give great views
• Suit larger apertures really well
• Available in many materials and designs
• Tend to suit very contemporary homes particularly well thanks to their minimalist design

Cons of sliding doors

• Can't open up the entire aperture as one panel will always remain
• Tracks need cleaning out to ensure smooth running
• Less easy to use for quick access and can be heavier to operate than bifolds

Are sliding doors more expensive than bifolds?

Whether you are choosing a new front door or looking at the options for the rear of your house, you need to explore all the associated costs. This is a really hard one to answer as there are so many variables that will affect what you pay for either style of door – the size of the aperture, the frame material you opt for and the types of glazing you consider will all play a part.

Costs are, in fact, quite similar. For both types of door, uPVC lies at the very cheaper end of the price scale while aluminium sits at the top, with timber not far behind – some hardwood designs will actually come in at a little more.

Are bifolds or sliding doors better for me?

Now you know the pros and cons of both types of doors, the experts we spoke to have a few more tips on how to decide which is right for you. 'For those choosing between door systems, the choice can be a difficult one but there are a couple of key questions that can help guide you: how wide is the opening and how often will you open the doors?' says Edward Stobart.

You also need to bear in mind how the doors will tie in with your patio ideas. 'The width of the aperture is important because the smaller it is (particularly under 3 metres), the more likely it is that bifold doors are the best option. Their ability to fold to one end to maximise the opening is the real selling point of the system at that size,' advises Edward.

'As the apertures get wider (for openings over 4 metres), the chunkier frames of bifold doors mean the view out is more compromised,' continues Edward. 'Larger glazed panels and the tiny frames of sliding doors tend to be the most popular option, providing homeowners with almost uninterrupted views out all year round.'

'Bifolds have and continue to be popular because they completely open up a space within a room and make a seamless transition between the indoors and outdoors,' further advises Katie Brekke. 'Sliding patio doors can be a great option, depending on space and goals, and now have narrower sightlines for more light and clear views. However, they won’t open up an entire wall with the same effect of a bifold door.'

'With regards to how often you will open the doors, the simple answer is the more often you are likely to use the doors, the more bifolds tend to come into play – because their ability to connect inside and out is their main selling point,' explains Edward Stobart. 'If you are likely to use them less often, then sliding doors come into their own because there is more glass and less frame in your view.'

FAQs

Where should you shop for bifold or sliding doors?

There are many suppliers of both bifold and sliding doors, but you do need to be sure that you are buying from a reputable company, preferably with trusted recommendations.

'If you opt for a specialised door like the bifold, make sure you invest in a quality option,' advises Katie Brekke. 'There is a lot of engineering and craftmanship that goes into creating a large door to make it look and work beautifully for your home.'

IDSystems, Origin Global and Kloeber are all great options in the UK.

Are there any alternatives to bifold or sliding doors?

If neither bifold nor sliding doors seem quite right for you, there are other options. Obviously you could consider French doors, a perfect option for owners of older properties, keen for their patio doors to tie in with their period front door ideas.

Another brilliant choice is slide and turn doors.

'There is a third option now, which is slide and turn doors. An ultra-modern alternative to bifold and sliding doors which feature narrow frames like sliding doors, but have the ability to slide and stack the panels to create a completely unobstructed opening, like bifolds,' explains Edward Stobart.

Once you have your external doors sorted, make sure you explore the best patio furniture ideas to make sure you are creating a view worth the effort.

There’s a lot to think about when choosing new windows for your home, ranging from the design and frame material, through to the practicalities involved in opening and closing each unit, maintenance and ventilation.

When starting your search for new windows, a lot depends on whether you’re simply replacing your windows with like-for-like units, or installing completely different units as part of a bigger renovation project. Depending on what your plans are, you may need planning permission for your windows, but do check with your local planning authority.

'Windows are often underestimated, but they make a huge difference to the look and feel of your house,' says Jonathan Hey, founder and managing director of Westbury Garden Rooms and Joinery. 'You’ll never have a good-looking home unless you have well-designed windows. Proportion is everything – it’s about scale, depth and creating interest without too much detail.'

There’s also a lot of industry lingo to get to grips with if you’re going to fully understand and appreciate all the options. That’s why we’ve broken down the main solutions, here – to help you make the best choice for your home.

What are the different types of windows you can get?

Casement windows

A casement window is hinged at the side (either left or right) and typically opens outward, like a door. 'They’re cost-effective, provide good ventilation and are easy to operate and replace,' says Chris Moorhouse from Wickes.

Within this category, you also get tilt-and-turn windows, which offer a dual-function opening system. The first configuration works on a side hinge, allowing the leaf to swing inwards or outwards like a standard casement. The second function allows the window to tilt inward from the top, providing ventilation without fully swinging the window open – ideal for high-level spaces. 'Tilt-and-turn windows are great for flats because they’re easy to clean, but they don’t always suit the aesthetics of a traditional home,' says Jonathan.

Top-hung windows

Top hung windows are hinged at the top, usually with a handle at the bottom for opening. They work well in areas of the home where high-level glazing is best (like in bathrooms) or when you need to reach across a space to open the window (like over a kitchen worktop). When the window is closed, from the outside it’ll look the same as a standard casement design.

Sash windows

Synonymous with traditional Georgian and Victorian architecture, sash windows features two separate panes of glass that glide up and down the window frame on a fixed track. One or both sashes move vertically in front of the other to provide ventilation when the window is open. As the sashes move along a fixed frack, they don’t swing outwards or into the room like a casement window.

Picture windows

A picture window is a large, fixed-pane window that doesn’t open or close. It is installed primarily to frame prized views of the outdoors, rather than for providing ventilation.

Positioned well, a picture window can add a touch of wow-factor to your home.

Clerestory windows

Large or small, clerestory windows are often installed at the top of the wall, rather than at eye level. It’s installed at a high level to allow light and ventilation in from above without compromising on occupants’ privacy.

Bay windows

Bay windows feature a combination of multiple windows (usually three) that project outward from the main walls of the house. As well as providing a panoramic view of the outdoors, this setup can give additional floor space inside.

Oriel windows

Like a bay window, an Oriel setup projects beyond the walls of the house, creating a three-dimensional glazed structure. Unlike a bay window, an Oriel structure will not reach all the way down to the ground. Modern Oriel windows often feature a minimal, frameless aesthetic, creating the appearance of a sleek glass box.

Fixed windows

This type of window comprises a fixed pane of glass that cannot be opened to let fresh air in. “Fixed windows maximise views and energy efficiency thanks to their airtight seal and superior insulation,” says Chris from Wickes.

These can be particularly useful design choices if you are looking to bring more natural light into your home. You might want to opt for aluminium over uPVC for a window like this to maximise views.

Internal windows

You aren’t limited to installing windows exclusively in your home’s exterior walls. Fitting internal windows between rooms can work wonders in maximising the flow of light through your home, especially when it comes to illuminating light-locked rooms at the centre of the floorplan.

Roof windows

When it comes to roof windows, there are multiple options depending on where in your home the window is being installed and the pitch of your roof. For example, in a single-storey kitchen extension with a flat roof, you might install a fixed overhead window or a window that can open and let fresh air in. A range of standard sizes is available, or bespoke roof windows can be manufactured to your chosen dimensions to maximise the amount of light coming in.

If you’re installing roof windows as part of a loft conversion, for instance, you’ll likely be working with a pitched (sloping) roof. This type of window can be fixed or hinged at the top allowing the window to open and let fresh air in. Some suppliers, like Velux, also offer windows where the top section of the unit opens outwards to 45°, creating a small balcony space that’s enclosed by side banister railings for safety.

In many cases, you won't need planning permission for a VELUX window, but always check with your local planning authority before you commit.

Dormer windows

Typically installed as part of a loft conversion or extension as a way of gaining extra floor space by creating additional head height, a dormer window protrudes vertically from the slope of a pitched roof. The window itself sits perpendicular to the slope of the roof and has its own roof above, which can be pitched, flat or sloping.

How do I choose the right type of window for my home?

Practicality

'I would always advise to focus on practicality first and foremost when choosing a window,' says Matt Higgs, managing director at Kloeber. 'It’s important to give consideration to how you use the space the window is in, how likely you are to be opening and closing it on a regular basis and what your primary use for the window is, ie views, ventilation, external aesthetics.'

Design

If you’re updating your house and replacing windows with like-for-like units, you might be more limited with the types of unit you choose as you’re working with an existing aperture. However, if you’re building an extension, there’s potentially a lot more design freedom as you’re starting from scratch.

'If you’re replacing windows, it’s best to stick with the same style as the original design – casement for casement or sash for sash,' says Rob Owens, sales manager at Westbury Windows and Joinery. 'This isn’t just about aesthetics but also practicalities, like meeting escape regulations – which is why the original windows were chosen in the first place.'

If you’re extending and there’s more scope to experiment with design, consider whether you’re looking to create a traditional or modern aesthetic. 'Modern designs often work well with large windows to maximise light and create an airy feel. Sliding sash or tilt-and-turn styles can also work, depending on the home’s aesthetic,' says Jonathan.

'For traditional homes, sash windows are a fantastic option. They’re long, elegant and proportioned beautifully, adding character and scale to period properties,' he adds.

Frame material

'This is important, as each material type has an associated cost and different properties that affect the window’s longevity, heat retention and aesthetic,' says Matt.

UPVC is the go-to option if you have a tight budget, though if you’re looking for more of an authentic, characterful look – especially for a historic home – timber might be the preferred option. Metal frame windows (steel or aluminium) are popular, too, as the innate strength of the material means you can achieve super-slim frames and maximise the amount of glass.

If you want to combine the strength and low maintenance qualities of metal with the naturally insulating properties of wood, you might go for composite windows. This type of frame has metal on the outside and wood on the inside, so you’re getting the best of both worlds.

Energy efficiency

'If simply replacing windows for a similar style, consider a more energy efficient and durable material to improve return on investment,' says Rachel Munby, chief marketing officer at Anglian Home Improvements.

For most homes in the UK, double glazing will do an effective job of keeping warmth inside the house. This type of window features two panes of glass with a space in between, which is filled with an insulating layer of glass. 'This gas prevents warm air from escaping and prevents heat from transferring from one side to the other,' says Rachel.

However, if you have high goals for thermal efficiency, then in the double vs triple glazing debate, triple might come out on top. 'This type of glazing has significant benefits, notably, high energy efficiency ratings and outside sound reduction. As it has three panes of glass, it’s incredibly effective at keeping heat in,' says Rachel.

Depending on your home’s location and orientation to the sun, it might be that a mix and match strategy that uses both double and triple glazed windows is the best solution for your home. Speak to your supplier and get a thorough survey done for the best possible results.

Safety and security

Building Regulations lay out the stipulations for the safety and security of your windows, so it’s important to choose an installer who will ensure your windows installed properly and tick all the required boxes. 'It’s crucial to choose a FENSA-registered installer,' says Rob from Westbury. 'This gives you confidence that your windows will be installed to a high standard and comply with Building Regulations.'

Specification details to look out for include toughened safety glass, multi-point locking and robust hinges.

Soundproofing

If you live near a busy road or under a flight path, this might factor into your decision-making process when specifying the glazing for your new windows. 'Glass technology today is incredible and there are options to suit almost every need,' says Jonathan from Westbury.

Once you've chosen your windows, you might want to revamp your patio doors to complement the overall aesthetic.

Struggling to understand how to choose patio doors for your home? While these types of doors are undeniably beautiful features to incorporate into pretty much every style of property, getting the openings just right is hugely important if you want them to be a positive addition.

There is now so much choice out there, from classic French doors to popular bifold doors or massive swathes of near-frameless sliding doors that it can be hard to know where to start. You might even find yourself stuck on the bifold vs sliding doors debate, unsure of which is the best choice for your home.

'The term ‘patio door’ covers a wide range of different styles of door, each with different methods of opening and each better suited to certain sizes and locations than others,' says Edward Stobart, technical sales manager at IDSystems. 'One thing that connects all of the different door types is that they are ideal for bringing lots of natural light into your home and helping to break down the boundaries between inside and out.'

Our handy guide is here to explain each and every factor you'll need to consider when buying these types of patio doors, including all the options as well as what they are likely to cost you.

What types of patio doors can you choose from?

There was a time when French doors were the only choice available to homeowners wanting to add glazed doors leading to their outdoor spaces. These days, however, there is a much greater range on offer.

'Over the past decade, the choice of styles has grown dramatically, in terms of the type of door system, how they open and what they are made from – making choosing the right patio door for your project more complex than ever before,' says Edward Stobart.

There are generally three types of patio door on offer to homeowners: French, sliding and bifold doors. But a combination of bifold and sliding is also becoming increasingly sought after.

French doors

The original patio door – and still one that has much going for it today. 'Ideal for smaller apertures, French doors are a familiar sight in UK homes and feature a double set of doors that open outwards to connect the house and garden,' explains Edward Stobart. 'French doors can be installed on their own or within a larger area of glazing incorporating fixed frame windows beside and/or above the doors.'

'A style that well and truly never dates, French doors are a classic design that look beautiful in all settings,' says Matt Higgs, managing director of Kloeber. 'Whether it’s a period cottage or a modern self-build, this style of patio door will add a classy touch to your property.'

Bifold doors

'When bifold doors first hit the UK market 25 years ago they were a radical solution compared to previous generations of patio doors,' explains Edward Stobart. 'Their ability to fold and stack to one or both ends to create a completely unobstructed opening was unlike anything seen before and it revolutionised the connection between homes and gardens – helping to extend living spaces outside in warm summer months.'

'It’s no secret that bifold doors have exploded in popularity, thanks to their wow factor and ability to help you achieve that seamless transition from inside to out,' says Matt Higgs. 'The ability to open up and join your two spaces is perfect when entertaining. Configurations are also flexible, giving you a choice of opening direction, panel numbers and also the ability to include a single opening door – handy for the colder months.'

But it's worthwhile researching the alternatives to bifold doors that could help you achieve a similar look.

Sliding doors

Sliding doors seem to currently be winning in the patio door popularity stakes – and it isn't hard to see why.

'While bifold doors have reduced in popularity, demand for sliding doors has rocketed,' reveals Edward Stobart. 'Their ultra-narrow frames and huge glass panels are ideally suited to the British climate – allowing homeowners the connection between inside and out during summer, while maintaining the opportunity to maximise the views out and keeping the weather outside for the rest of the year.

'With panels up to a massive six metres wide and frames as slim as just 20mm, sliding doors can provide almost uninterrupted views out and even be designed with panels that slide into a pocket in the wall to hide them completely away when open,' adds Edward.

Slide and turn doors

Something of a new kid on the block, slide and turn doors are also well worth considering as an addition to both your patio ideas as well as in terms of how they could transform your home internally.

'The most recent addition to the choice of patio doors, slide and turn doors offer a combination of the most popular elements of both bifold and sliding doors,' explains Edward Stobart. 'With narrow frames like sliding doors, but with the ability to slide and stack the panels at one end to create unobstructed openings like bifolds, slide and turn doors have become a hugely popular option for homeowners struggling to choose.

'Designed with individual, non-connected panels, slide and turn doors offer flexibility when open, allowing you to open any number of panels or leave gaps between them for ventilation if required.'

Which materials are best for patio doors?

Just as when selecting replacement windows, once you have decided on the type of patio doors that will best suit your home and requirements, you will need to decide on materials.

The three main choices are uPVC, timber and aluminium – not forgetting composite, which combine internal timber frames with aluminium externally.

While timber is often seen as a very traditional material that requires lots of maintenance, modern innovations have meant homeowners can now enjoy the natural beauty of wood without having to invest too much time in its upkeep. Owners of period properties looking at how to pick the perfect windows in particular should consider timber as a patio door material as it will tie in nicely with original windows.

'Over the years, timber has not always had the best reputation due to concerns of shrinking, warping and general wear,' says Matt Higgs. 'However, thanks to products like our engineered timber, you don’t need to worry about this. It’s stronger and more stable than normal timber. Our advanced microporous paint system also means doors do not require annual re-painting.'

Aluminium patio doors, as well as composite, are now a hugely popular option. 'The go-to option has become aluminium,' says Edward Stobart. 'It’s innate strength and rigidity make it ideal for all types of door style – while modern thermal break technology has significantly improved the thermal efficiency of the material compared to aluminium frames of 30-40 years ago.'

And, finally, uPVC, a material that has slightly fallen from favour in more recent years. 'Over the years, French doors have predominantly been manufactured from uPVC but more and more homeowners are opting for aluminium framed systems which can allow for larger door sashes with thinner frames – and therefore more glass,' explains Edward Stobart.

'For entry level systems, uPVC remains a cost-effective solution, but its relative flexibility means it is far from ideal for bifold or slide and turn systems, while its chunkier frames make it unsuitable for larger sliding door panels.'

What type of glazing is best for patio doors?

When it comes to the glazing you choose for your patio doors you will have the choice between double and triple glazing.

As the names suggest, double glazing is made up of two panes of glass, while triple features three. The gaps between the panes is filled with an inert gas – often argon.

While triple glazing is more thermally efficient than double, meaning your home will stay warmer in winter and cooler in summer, if you are wondering how much does double glazing cost, it is worth noting that triple is more expensive. Triple glazing is also heavier, meaning more strain on the frame and hinges. That said, it also offers superior soundproofing so if your patio doors are facing a busy road this could well be your best option.

What size patio doors should I choose?

French, sliding and bifold doors all come in various sizes and you can either choose standard dimensions or have them custom made to your exact requirements.

French doors tend to be the best option for smaller openings, while sliding and slide and turn doors offer some of the greatest aperture sizes for something really dramatic – up to 24m wide in fact.

If you want to flood your space with natural light, then combining your patio doors with a well-placed picture window can be ideal.

How much do patio doors cost?

The cost of your patio doors very much depends on the type of door you choose as well as their materials and size – and don't forget that the types of glazing you opt for will also play a part.

French doors tend to be the cheapest option, and uPVC is the least expensive material. Starting prices for French doors come in at around £1,500 - £2,500, with Kloeber's most affordable French doors starting from £2,125 for their timber models.

Bifold doors lie next up on the price scale – Kloeber's aluminium two-panel K-Fold doors start at from from £1095 + VAT per panel.

Sliding doors sit right at the top, starting from £3,000 and easily rising to £5,000 or more.

What should I look for when buying a patio door?

The very most important thing when selecting patio doors is to use a company with plenty of recommendations (personal if possible) and their warranties. You should also check out the quality of their doors, in person.

In addition, you should to keep in mind the style of your home and how the new doors will fit in. For example, just as you would want to look at traditional windows for period homes if your house is a character property, so too should you bear in mind how any patio doors will slide in with the architectural style of your home.

FAQs

How do you achieve a level threshold with patio doors?

Many homeowners are keen to achieve a level threshold between inside and out when installing their patio doors, but this is not always possible.

In many cases you will need to step over the threshold and there will be a small difference between the ground levels inside and out. This is not always wanted – not only does it not look as visually appealing as a level threshold, but it can also easily be tripped over.

'To achieve a threshold that is flush with the internal and external spaces on either side of the door you have purchased, the depth of this part of the door can be installed below the floor level,' explains Matt Higgs. 'Then, your finished floor inside of your home will be able to line up with the top of the threshold to create a seamless transition from inside to outside, removing the need to step over the threshold when walking outside. In some homes, this may mean taking out a course of bricks under your existing aperture, which is quite simple for any builder, but it is something that they should be aware of as soon as possible.'

What type of patio door is most energy efficient?

When opting for a new type of window or set of patio doors they need to be as energy efficient as possible if you want them to be a positive addition to your home that enhances the comfort levels you experience.

'With glazing products, including sliding glass doors, their energy efficiency is measured using a metric known as a U-value which is the measurement of heat transfer through the frames and glass,' explains Matt Higgs. 'The smaller the U-value, the better the glazing is at reducing heat transfer and thus, the more energy-efficient it is.

'It is also worth noting, to comply with building regulations on a new build, an extension or an alteration on a house, there are U-values that must be met,' continues Matt. 'For example, a door such as an external sliding door has to achieve a U-value of 1.6 W/m2K for a new build and a maximum 1.4 W/m2K for replacement doors in existing dwellings so make sure to ask your windows and doors supplier about the U-values of your new glazing.'

So, for those after energy saving tips, which types of patio doors are the most energy efficient?

'It could be argued sliding doors are less energy efficient than other patio doors because of their higher ratio of glass,' advises Matt Higgs. 'Although heat can transfer through frames, it is more likely to transfer through the glass as it is a less insulating material. As French and bifold doors typically have smaller panels of glass and more frames this tends to result in less glass as a whole which allows for less heat transfer.'

Once your new patio doors have been installed, keep them sparkling by learning how to clean windows outside properly.

Weighing up the pros and cons in the double vs triple glazing debate is a common comparison many homeowners will look into.

If you have taken on a renovation project, the chances are you will be looking at investing in replacement windows, not only to transform the appearance of your house, but also to upgrade its overall appearance. But what is the best glazing option for your house, your individual needs and budget and is triple glazing actually worth it?

It might be that you are dealing with a property that hasn't seen any improvements for a great many years and still features the original single glazed windows, or perhaps yours is a home with out-of-date and inefficient failed double glazing. Whatever you are dealing with, understanding the differences, cost implications and pros and cons of double vs triple glazing is vital if you want to make the right choice.

What is the difference between double glazing and triple glazing?

When looking into choosing glazing for your home, best place to start is by looking at how double and triple glazing differ.

This is actually pretty simple. At a basic level, while double glazing is made up of two panes of glass fixed within a sealed frame, triple glazing is made up of three. With each type of glazing, there is a pocket of air or an inert gas (often argon) – these act as insulators.

In the case of triple glazing, the additional pane of glass is placed between the inside and outside layers of glazing, meaning there are two air locks rather than one.

Is triple glazing better than double glazing?

This is a little bit of a tricky one to answer given that all homeowners will have different requirements (and budgets). In addition, it isn't quite as simple as comparing types of glazing – there are other factors to consider when making your choice.

'When comparing new windows for energy efficiency, there are several factors to consider beyond choosing between double or triple glazing,' explains Joanna O’Loan, knowledge manager at Energy Saving Trust. 'These include the airtightness of the frames, solar gain (how much solar energy the windows allow in) and the insulating properties of the air between the glass panes. To simplify these complex factors, the Window Energy Rating (WER) was created, providing a single rating for overall energy efficiency, ranging from G to A++.

'WER ratings apply to complete windows, not just individual components like the glass. The final WER rating is determined by the combination of glass, frame and other materials. For example, triple-glazed windows use three panes of glass and provide excellent insulation. However, they might have a lower WER than comparable double-glazed windows because the additional glass reduces visible light and solar gain.'

If this has left you feeling a little confused about whether double or triple glazing is the better option, looking at the pros and cons of each can really help.

Pros and cons of double glazing

When looking at the pros and cons of both double glazing and triple glazing, it is important to take into account a few other factors, such as frame materials as this too can make a difference to their overall performance. This is definitely something to think about when installing traditional windows for period homes.

That said, no matter what frame material you choose (usually uPVC, aluminium, timber or composite), there are some advantages and disadvantages when it comes to double glazing.

Double glazing pros and cons

Pros of double glazing:

• Cheaper to buy than triple glazing
• More lightweight, meaning slimmer frames and larger openings are possible
• Often less labour intensive to install than triple glazing
• Usually quite sufficient in our increasingly mild environment here in the UK

Cons of double glazing:

• Won't be suitable for those building to Passivhaus standards
• Not quite as thermally efficient as triple glazing
• Less soundproof than triple glazing
• More prone to condensation than triple glazed windows

Pros and cons of triple glazing

Next up let's explore the pros and cons of triple glazing. While there are definite benefits to be had by installing it, this is not the right option for everyone.

Pros of triple glazing:

• Better levels of thermal comfort compared to double
• Superior acoustic performance (perfect if you live on a busy road)
• Less likely to suffer from condensation
• Vital for those aiming for Passivhaus standards

Cons of triple glazing:

• More expensive both to buy and install than double glazing
• The heavier frames required often need additional support
• Need to be installed by an experienced professional to ensure optimum performance

How much warmer is triple glazing than double glazing?

One of the main things people want to know when making this decision is whether or not triple glazed windows will mean their houses feel warmer than double can – particularly with energy prices being so high and utility bills soaring.

It is interesting to note, however, than even making the switch from old single glazing to high-quality double glazing can make the world of difference.

'Installing A-rated double glazing in a single-glazed, gas-heated semi-detached house could save around £140 annually on energy bills and reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 390kg,' says Joanna O'Loan. 'There may also be additional benefits like noise and draught reduction, as well as aesthetic improvements.'

However, triple glazed windows undeniably mean a slightly more comfortable internal temperature.

'They offer better thermal insulation than double glazing,' confirms Edward Stobart, sales manager at architectural glazing specialists IDSystems. 'This helps you to reduce heat loss from the building, which is better for the environment and can in turn mean lower energy bills each month.'

The surface temperature of modern, energy-efficient double glazed windows is around 2°C lower than triple glazing in a room with a temperature of 21°C – something that can help stop condensation on bedroom windows.

Do you still get condensation with triple glazing?

Window condensation occurs when warm air comes into contact with glass that is colder than it is. When this happens, the water vapour contained in the air deposits itself on the glass.

Due to the fact that the surface temperature of triple glazing tends to be slightly warmer than that of double, it is less likely to suffer from condensation – although it should be noted that if the humidity levels in the space are high and the ventilation is poor, condensation might still rear its head.

According to Horizon Windows & Doors, triple glazing 'reduces condensation by up to 70-80% compared to single glazing, and by 30-50% compared to double glazing, as it keeps the interior glass surface warmer.'

Is triple glazing more expensive than double glazing?

Whether you are looking into how to renovate on a budget or not, you need to know that, without a doubt, triple glazing is more expensive both to buy and install than double glazing.

'Highly rated WER windows can be costly, and if you live in a conservation area or listed building, you may face style restrictions,' begins Joanna O’Loan. 'In such cases, check with your local planning authority.

'Double glazing costs vary widely depending on materials and style, with PVC frames being the most affordable and hardwood frames the most expensive,' continues Joanna. 'A full set of A-rated windows for a semi-detached house typically costs around £15,000. Triple glazing adds weight, requiring thicker frames and stronger hardware, or smaller opening sashes. This can make triple glazing more expensive due to the extra materials and reinforced frames needed.'

According to Checkatrade, there is a difference of £160 per window between double and triple glazing.

How do you choose between double and triple glazing?

When it comes to making the right choice for you and your home, you should weigh up initial costs compared to long term savings as well as how much value triple glazing could add to your property if you plan on selling in the future.

'Here in the UK there are greater savings to be made from insulating a home with triple glazing than there would be in a milder climate in continental Europe,' points out Edward Stobart.

If you plan on moving on and are not so concerned with long-term savings but more in how to add value to your home, double glazing might well suffice, particularly if you opt for those with a good WER rating.

'To improve your home's energy efficiency, choosing windows with a higher WER can help,' explains Joanna O'Loan. 'Window fitters often work with specific suppliers, so it’s worth speaking with multiple installers to find the best options and quotes available.'

It is also important to note that in some cases, homeowners will be required to install triple glazed.

'Depending on your project and the type of glazed doors and windows, triple glazing may be a ‘must-have’ in order to comply with thermal efficiency standards required by Building Regulations,' adds Edward.

FAQs

What other ways can I make my house feel warmer?

While replacing old single glazed windows is one of the best ways to improve not only the thermal efficiency of your home but also its appearance, there are other steps to consider taking.

'If replacing your windows isn't an option right now, there are cheaper ways to improve energy efficiency,' points out Joanna O'Loan. 'Draught-proofing, heavy or thermal-lined curtains and secondary glazing can all help keep your home warmer this winter.'

If you are looking at how to keep your house warm in winter you should also look at upgrading your insulation too. Even smaller measures like adding draught excluder tape, like this from Amazon, or insulating window film, can help your home feel warmer by banishing draughts.

Decided on double glazing? Look into how much does double glazing cost so you know what to budget.

There’s nothing like a sleek sliding door to provide that seamless indoor-outdoor living feel so many of us strive for, but what you may not be aware of is how important the type of glazing you’re using really is. The glazing experts at SUNFLEX UK have spoken to us about what you need to know, what to look out for and how to choose the perfect glazing to ensure a smooth lifetime with your sliding door.

How glazing is set into place

Whether your windows and doors are uPVC, timber, aluminium, single, double or even triple glazed, there’s a strong chance that the glazing unit is held in place by something called a glazing bead. This bead attaches to the frame around the edge to secure the glass and keep it in place.

The rise of structurally bonded doors

However, as the preference for slimmer frames has risen in popularity, many manufacturers are instead choosing to achieve this desirable slim look by bonding the glass to the frames. This is known as a ‘structurally bonded’ system, as the glass and frame are now permanently glued together.

What are the risks with structurally bonded doors?

While permanently joined frames and glazing may sound like a good thing, it’s actually where a lot of the trouble lies. If there’s an accident or an issue, the glass can no longer be replaced without the whole frame also being removed, meaning a bigger job and a bigger bill. Also, simply a lot more hassle, as you’ll need to go back to the company who installed the door in the first place.

Be aware that terms of warranties for glass breakages will vary, as will the cost of replacing the panel, and you can’t always assume that it will be covered under warranty.

Can I guarantee availability of replacement glazing?

Since you’re reliant on ordering replacement glazing through your original door suppliers, who are in turn reliant on ordering it from the same manufacturers, who in then also are reliant on ordering it from the same profile supplier, there’s a lot of factors at play.

If even one of these parties are no longer trading or the system you bought goes out of production, sourcing a replacement panel could be very difficult — meaning you may need to buy a new set of doors, at the risk of also needing new plasterwork, render and flooring.

How do I know if I am buying a structurally bonded sliding door?

Unfortunately not many companies will offer this information out of the blue, or even warn you about the risks of the bonding. In fact, if they do tell you they could well spin it as a benefit. So it’s up to you to ask your door supplier directly about how the glazing is set in the frame.

What are the alternatives?

Save yourself the worry of future costs and stress caused by structurally bonded sliding doors and consider ‘dry glazed’ or ‘semi-dry glazed’ to get slim sliding doors instead. These allow the glass to be replaced without whole door panel being affected — just as you would with any other window or door in your house. A semi-dry glazed sliding door, like the SUNFLEX UK SVG20, offers the best of both worlds — a predominantly slim system with the benefit of being serviceable in the future.

For more information about the risks of choosing a bonded sliding door system, or to get a more reliable system in place, speak to the SUNFLEX UK technical team today.

When designing your dream space or rethinking an existing home, there are some seemingly necessary additions which can take up precious square footage without adding much style to your space. One of the biggest offenders? The traditional hinged door. Meanwhile, unobtrusive and sleek pocket doors from ECLISSE offer a range of benefits alongside their modern good looks.

Make the most of your space

Possibly the most obvious advantage of a pocket door is the world of space they’re able to provide as instead of having to account for the swing of the door to open, they slide neatly and seamlessly into the walls. This also means you gain more visual space, as when open your sight line remains unbroken, allowing light to filter through from one area to another.

This means you can adapt the home as your family’s needs change, meaning you don’t have to start redesigning your layout with each stage of life. In fact, ECLISSE products are thoughtfully designed with longevity in mind as their fully extractable tracks allow for easy retrofitting of accessories without damaging walls.

The ECLISSE system can accommodate 35mm or 44mm timber doors up to a weight of 100kg. The process is straightforward: after setting up the pocket door frame within the wall cavity, the timber door can be fitted seamlessly into the system.

Smooth style

Whether you choose a richly stained oak door to serve as a striking feature or opt for a panelled door to blend seamlessly with your existing décor, the contemporary design of ECLISSE pocket doors make them become a style statement in their own right when closed and, thanks to their seamless integration into walls, when open they fully disappear from view to keep things sleek.

With ECLISSE you can also say goodbye to creaky hinges and stuck door handles, as these pocket doors glide smoothly along their tracks for ultimate ease of use. This smooth operation will continue for years to come as the anti-warp profile of the track means the doors will keep gliding even if the door itself warps for any reason.

If you’re ready to make the move into pocket doors, or learn more about how they can help make your home work better, explore the ECLISSE website, or via their Facebook and Instagram pages.

EDITOR’S NOTE: An earlier version of this article included a quote from a purported expert whose credentials we have not been able to verify. The quote has been removed. We regret this lapse in our verification process and have updated our internal protocols to reduce the risk of recurrence.

One of the topics we've been discussing lately at Ideal Home is should your front door match your windows? If you're anything like us, the first jobs you tackle at home tend to be updating the interior as it's often quicker and easier than some of the bigger, external jobs like replacing doors and windows.

But often, especially if you've moved into an older property, you can find that there are some quirky design features like front doors and windows being different styles, especially if parts of the property have been extended. This then throws up another question, does it matter if they match? Luckily there are a number of front door ideas and tips to make them work together more harmoniously that won't break the bank.

Should your front door match your windows?

'While matching your front door to your windows can create a cohesive look, it's not always necessary,' explains Liv Conlon, CEO at ThePropertyStagers. 'What's more important is achieving a harmonious overall aesthetic.' 

There are ways to make the exterior of your home feel more connected though, as Liz explains. 'Coordinating colours, styles, or materials between your front door and windows can tie your home's exterior together beautifully, but contrasting elements can also add visual interest. Ultimately, consider the architectural style of your home and personal preferences when deciding whether to match your front door to your windows.' 

What styles of windows and doors work well together?

Before you decide on whether you want doors and windows to match it's a good idea to think about the style of your home. Consider whether a more traditional look would be more complementary than going for a modern design.

'For traditional properties, timber sash windows paired with a period-style wooden door can add character and charm while offering a timeless appeal. Cottage windows also work well in this case, helping to preserve the features of an older property or give a new home a more rustic look,' advises Rachael Munby, chief marketing officer at Anglian Home Improvements. 

'Meanwhile, modern composite or aluminium doors combined with aluminium casement windows are often trademark features of a more contemporary home.'

How to make mismatched windows and doors look good

Sometimes, contrasting colours can help mismatched doors and windows look more coordinated, especially if you use a more neutral shade as a subtle window treatment that lets your front door be the star of the show. 

'If you're concerned about not matching your windows to your front door, I would go for a more classic colour choice for the windows and have a bold colour for the front door.' Flora Hogg, interior designer and colour consultant, Craig & Rose.

Danny Shine, chief purchasing officer at Leader Doors agrees:

'Embrace the contrast by ensuring there's a cohesive element tying them together, like matching hardware or complementary trim. Additionally, consider incorporating similar accent colours throughout your exterior that match your interior door furniture styles.'  

There are also a few budget-friendly hacks that can help to give your windows and doors a more cohesive look, like using a matching patterned window film on your front door and windows.

'Integrating window film into your design offers both aesthetic and practical benefits, fostering a cohesive look across the front of your home,' explains Joanna Baumard, Co-founder of Purlfrost. 

'By choosing film that complements your decor and architectural style, you can add texture, colour, or pattern to windows and doors, enhancing ambiance and visual balance.'

What to consider when deciding on a colour for doors and windows

If you decide that you want your front door to match your windows, painting them in similar tones can help give them a more uniform style.

‘Create a cohesive look by using one colour across your front door and window or perhaps consider our Colour Scales collections for a tonal feel, opting for a paler version of the same colour family on window frames, and a deeper version on your front door,' advises Ruth Mottershead, creative director at Little Greene.

But, if you prefer your front door to have more of a statement, you could give it a refresh with a more vibrant colour. 'Be bold with your front door choice and create a statement,' suggests Ruth. 

'Your front door is the first glimpse of your personality that visitors will receive so is the perfect place for bold colour. To inject a little personality into your outdoor scheme, use the bright, impactful ‘Mister David,’ it certainly makes a statement and will put a smile on the face of your guests and passers-by.’ 

It's also a good idea to factor in whether the colours you choose for your front door and windows will work with the stonework your house is built from, too. It's probably not the best idea to have doors and windows that clash with the colour of your brick or stonework.

You might also want to consider whether a door and window colour will help blend in with neighbouring homes or maybe create a nice contrast.

As well as spending time looking at different colour combinations,  John Shaw, managing director at Vibrant Doors advises on checking there are no restrictions in place before you get out the paintbrushes.

'If you live in a location with strict homeowner guidelines or architectural restrictions (such as new build estates, preservation orders or listed buildings), you may need to follow certain rules regarding exterior colours and materials,' says John. 

'Always check these to ensure compliance before making any changes to your front door or windows, because it could become a very expensive job if you have to change them.'

What colours work best on front doors and windows?

Ultimately, colour choice is going to come down to your personal preference and the vibe you want to set for the exterior of your home. 

'The colour choice for your front door and windows is really about the atmosphere you wish to create, are you looking for a harmonious exterior scheme, or do you want to create a joyful exterior with a pop of colour?' explains Ruth.

'I love to see colour used in surprising or unusual ways to update an exterior, and the addition of a fabulous colour highlight on a front door never fails to make me smile, it feels like such a warm welcome, and is the easiest way to make your exterior façade feel renewed.'

What is the best type of paint finish for doors and windows?

As much as it's important to carefully consider the colours you will use, paint finishes can have just as much impact. Whether you opt for glossy or matt, they will look a little different.

It's also important to bear in mind that the sheen and type of colour can also affect how much dirt is noticeable. For example, if you know your house is exposed to weather, white and really dark colours can show up debris easily.

FAQs

Should front doors be lighter or darker than the house?

'There's no hard and fast rule for whether a front door should be lighter or darker than the house. Both lighter and darker doors can create striking contrasts or a subtle accent,' advises Liv. 

'Consider the desired visual impact and balance when choosing the colour of your front door – lighter hues can make a bold statement against darker exteriors, while darker hues can add depth and sophistication to lighter-coloured homes.' 

What is the best colour for a front door?

'You should also always consider complementary colours vs tonal schemes. If your home’s exterior is brick or rendered, then choose a door colour that complements those tones,' advises Anna Hill, brand director and colour consultant, Fenwick & Tilbrook. 

'Red brick properties often look beautiful with a green door, while a Cotswold stone property pairs more beautifully with muddier tones, playing into a cohesive, country feel.'

The entrance including your front door is the very first impression people get of your home before they even enter it. So best make it a good one from the onset – and the right front door colour ideas can be an easy way towards this goal.

There are a few different reasons tourists love to come to Portobello Road in London – but one of the top ones are the lovely houses with colourful front doors that everyone feels compelled to take pictures of, myself included. So going for a colourful makeover is the best front door idea you can go for.

‘As the first feature people notice, your front door plays an important role in your home’s kerb appeal,’ says Jimmy Englezos, Ronseal’s senior brand manager. ‘The colour of your front door is a quick method to influence how people perceive your home and a quick route to give an expensive feel.’

These are the shades and colour-centric tips for your front door that our experts recommend the most.

1. Think about the colour of your home’s exterior

The number one tip is not necessarily a specific colour. But nothing exists in isolation, your front door included. So when choosing the colour for your entrance, don’t forget to consider whether it will go with the colour of your home’s exterior.

‘Choosing the right front door colour is of course subjective but one thing that should influence your decision is how well the colour ties in with the exterior of your house,’ says Lucy Steele, senior brand manager and resident colour expert at Valspar. ‘For example, mossy greens such as Prairie Sage will better compliment a house in the countryside whereas an urban house can be more daring with a mustard like French Mustard.’

2. Opt for earthy terracotta

With some of the more traditional front door colours going out of style - think greys and whites - they’re being replaced by more earthy shades that have recently been dominating home decor trends, too. And terracotta shades are at the top of the list.

‘Brits have been turning to warm, natural colours like clay as an alternative to white,’ Jimmy at Ronseal says. ‘Not only do these shades do a better job of hiding dirt, but they also create a calming aesthetic at the entrance of a home.’

And Lucy at Valspar agrees, ‘We’re seeing a real shift towards warmer, earthier tones and nature-inspired shades for front doors.’

3. Elevate your door with rich jewel tones

Rich jewel tones like the unexpected purple colour trend have been getting more and more popular ever since last year in interiors – so it’s only natural for this colour trend to be extended to your home’s exterior and the front door.

‘Think jewel shades, like the rich, inviting, olive hues of Constance Moss or the velvety dark blue of After Midnight,' says Sara D’Souza, content strategist and creator at Frenchic Paint. 'We’re increasingly getting braver with colour on our front doors, and a vintage green like Victory Lane will really make your home stand out.’

4. Go for timeless sage green

Whether you want to go for a timeless shade or for a colour that could boost the value of your home if you’re looking to sell in the near future, sage green is among the most favoured in either case.

‘If you’re looking to sell your home, timeless classics like Wise Old Sage will never go out of style,’ Sara at Frenchic says.

Marianne Shillingford, creative director and colour expert at Dulux, continues, ‘If you’d prefer a gentler greeting, then I’d suggest using the colours that reflect the most familiar hues of nature. Try a green like Fresh Sage that reflects the door’s eye view of the world which surrounds your home and link them together beautifully.’

5. Opt for sophisticated olive

Olive green has been one of the most trending green shades of late. The undeniable grown-up sophistication of the shade has made it stick around for longer than a season. And we predict we’ll all be obsessed with olive green for a long time, whether that’s in our homes, clothes or on our front door.

‘Deep green shades like olive green are a fantastic nod to nature and feel wonderfully grounding,’ says Victoria Yardley of Victory Colours.

6. Choose an unexpected red with a twist

Despite its boldness and vibrancy, red is quite a traditional colour choice for front doors, especially for those wanting some colour. But this year, it’s not the classic red that’s enjoying much popularity, it's actually one of the front door colours going out of style. Instead, it’s all about the red with a twist.

‘Red is really on trend at the moment and is unlikely to be going anywhere soon,’ says Michael Rolland, paint expert and managing director at The Paint Shed. ‘It’s great for enhancing both a home’s playfulness and elegance. There is a definite shift from classic fire-engine red shades, seeing them replaced by richer, more sophisticated tones like burgundy and terracotta.’

7. Be bold with bright orange

Set the tone for the rest of your home with a stand out shade. Orange is a vivid colour so give it the finishing touch and a touch of visual balance with white self-adhesive door numbers.

'They’re the perfect budget-friendly option and come in a wide range of designs or customise your own using our bespoke templates,' says Joanna Baumard, co-founder of Purlfrost. 'The end product is a cost-effective alternative to having your glass professionally etched and is very easy to install. Each number sticker can also be used on any smooth non-porous surface like steel, plastic, as well as varnished or painted wood.'

8. Lift your mood with sunny yellow

If you adore colour then go for it – and if you have wood detailing that can be painted in the same shade then all the better, it will really create a focal point and become a design feature in its own right.

'If you’re feeling brave, I’d try a colour that’s bursting with joy – like a yellow, something that’s going to make you feel happy to get home whatever type of day you’ve had,' Marianne at Dulux says.

9. Embrace regal dark blues

Dark blue shades, including navy, royal blue and nearly black blues, will add depth to your exterior. And they're ideal if you don't want to stand out, but still create a statement.

'Classic navy is always a winner – it’s elegant, works with any style, and never looks dated,' Victoria at Victory Colours says.

Michael at The Paint Shed continues, 'The Notting Hill-style front door is popular and for good reason. Try a luxurious dark or royal blue like Farrow & Ball's Blue Maize. It’s timeless, bold and a great colour choice for giving your exteriors an elevated sense of sophistication.'

10. Keep it pretty in pink

'For added warmth, consider a soft pop of pink with Dusky Blush,' Sara at Frenchic says.

Pink is becoming a more popular front door option, and if you've painted the rest of your exterior using another colour then choose a front door shade that's vibrant enough to hold its own.

Warming yet feminine, pink is a friendly shade that makes it a good choice and one that will make you smile as you walk up your path even on the darkest and wet wintery days!

11. Opt for soft pastel blue

A gentle colour that's easy on the eye, sky blue is a good solid choice if you want a clean and fresh looking front door and it looks smart with crisp white woodwork.

'The front door offers the perfect opportunity to inject some personality and there has been a significant increase in the popularity of bold and bright colours such as yellow and blue rather than the more traditional black or white,' says Helen Shaw, director of marketing at Benjamin Moore.

'Consider drawing on the natural environment and choosing tones which mimic the setting, such as sky blue or forest green as this not only adds familiarity and comfort to the home but complements nature rather than distract from it.'

FAQs

Even though there are front door colour mistakes that could be made, we believe that just like with the interior of your home, your front door colour choice should be based on what you like and gravitate towards. Is it classic black? Great! Or bright, sunny yellow? Even better!

When it comes to choosing the right windows for your home, it's crucial to remember that how they perform is just as important as how they look. 

Over the years there have been some incredible developments in glass technology, so choosing the most suitable glazing for the windows in your home has never been easier. 

In fact, depending on the chosen window supplier, you can now specify windows with glass that has been tailored to meet the specific requirements of each room within their home.

While the wide range of glazing options is great news, knowing exactly where to start can be a bit overwhelming. To help the window and door specialists at Everest have explored some of the common problems high-performing glass can help to combat.

'It is vital homeowners understand the fundamental role that glazing plays to create a more comfortable living space,' says Anthony Threlfall, Head of Marketing at Everest.

'Modern glass now has the ability to reflect heat in and out of a home, reduce outside noise, increase security, safety and privacy and protect against UV sun damage.  

'What’s more every window in every room can be fully customised depending on the requirements of each space, creating optimal comfort and enjoyment throughout a home.'

To tackle some of the most common problems homeowners without the right glazing face, Everest has specially designed its own high-performing glass.

'Our high-performing glass ranges have been uniquely manufactured using specialist glazing options to benefit homeowners living across the UK,' says Anthony.

'We have the Ultimate range, Energy Saver range and Noise-reducing range and each one has been carefully crafted to deliver outstanding results to guarantee a comfortable home no matter the weather.'

Manufactured using an innovative type of solar reduction glass, the Ultimate range is the perfect solution for homeowners looking for an insulating window which can successfully reduce the amount of solar energy that passes through a window.

The Energy Saver range however, as its name suggests, is ideal for those wanting a highly energy-efficient window that will not only let the heat from the sun in, but also help retain it. Thanks to the Low-E glass, homes will stay warmer for longer, helping to reduce monthly heating bills.

Finally, the Noise Reducing range is fantastic for if your home is positioned next to airports, railway lines or near a busy road. Designed to reduce outside noise by up to 40 decibels, the range is perfect for finally putting a stop to those noisy neighbours and creating a serene living environment without compromising on thermal performance.

'We’ve recently seen a big increase in demand for energy-efficient replacement windows from homeowners,' adds Anthony.

'With any one of our new high-performance glazing options, people are guaranteed to not only have a window which helps to improve a home’s energy efficiency but looks great and meets the needs of the rooms in your property.'

To find out more information about the Everest Ultimate range, Energy Saver range or Noise Reducing range to see if one of these glazing options can optimise your home and living spaces, visit the Everest website.  

Whether you are restoring traditional windows or replacing inappropriate uPVC designs with more sensitive wooden or metal alternatives, the right choice in style can transform the look of your entire home, both inside and out, while also increasing its energy efficiency. 

Updating traditional windows is one of the most important decisions when it comes to home renovations. It is important that replacement windows are compliant with building regulations – check that the suppliers you use are registered with FENSA. If your home is listed or in a conservation area, you will also need additional consent.

How to choose traditional windows for period homes

Replacing inappropriate windows can seem like a daunting prospect, as it’s important to pick the perfect windows and choose a design that complements your home’s era and architectural style.

Look at similar properties on your street to identify the designs that are specific to your area. 'You can also look up historic records – Historic England is a good source of information,’ advises Tom Wright, managing director at George Barnsdale. 

‘Also research styles for the period the house was built in – this is a good general approach, especially for glazing bar patterns, types of glazing, and window and door profiles. Companies that specialise in timber traditional windows and doors have a lot of knowledge, too, so be sure to ask for advice.’

1. Timber sashes

While the sash window reigned supreme during the 18th and 19th centuries, in subsequent years many have been replaced with uPVC designs.

‘Period-appropriate timber traditional windows will add value to your home. They are more environmentally friendly, should provide better thermal efficiency, and, if they are made using Accoya, will last a lot longer than plastic,’ says Richard Dollar, director at The Sash Window Workshop. Seen are its Accoya double-glazed sash windows.

2. Casements

During all the eras, side-hung timber casement traditional windows – such as these designed by Jack Brunsdon & Sons – were widely used, particularly on humbler properties. Far simpler than intricate sashes, casements are operated by hinges and can be made from timber or metal. 

3. Colours

While there is a world of different shades that can bring life to your home’s exterior, it is important to approach window colours with caution. ‘Inevitably, tastes change, so choose a colour scheme that enhances the appearance of your home rather than just picking an on-trend hue,’ says Charles Fox, director at Timber Windows. 

‘Location, geography and surrounding properties all offer visual clues as to what colours will work.’ Above are its engineered European Redwood flush casements, prices on request.

4. Consider draughtproofing

All too often, original windows get torn out of period homes on account of poor thermal performance. However, this is a tragic loss to the fabric of an old home, especially when it can often be rectified. 

‘Learning how to draughtproof a window gives greater thermal performance gains than double glazing,’ says Tom Jones-Marquez, director of Bath Bespoke.

‘Draughtproofing is best carried out during a full sash window refurbishment. The traditional windows will remain in their original form, be warmer and also well protected for years to come. Unfortunately, it is trickier to apply effective draughtproofing to casement windows.’ 

5. Crittall for 20th century home

Instantly recognisable, metal windows, and Crittall windows in particular, are icons of 20th-century design. Due to the strength and durability of steel, there are many homes with original Crittall windows still in situ. 

‘Original Crittall windows can be identified by their fenestra joint, which was patented in the 1900s,’ explains Russell Ager, managing director at Crittall. 'Every Crittall window also features a named plaque, which is applied into the jamb.’ 

6. Leaded lights

Leaded lights are one of the key characteristics of traditional windows. From the 15th to 17th centuries, it was a practical measure as large sheets of glass were unable to be produced. Fusing together smaller panels was the only way to create a larger glass window. 

Later innovations made lead lighting unnecessary; however, the rise in the popularity of the Arts and Crafts movement saw a resurgence in lead lighting for its decorative qualities, as seen in properties such as this. 

Featured are Clement Windows’ bespoke SMW steel design finished in Jet Black semi-gloss, prices on application, with single-glazed leaded glass by local supplier Silver Stained Glass.

7. Insulation and glazing

 The right glazing is as important as the frames. ‘Up to 18 per cent of heat loss occurs through the windows, so it’s vital that they are as efficient as possible,’ says Phillip Wall, managing director at ERW Joinery. 

‘If double glazing isn’t an option, secondary glazing is an easy way to increase energy efficiency. It can fit discreetly inside your existing frames and add an extra level of insulation.’ Pictured are European Redwood stormproof casements, prices are usually on request and will vary from project to project so thoroughly research how much is secondary glazing before you start.

8. Stained glass

 If you are lucky enough to have original stained glass, then it should be preserved at all costs. Experts, such as those at Sherriff Stained Glass, can restore original glass, install secondary glazing, encapsulate, or use other methods to ensure its longevity. If the stained glass has been removed, they are also able to create reproduction or new bespoke or traditional-inspired designs.

9. Be cautous with uPVC on period homes

 Traditionally, uPVC has been frowned upon as a material for window frames on period homes; however, there are a small number of high-quality designs that have been approved for use in listed homes and in conservation areas, such as Residence Collection’s Grained White R9 windows with Georgian bars. 

10. Stone mullions

Stone mullioned windows became popular during the Elizabethan and Jacobean periods but can add character to homes of many other eras, too. Here, stone mullions have been paired with architectural bronze casements from Architectural Bronze Casements. 

Made from an alloy of copper, zinc and other metals, bronze is more flexible than many other metals, so can be easily curved to create unique and statement designs. The contrast between the stone and bronze also makes a striking alternative to timber. Prices are available on application from Architectural Bronze Casements.

FAQs

Ask any architect and they will tell you that the key to a well designed home is all about the natural light. VELUX roof windows are the perfect way to do this whether it’s in a bedroom or a kitchen. However, working out the best way to use them to introduce more daylight into your home if you’re not a professional can be tricky.

You might have a vision of a glorious light-filled loft conversion or kitchen extension but no idea how to turn it into a reality. But VELUX has your back with their Design Advisory service. The group of design experts will help you choose the best style and size of roof windows, and even take you right through to the installation process.

You will get a free cost breakdown and a design proposal that will include before and after renders to help you fully visualise the investment. Oh, and did we mention that it’s completely free? 

The service is a lifesaver if you need help picturing the impact and style that VELUX roof windows will have in your space. The renders will help you to make that crucial decision between different types of solutions, whether this be a VELUX 3in1 roof window or a traditional style conservation roof window. Once a Daylight Advisor has helped you select the perfect roof windows for your renovation they will also find a VELUX Certified Installer to handle everything from the process to coordination, right though to the final installation.

The service isn’t just for full renovation projects, the daylight advisors can help if you are simply looking to upgrade any existing roof windows. Especially now VELUX has so many more options beyond the simple, single roof window. The clever VELUX 2in1 roof windows are perfect if you’re looking to seriously maximise the amount of light in a small space. 

The VELUX 2in1 roof window effectively doubles the daylight, where there is only space for one roof window frame. It comes with one fixed and one openable roof window within one frame, making it ideal for small-to-medium sized rooms. Or opt for the VELUX 3in1 roof window that features three sashes and will give you wide, panoramic views from your room.

With so many options to choose from let VELUX help you embrace more natural light. To request your free design proposal, visit velux.co.uk/design

With so many period front door ideas, it can be hard to decided on the right design for your home. 

However, there is an art to choosing the right front door ideas to complement your home. Not only must you take into account its size, shape and security credentials, but also suitability to the era and look of your property. Visible to all, a front door makes an important first impression, setting expectations for the interior beyond. 

Choosing the best period front door ideas

Period front door ideas need to not only complement your front garden ideas, but also work with your hallway ideas that lie on the other side of the door.

When seeking inspiration for the design, research doors suitable for the age and architectural style of your home – for example, a door that suits a Victorian cottage will not be the same as a style for a Victorian townhouse. The same applies when looking for traditional windows for period homes too. 

Look to neighbouring properties, too, especially if the original doors are still intact, as this will help to guide you as to which designs and shapes work best.

1. Choose the right paint colour

When choosing a new colour for your period front door ideas, start by looking at your neighbours’ homes – your choice should ideally complement the existing palette. Also consider your front garden: a house with only a path or driveway can take a bold hue, as the door will be the star of the show; however, an abundant cottage garden brimming with blooms will suit a more muted pastel, neutral or subtle- grained door finish. 

If you are planning to paint your front door be sure that you know how to prepare the wood to ensure an aesthetic and durable finish. This door is in Dorothy’s Slippers exterior eggshell at Victory Colours.

2. Carefully consider materials

Materials have a significant impact on the aesthetics, durability and security of your period front door ideas. Solid wood is a highly aesthetic and secure choice but requires regular maintenance to ensure its durability. For this reason, modified timbers, such as Accoya are becoming increasingly popular.

 ‘Accoya is designed not to visibly swell, shrink, or distort and is also extremely stable meaning it requires minimal ongoing maintenance.  Accoya also has naturally insulating properties, helping to keep down energy bills,’ says Richard Dollar, Managing Director at The Sash Window Workshop.

3. Embrace a classic medieval style for a Tudor cottage

For period front door ideas dating from the medieval period, handpainted solid wood designs were popular. Traditionally made from hardwood such as oak or sapele, they feature a plank style and remained unpainted. These elegant doors were completed with hand-forged ironmongery. 

4. For a more minimalist design consider regency

One of the more minimalist design eras, Regency period front door ideas are effortlessly sophisticated. A variant of Georgian design, Regency doors feature the same geometric panelling but blue shades of the previous era were traded for black or bronze-green shades with grained finishes to imitate expensive oak which made a striking statement against whitewashed homes. Gothic Revival styles also began to be used during this period. 

5. For timeless style go for a Georgian-inspired front door

Instantly recognisable, the six-panelled Georgian-style door suits a wide range of homes – both Georgian and not. 

‘On this particular home, the homeowners were keen to replicate the existing design of the original door and surround on their portico. With some minor tweaks to the Georgian portico panels to the left and right of the door, and altering the circular panelling detail to square, the door fits in beautifully with the property’s look and feel,’ says Ryan Schofield, managing director at Thames Valley Window Company.

6. Complement your home with a Victorian-style door

The four-panelled Victorian door suits a wide range of homes – whether Victorian or not. Capitalising on the increased affordability of glass, decorative glazing became a prominent feature, often with statement glass designs replacing the top two panels. This Victorian-style door from London Door Company in Dove Grey features bespoke glazing.

7. Make a statement with an Edwardian door

Period front door ideas inspired by the Edwardian doors are defined by grandeur. Building on the ornate Victorian designs, the entry to the home was broadened with sidelights and stained glass panels creating a bold statement.

Created as a replica of a traditional design, ‘this door is designed to be sympathetic to the Edwardian architecture of the local area, with stained glass embracing traditional textures and beautiful colours,’ explains Andrew Beale, managing director at Cotswood Doors. 

8. Add stable-style front doors to a cottage

Perfect for rural properties, stable doors are a flexible choice of period front door ideas that suits busy households. ‘The timeless style of stable doors is perfectly suited to properties in the countryside, ideal for households with young children and/or pets offering the option to open the top half of the door to receive parcels while still adding charm and beauty to your home,’ says Charles Fox, director at Timber Windows. 

9. Add colour and pattern with an 20th-century front door

The early part of the 20th century saw the return of door glazing; however, the designs were more modest than those of previous eras. One-over-three doors were popular – with a single top panel, usually glass, over three panels in the bottom two-thirds of the door. Today, this style is often painted in vibrant shades. This Linthorpe design is from ERW Joinery. 

FAQs

Ten years ago bifold doors were booming as the go-to for home renovations. However, in recent years they’ve been overtaken by the return of sliding doors as the glazing system of choice for patio doors.

On the surface, it can be hard to understand the swing in popular opinion. For homeowners looking to blur the boundaries between indoors and out, slender framed aluminium bifold can be slid to one end to completely open up the back of the home. 

However, an import from across the channel, the bifold door was designed for sunnier climates. The Great British weather highlighted a drawback - when closed the smaller glass panels and wider frames offered a more obscured view than that offered by sliding doors. 

 Why are sliding doors so popular? 

Sliding doors became a fast British home favourite because they come into their own when closed. And let's face it, in the UK they are going be closed a lot more than they are open. 

The large glass panels and minimal frames (just 20mm across in the case of IDSystems’ theEDGE2.0) mean the glass doors are able to create almost completely uninterrupted views of the outside. So you can still enjoy oodles of light and a lovely view of your garden or neighbouring landscape whatever BBC weather is predicting

 Choices, choices 

If you’re looking for choice when it comes to your patio doors you’ll be completely spoilt if you opt for sliding doors. Another reason for their popularity is that in contrast to bifold doors that are typically limited to panels between 900-1100 mm wide, individual sliding door panels can achieve widths of up to 3m wide, and overall system widths of 24m.

If that layer of choice wasn’t enough the configurations of the panels can range from a single-panel pocket door, all the way up to an 8-panel centre opening design. Popularity has only fueled the number of different sliding door systems now available. But the only way to really know which design will work for you, and how good the quality of the door system is, is to try before you buy.

On track

In the past where bifold doors might have had sliding doors beat was with the flush finish they created between the inside and out. However, the track of sliding doors can be fully recessed into the floor to appear almost invisible. 

There’s also the added bonus that they don’t rely on a brush pile to provide the seal, like a bifold door, so they are fully weather protected.  

 An ace in its pocket 

A final feature continuing to drive the demand for sliding doors has been developments in pocket sliding door designs and open corner designs. The trend-setting pocket sliding door allows the panels to slide into a pocket in the wall to create a completely unobstructed view when open. While the open corner sliding doors create a frameless look when the panels are slid away from the corner. 

However, for anyone who still wants the benefits of a bifold and sliding door, IDSystems has created a third option with the swiss designed vistaline slide and turn doors. These feature the same narrow frames as sliding doors, but the panels stack to one end to completely open like bifold doors.

For more information about sliding doors, including the multi-award-winning range from IDSystems visit www.idsystems.co.uk or to talk to an expert project advisor about your plans, call 01603 408804 or email info@idsystems.co.uk. 

When it comes to UK homes, double glazed windows are pretty standard and all new builds now feature double glazing. But as any homeowner knows, windows don't last forever. And if you are planning on new windows, you'll need to factor in how much double glazing costs so you can effectively set your budget.

When looking at the types of glazing you could choose from, you might also be weighing up the pros and cons of double vs triple glazing to see which is better for your home. In addition to thermal efficiency, energy ratings and security, cost will play a large part in your decision making.

In many cases, double glazing will be the right solution to make your home feel warmer and make it more efficient, which can lower your energy bills. Here we've broken down how much you can expect to pay for double glazing, as well as the factors that will impact the cost.

How much does double glazing cost?

When determining how much double glazing will cost, you need to factor in the frame material you want, the spec of the glass, and whether you need a standard size window or something more bespoke.

Liam Spencer, owner of Northallerton Glass, says: 'For the average three bedroom house, double glazing can cost anywhere between £8,000 and £15,000, depending on the total amount of windows that the house has. However, you may also need to pay a further few hundred pounds to cover the labour costs of installation.'

Frame costs

When it comes to frames, there is a lot to think about. The most popular frame materials are uPVC, aluminium and timber, but each have their own set of pros and cons. While timber windows might require more maintenance, aluminium windows are virtually maintenance-free. Aluminium frames are also incredibly durable and long-lasting, but come with a higher price tag, whereas uPVC windows are cheaper but have a shorter shelf life. We've done a deeper dive on whether aluminium windows are better than uPVC if you need more detailed advice.

Liam explains: 'A single double glazed window with a uPVC frame can cost between £300 and £900 for a casement style window. For the same style of window with a timber frame this can be up to double the price, at £1,100 to £1,800 per window. Double glazed windows with aluminium frames are more expensive than uPVC but less than timber, with prices estimated at around £700 to £1,100 for a single casement window.'

Victoria Brocklesby, COO at Origin adds, ‘Traditionally, uPVC has been the cheapest option, and timber the most expensive, but this is shifting. With the costs of plastics increasing exponentially post-COVID, uPVC costs are now significantly higher than they used to be and, in some cases, have overtaken more robust alternatives, such as aluminium.’

Installation costs

While installation costs shouldn’t vary too drastically between frame materials, fitting timber windows may cost more than uPVC. 'It generally costs more for installation if you use timber,' says Robert Owens, sales manager at Westbury Windows & Joinery. 'uPVC and aluminium tend to come with cheaper labour costs. It’s a more skilled job for a carpenter to install wood windows and doors.'

According to Checkatrade, £25-£35 per day is the average rate for an experienced window fitter. However, these rates are likely to be higher in London and the South East.

Maintenance costs

You’ll be able to keep on top of most of the upkeep – including cleaning your windows and lubricating the moving parts – yourself. However, timber does require more upkeep than uPVC and aluminium. It will need re-painting and/or re-varnishing every several years.

According to Quote Advisor, the average cost of re-painting wood windows on a semi-detached house will be between £2,500 and £2,700 (including labour, paint and materials).

Victoria Brocklesby from Origin adds: 'Timber frames tend to be most expensive as they are most susceptible to degradation when exposed to the elements. They may need sanding and resealing, depending on the finish, and likely will need to be replaced the soonest.'

Ryan Schofield from Thames Valley Window Company adds, 'It’s important to remove bird droppings immediately as the uric acid in the droppings can cause permanent damage to wooden windows especially.'

What factors affect the cost of your double glazing?

There are various factors that can affect the cost of your double glazing, including:

• The number of windows you have
• The type of windows you choose, a bay or picture window will cost more than a smaller casement window
• The type of glass will impact the cost. Upgrading the glass spec to include soundproofing or a solar control coating will increase your overall bill. As will going for laminated, acoustic or decorative glass. 'If you want a dual colour finish where the windows are a different colour inside and out, that would cost more,' says Robert Owens from Westbury Windows & Joinery.
• Where you live is also an important factor. If you live in London, you can expect to pay more
• If you're project requires a complex installation process. Liam explains: 'The complexity of the installation process can affect the overall cost of double glazing, which could include structural modifications or how easily accessible the windows are.'

Depending on your project, different installation options may affect the purchase price. 'If you’re replacing existing windows then typically, installation costs will be factored into the cost of the products you’re looking for,' says Edward Stobart, sales manager at IDSystems. 'If you’re installing windows in a new extension or self-build, then ordering windows on a supply-only basis for your builder to fit will likely reduce the budget required. Make sure your builder is happy to do this and it’s included in the quote before ordering.'

What's the cost difference between double and triple glazing?

If you are looking to improve your home's energy efficiency, you might be considering whether triple glazing is worth it. However, if you're tempted to forgo double glazing in favour of triple, this would be an expensive choice that might not be necessary.

While double glazing for a three-bed house could cost between £8,000 and £15,000, triple glazing is considerably more. Liam says: 'In comparison, triple glazing for the average three bedroom house can cost between £9,600 and £14,400 depending on how many windows are required.'

But in the UK, unless you are looking to build to Passivhaus standards, which are incredibly strict, you probably don't need triple glazing. But do speak to your supplier to make sure you choose the right option for your specific needs.

However, if your home currently has single glazing, double glazing could be a great way to improve thermal efficiency. However if you live in a period home, this might not be an option and you might want to look into secondary glazing instead.

FAQs

Is it worth replacing 20 year old double glazing?

If you're existing double glazing is more than 20 years old, it's worth assessing whether it is still fit for purpose, or whether it needs replacing.

Paul Oxley, a windows and doors expert at Clearview, says: 'It all depends on the condition of the windows, window seals, existing double glazed units, and security features. Generally older windows will suffer from wear and tear and may not close and seal properly.'

He goes on to say: 'Some are externally glazed, don't incorporate multipoint locking mechanisms, and will certainly not have been required to meet the same thermal performance standards, which newer ones achieve today.'

As well as contributing to a fresh new look and improved security, replacing your double glazing could also improve your home's thermal performance. Liam explains: 'Outdated double glazing could be potentially costing you a lot of money, and you can make your home much warmer during winter by fitting new, higher performing windows. This can minimise heat loss in a property, reduce draughts and improve the overall thermal efficiency of your home.'

If you are wanting to upgrade the windows in an older home, you should get expert advice so that you don't inadvertently ruin the character of your old home by installing double glazing.

If you are looking at new double glazing for your home, remember to factor in your patio doors and think about replacing your front door for maximum impact.

When it comes to bringing the outside in, sliding patio doors are increasingly popular option. Not only can they improve connection with the garden, but also increase the amount of natural light that floods into your home, which has proven benefits on your health and wellbeing.

But with other patio door styles available, how do you know whether sliding doors are the right choice for your home? With input from sliding door specialists, we've broken down everything you need to know to make the right decision — considering everything from the bifold versus sliding doors debate, material and configuration options to how much they cost and the level of maintenance required.

Are sliding patio doors a good idea?

'There has been a noted increase in the popularity of sliding doors in recent years, which has seen a resurgence in the use of aluminium profiles,' says Ryan Schofield, Managing Director, Thames Valley Window Company. 'Sliding doors have evolved a lot over the decades, in terms of both their visual appeal and the technology and engineering behind their manufacture.'

But while sliding doors have some impressive benefits, they also have some drawbacks that will need to be considered.

Pros of sliding doors

• Can offer an improved connection to the garden thanks to large expanses of glass
• Depending on the material you choose, frames can be very thin
• Large sizes possible in a variety of configurations
• Can create wow-factor indoor/outdoor spaces
• Space-saving option as doors don't swing inwards or outwards
• Range of frame materials and colours to choose from.

Cons of sliding doors

• Don't open as wide as bifold doors
• Can be expensive depending on size and configuration as well as frame material and glazing choice
• No option for an access door
• May not be suitable for those with accessibility concerns due to lack of a level threshold

How big can sliding doors be?

The good news is that sliding doors can be configured to fit any size opening (although structural considerations will need to be made for larger apertures). Configurations can range in terms of the number of panels, which can open in the same direction or away from each other depending on the size and your personal preference.

'Sliding doors tend to be made up of two to six panels of glass, which slide sideways, along a track (as opposed to bi-fold doors which fold in a concertina-style manner)', says Ryan. 'They can be designed in a choice of configurations and sliding combinations, or even lift and slide variations for ease of operation with heavier panels.'

If you are really keen on opening up your home to the garden, sliding patio doors can also be used to open up the whole corner of a room, which can look pretty spectacular. You can also use them in combination with picture windows to flood your space with light, and create a real statement space.

What's the best frame material for sliding doors?

You have a few choices when it comes to frame materials for your sliding doors, and the best choice will depend on the look you are trying to achieve, what your budget is and how much maintenance you are willing to take on.

Aluminium is a popular choice. It's strong, which means thinner frames to hold the glass, lightweight, durable and low maintenance. You can also get frames in a range of colours to suit your home. However, all of these benefits come with a higher price tag than other materials. Plus, aluminium can look out of place on period homes.

At the budget end, there's uPVC. These have a lower cost than aluminium frames, so can be a great choice if you are on a tight budget. But it's not as strong as aluminium, which means thicker frames are required that might not be the look you are going for. You'll also find your colour options are limited and they might not have the same long-lifespan as aluminium.

If you want something to suit an older home, you can get timber framed sliding doors. This can help achieve a characterful look and is a sustainable option (if sourced from FSC certified forests. But they can be prone to movement and might require more maintenance than aluminium. Go for hardwood or engineered timber if your budget allows. If you choose softwood, make sure there's a decent guarantee, as these can be a little more flimsy.

You could also choose a composite frame, which is aluminium on the outside and timber on the inside. This can be an ideal option if you want the low maintenance of aluminium and the warmth of the wood.

At the top end, you can buy frameless structural sliding glass, but you'll need very deep pockets.

How much do sliding doors cost?

There are a few factors that will affect the cost of your sliding patio doors, from the frame and glass you choose, the number of panels and how you want them to open as well as the type of track the doors run on.

Thomas Oldham, Co-Founder, UK Construction Blog says: 'In terms of price, sliding doors fall somewhere in the middle. Expect to pay between £800 and £2,600 for uPVC, £1,165 to £3,075 for aluminium, and £1,345 to £3,550 for timber versions. The final cost depends on factors like size, material, and the number of panels, as well as your location.'

When it comes to how sliding door prices compare to bifolds and French doors, Paul Oxley, windows and doors expert at Clearview, says the prices are pretty comparable for smaller openings but you can see sliding door costs rise the bigger you go. He says: 'When you go to much larger sizes, sliding doors are more expensive due to the increased m2 cost of glass and a more labour needed to install.'

If you opt for triple over double glazing, you can also expect to pay more.

Where to buy sliding patio doors

• The Alternative Window Company
• Anglian
• Express Bi-Folding Doors
• IQ Glass
• Kloeber
• Origin
• Sunflex UK
• Thames Valley Window Company
• Vufold

What kind of maintenance do sliding door require?

Whatever frame material or configuration you choose, the fitting process is critical. If the sliding doors aren't installed correctly, you'll know about it at some point down the line, even if they seem to work fine at first. And this could be costly. So best to leave the installation to the professionals if you want to keep maintenance low.

But if fitted correctly, maintenance should be pretty straightforward, but you'll need to check with your supplier whether any specific maintenance is required depending on the type of frame you choose. When it comes to maintaining aluminium sliding doors, Thomas says: 'Just clean the glass, frames, and tracks regularly to keep everything in top shape.'

He adds: 'Also, avoid lubricating aluminium tracks, as it can attract dirt and make things worse. A quick seasonal check will keep your doors running smoothly and quietly, letting in fresh air with ease.'

It's worth vacuuming the track and wiping round the roller mechanism every couple of weeks or so to make sure there are no obstructions. If you are having problems, you can usually learn how to fix glass sliding doors yourself.

How do sliding doors compare to bifold doors?

You might find yourself torn between sliding and bifold doors, so how do they compare? While sliding doors slide back and forth along a track, bifold doors subdivide the glass multiple times and need stacking space when opening.

While both can offer a stylish connection to the garden, sliding doors won’t open up quite as much as bifold doors, as the sliding panel sits behind another. So while a bifold door could open up a space almost entirely, a two pane sliding door will only allow a 50% opening (or a two-thirds opening on a three-pane configuration (unless you opt for a pocket door style).

As bifold doors can be folded back completely, they may be the better option if your main concern is to have plenty of space for people to flow from the kitchen to the garden. If you're more interested in garden views and are happy with a door that simply slides from side to side, sliding doors are a safe option.

If accessibility is a concern, then sliding doors may not be the option for you. 'Bifold doors can also be installed with either a level or weathered threshold, whereas a sliding patio door cannot have a level threshold,' says Victoria Brocklesby, COO, Origin. 'A level threshold removes trip hazards, creating a seamless transition which is a great option for people looking to make homes as accessible as possible.'

If you want to bring even more light into your home, you could team your sliding patio doors with another type of window, like a picture window, too.

Creating a seamless transition from inside to outside has become increasingly popular in recent years, and it’s no surprise why. Who wouldn’t want a gorgeous kitchen extension that can easily be opened up to an outdoor dining area for snuggling around a fire in winter, or enjoying a cocktail in summer?

Unfortunately, with most traditional aluminium frame sliding doors or bifold doors the effect of opening up to the outside is often interrupted. Each has their benefits - bifold doors can be stacked to completely open a room up while sliding doors have the benefit of large glass panels and slim frames letting in plenty of light.

However, there is now a third option. Unlike the other two options, slide and turn doors are relatively new to the market. Slide and turn doors, including IDSystems’ award-winning vistaline system, combine the narrow sightlines of sliding doors with the option to completely open up the space like bifold doors.

Innovative design for a seamless transition

The perk of slide-and-turn doors is that they can be stacked out of the way completely opening up and a room to the outside. However, when they’re in place the combination of narrow sightlines and large panes of glass offer uninterrupted vistas of the surroundings.

IDSystems work by using non-connected panels that can slide to one end where they can be turned and stacked out of the way. You have the choice to use a few in place, offering a fully customizable approach to opening up your space that can change daily.

Security and warmth

If the idea of installing wall-to-wall glazed doors has your teeth chattering in anticipation of chilly winters don’t fear. The vistaline system is triple-glazed as standard. The true innovation of the slide and turn doors from IDSystems is in the side jamb and track. The handle extends the jamb outwards to compress the panels together to create a weather-tight and secure connection between the panels. 

The patented ‘flipper seal’ technology in the top and base of the track turns 90 degrees to connect with the panels and create a weather seal to keep wind and rain out. 

For more information about slide & turn doors visit www.idsystems.co.uk/vistaline or to talk to one of IDSystems expert project advisors call 01603 408804 or email info@idsystems.co.uk.

If the entrance to your home is looking tired and seems ineffective, then it's a strong sign that you should think about replacing your front door.

Embracing a new front door idea can be done as an isolated task or you could tackle it when you're replacing your windows too, to boost your home's kerb appeal and improve it's efficiency at the same time.

While style is important when it comes to choosing a new front door, it's not the only factor that should be considered. You'll want to think about energy efficiency, security, and how much a new front door costs. To help you decide, we've broken down all you need to know to choose a front door that sets the right tone for your home, and offers the best performance in terms of functionality.

Types of replacement front doors

One of your first decisions will be around what type of replacement front door you want, and this will usually come down to material in the first instance.

Each material has its down set of benefits and drawbacks when it comes to look, performance, cost and maintenance requirements that will need to be considered. You'll need to factor in the style and age of your property to ensure you choose something that will complement the rest of your home, and it's location and orientation will play a crucial part in your decision making too, as Thomas Oldham, Co-Founder of UK Construction Blog, explains: 'Consider where your door is located - extreme weather conditions, like harsh sun or heavy rain, can affect which material is best.'

We've broken down the options below.

1. Wood front doors

Wood is a popular choice among homeowners, as it looks good, is eco-friendly (if sourced from sustainably-managed forests) and suits traditional properties — look for hardwoods that bring a variation of hues and style to your home, such as oak or walnut. ‘Timber doesn’t date, and it can be renewed by sanding back and retreating,’ adds Elizabeth Assaf, Designer and Co-Founder at Urban Front. ‘It’s easy to be creative with a bespoke design using wood.’

However, wood does require careful upkeep to keep it in good shape, says Thomas: ‘Solid wood doors offer that classic charm and decent insulation, but they do need some upkeep to avoid warping over time.’ Wood front doors will need to be treated with oil, lacquer or paint to withstand the weather and this will need to be redone every six to eight years. 'Just remember: don’t let looks be the deciding factor,' adds Thomas. 'A beautiful wood door might be tempting, but it might not be the best choice for a sun-soaked south-facing entry unless it’s protected from the elements.'

In terms of price, a hardwood front door is a more premium option with a higher price.

2. uPVC front doors

If you want to replace your front door on a budget, then plastic is an affordable and low-maintenance option. Martin Matthews, assistant buyer of timber and joinery at B&Qadds: 'Not only is this low maintenance material great value for money, its weather resistant qualities also make it an ideal choice for those looking for a durable and long-lasting door.'

Front doors made from uPVC are also available in a variety of colours and designs, which gives you plenty of options when it comes to choosing a door that suits your home. ‘Gone are the days when white was the only colour available,’ adds Jill McLintock, Head of Product Marketing at Everest. ‘Anthracite grey, for instance, is an increasingly popular choice at the moment, for modern and more traditional properties alike.’

While they might suit your budget, uPVC doors have a limited lifespan and aren't easily recycled, which may be a deal breaker from a sustainability point of view.

3. Metal front doors

Metal is gaining popularity as a material for front doors, thanks to its strength, security, energy efficiency and low maintenance. Steel doors are super-strong, but can be heavy, so it's worthwhile looking at a lightweight alternative — aluminium. ‘Aluminium front doors are incredibly strong and secure, but also light and resilient to adverse weather conditions,’ says Victoria Brocklesby, COO at Origin.

From a sustainability perspective, aluminium front doors tend to offer low U-values thanks to their insulating core, which means they'll help keep your house warm. Aluminium is also infinitely recyclable.

When it comes to maintenance, aluminium front doors are virtually maintenance-free, which is a huge positive for many homeowners.

But these benefits do come at a a premium cost. ‘Aluminium is positioned at the top of the price range; however, it offers clear benefits to homeowners, providing the very highest standards in terms of security, construction, performance, and choice,’ says David O’Mara, Marketing Manager at Hörmann UK.

While an aluminium front door might be more expensive upfront, it's durability, lifespan and efficiency can mean it turns out more cost-effective in the long run.

4. Composite front doors

Composite doors are made from several different materials. They feature a reinforced frame core with a thermally efficient layer, making a strong and high performing door. The outer material can be a variety of materials, including uPVC, GRP (glass reinforced plastic) or timber.

Composite doors are a mid-price option – not as cheap as uPVC but not as expensive as aluminium or hardwood timber products. They are generally low-maintenance doors; simply keep them looking fresh with a soft cloth and warm soapy water. They also come in a wide range of finishes and paint colours with a broad choice of handles and door accessories, so you can completely personalise the door to fit the style of your property.

What are the glazing options for your replacement front door?

There are lots of options for your door’s glazing and glass will help to turn your entrance into a statement feature. You might also be able to choose between double and triple glazing. But you'll need to make sure the glazing design you choose suits your choice of door.

‘The look and/or colour of the glazing is always a matter of personal choice, but a Georgian-style composite door would suit different glazing options to a 1930s Art Deco-style door, and different again to a more contemporary aluminium door,’ says Jill McLintock from Everest.

Security is also key: ‘Laminated glass is made by adding a sandwich of plastic laminate between two panes. This holds the glass together when broken, making it very difficult to gain access to the home in the event of an attempted break-in,’ adds Jill. Your chosen glass should meet Building Regulations requirements, but do check with your supplier.

How can I tell if a replacement front door is energy efficient?

When you're replacing your front door, you'll want to check how energy efficient it is. After all, you don't want to go to all that effort and then find you have to worry about how to draught-proof your front door.

If you are looking at various front door types, it's worth noting their U-values, which indicates heat loss. The lower the U-value, the lower the heat loss. By bearing this in mind, you can ensure that you pick a front door that will help keep your home warm, and your energy bills under control.

What security features should you look for?

Your locks are obviously a main consideration when it comes to your home’s security. The door type could impact what type of lock is best. For instance, traditional timber doors might feature a pair of locks (such as a mortise lock and night latch), whereas other styles may use multi-point locking systems. Many home insurance companies will specify that locks need to conform to British Standard 3621. You can expect modern products to meet this, but it’s always worth double checking. Ask your door provider what security accreditations their products carry.

If you want to incorporate some smart tech into your home, then your front door is a good place to start. ‘Doors can be opened and closed via radio buttons, finger-scanners or a hand-held transmitter, whilst our app provides control from a smartphone,’ says David O’Mara from Hörmann UK. Video door bells are also available if you don’t want to include a viewing pane in your door.

Can you replace a front door without replacing the frame?

Whether you can just replace the door itself or need to replace the door and frame, will depend on the condition of your existing frame, and the kind of door you plan on buying.

If you are replacing like-for-like, then you may be able to just replace the door, which may help to keep costs down. But many front doors are sold as doorsets. ‘A doorset is the door, frame, and accompanying locks/door furniture all fitted and ready for installation,’ says Elizabeth Assaf. ‘If you change only the door, the new door has to be the same thickness and it would need a good carpenter to redo hinges, locks etc.’

If you are opting for a completely different type of door, then a doorset made for your aperture’s specific measurements, may actually be the most suitable option.

How much does a replacement front door cost?

How much you pay for your replacement front door will depend on the material you choose and whether you opt for bespoke glazing or hi-tech security features. In most cases, costs include installation.

At the budget end, you could pay about £400, while the upper end of the scale could hit £3,000 or more. Make sure you have an idea of your budget when you shop around to avoid disappointment.

If you aren't sure where to source your new front door, we've listed some helpful options below:

• Anglian
• B&Q
• Everest
• Kloeber UK
• Mumford & Wood
• Origin
• Rockdoor
• Solidor
• Vufold
• Wickes

Arrange to see the doors in person if you can to make sure you choose the right option.

Are front doors easy to replace?

Replacing your front door is usually relatively easy, and should take anywhere from a couple of hours to a day, depending on the complexity of the task.

If you are a competent DIYer you might be tempted to install it yourself, but this isn't usually recommended as the front door is crucial to your home's security and thermal efficiency. This means it's vital that it's done correctly, so that the door performs as it should. ‘Bespoke front doors require expert installation from experienced tradespeople, so we would never recommend that homeowners install products themselves,’ says Victoria Brocklesby. ‘If done incorrectly, it can compromise the integrity of the door and void the guarantee.’

If you're not in a position to replace your front door right now, there are multiple ways you can make your existing front door more attractive instead.

If you want to replace front door glass, your motivation and the door material will affect what type of glass and fixing is best.

Perhaps you’re fed up with getting a cold draught through the door and want to upgrade to a more energy efficient product. Going from single glazing to double could save you money. Or maybe you simply want to change the look of your door without the cost of replacing the whole thing.

Just like replacement windows, if you have broken front door glass, it’s a risk to your home’s security and should tackled as soon as possible. If the pane appears hazy, this is a tell-tale sign the seal is damaged, which could negatively impact on the energy efficiency of your property.

Your reasoning will also impact on whether the job should be done by a professional. ‘If you have reasonable DIY skills then you can look at doing this yourself, but if it’s timber beaded or double glazed, it’s probably best left to a specialist,’ says Phil Roberts, Glazing Manager at Sheerwater Glass. 

Whatever your reason for replacing front door glass, here’s what you need to know to do the job successfully.

How to replace front door glass

1. Work out what kind of glass you want to use

Want replace front door glass? The first step is to decide what style of glass will suit the door. Traditional-looking front doors often feature glass with decorative patterns and colours, known as ornamental glass. Seek out designs that suit the period of your property. Contemporary doors in newer properties, on the other hand, can take large glass panes. You could use frosted or textured glass to maintain privacy too. 

Thermal performance is also an important consideration when replacing front door glass. Types of glazing vary, but investing in double glazing or even triple glazing will help to stop heat from leaking out of your home. You'll need to check whether it’s feasible to install thicker, heavier panes in your existing door.

Safety glass (toughened or laminated) is often needed in front doors. You can find the requirements in the Building Regulations.

2. Understand how the glass is held in place

Front door glass panes can be secured in several ways, usually depending on the door material. This will impact how you remove and fit the glass. You can usually tell what style it is by looking at the door.
• Timber doors are likely to use wooden beads (mouldings) around the edge of the glass. With some timber doors, the glass is simply held in place with putty, which doubles up as a sealant.

• PVCu doors tend to use plastic beads and silicone.

It’s important to understand the makeup of your door before you start doing the job because you might want to reuse the beads.

3. Measure and get glass cut

‘Measure the gap for the glass. Allow a bit of tolerance because the door material is likely to move a bit around the glass. Timber will swell in winter and PVCu in the summer,’ advises Phil Roberts.

Take your measurements to a glass merchant that offers the type of glass you want. Cutting glass requires specialist tools and machinery. Don’t attempt this yourself unless you know what you’re doing.

4. Have the right equipment

Working with glass is dangerous, so wear safety glasses and safety gloves. Have the right tools for the type of door. ‘You’ll need a putty knife and hammer for putty application; chisel and hammer for timber beaded doors; and PVCu doors require a sharp implement and hammer/mallet,’ says Phil Roberts.

When removing the glass, you might want an extra pair of hands to hold the glass in place as you remove fastenings to stop it from slipping out of the frame. If you’re doing the job solo, it’s probably best to remove the door from the frame and lay flat to reduce the distance any glass can fall.

If the glass is broken, put duct tape across the glass to stop pieces falling out when you remove it.

5. Remove front door glass

For glass held in place with putty, carefully remove the putty with a utility knife. The glass will then lift out.
Timber beading is usually tacked on with small nails, and possibly adhesive. This should typically come away easily with a putty knife or chisel. If the sections are in good condition and you can avoid breaking them, you might be able to reuse them. 

On PVCu doors, mouldings can usually be prised away intact with a putty knife. If they are stuck fast, you may need to carefully score down the adhesive edge with a Stanley knife.

Once you’ve removed the glass, be sure to clean away any leftover glue or putty from the door. This leaves a clean space for your new glass to be fitted.
On timber doors, a light sanding may be required to provide a good key for any new adhesive.

6. Replace front door glass

To make the job easier, have someone hold the replacement glass in position while you work to avoid breakages. Timber mouldings can usually be tacked in with lost head nails. Any imperfections and joins can then be puttied prior to painting. Plastic beads are commonly stuck on with adhesive, but larger sections may be held in place with screws.
If you’re using glass putty, make sure to knead it first to become the right pliable consistency. Push the putty firmly but carefully against the edge of the glass and into the rebate (between the glass and frame). Smooth the edges with a putty knife and remove any excess. Always allow it to dry before painting your front door.

If you’re in the process of making energy efficient upgrades to your windows, you may wondering 'how much is secondary glazing?'. You'll be pleased to hear secondary glazing offers a cost-effective alternative to double glazing.

So what is secondary glazing and is it worth it? Let’s start with the basics. Secondary glazing involves fitting an extra pane of glass or plastic to the inside of an existing window, creating a thermal barrier in the middle. The installation process removes the need to replace the entire window. When it comes to replacement windows, this is typically what makes double glazing cost more in the first place.

How much does secondary glazing cost?

As a rough guide, expect to budget a minimum of £5,000 to install secondary glazing throughout a three-bed home. Cheaper, DIY systems are available for less. But at the other end of the scale, high-quality metal frame setups could end up costing in the region of £10,000.

'There is such a wide variety of secondary glazing options available, so the cost really does depend on numerous things,' says Dave Mechem, director of inspection and assessment at RISA. 'From the material and style of secondary glazing to the size of the property, there are a range of variables that can impact the cost.'

On average, secondary glazing costs sit between £300 and £500 per pane. Of course, this varies depending in the number of windows you’re upgrading and the type of system you decide to install. Plus, some systems can be installed on a DIY basis, while others will require a specialist fitting team that you’ll need to factor into your budget.

When you’re shopping around, you’ll also need to decide on the level of functionality your secondary system should have. For instance, are you looking for a temporary solution to draught-proof existing windows during chilly winter months, which can be unclipped and lifted out in summer? Or are you looking for a permanent double-glazed layer that complements the aesthetic of a characterful period home?

'Material costs are fluctuating a lot a the moment, too,' says Dave Mechem. 'To get an accurate quote, you should consider getting in touch with a FENSA approved installer.'

Another key question to ask is: does secondary glazing work? In short, yes; though its effectiveness depends on the type of system you install. Greenmatch estimates that you could save as much as £45 on utility bills per month in a medium-sized home.

Types of secondary glazing and what they cost

Is secondary glazing worth it? We break down the types of glazing for your windows and the prices involved...

1. Removable magnetic secondary glazing

This system uses magnetic strips to fix the secondary pane onto the primary window. The magnetic seal prevents air from escaping. Magnetic removable screens could set you back less than £100 per m2, or between £1,500 and £2,000 for a whole medium-sized house.

2. Temporary (lift-out) secondary glazing

A single pane of glass or plastic that is installed on top of a fixed primary window in your home. On the plus side, being able to lift the frame out means you can clean it more easily, plus the primary window on the other side. Expect to pay between £3,500 and £4,000 for an entire medium-sized house.

3. Permanent secondary glazing

These solutions can be side hung (over a vertical pane or a sash window) or sliding (vertical or horizontal). Sliding solutions tend to be the most expensive, sitting at £5,000+ for an entire medium-sized house. Premium framing materials, such as wood or aluminium (or other types of metal), come with a higher starting price.

'For a professionally installed system, we’d recommend budgeting between £5,000 and £10,000 to install secondary glazing in a three-bed house,' says Andrew Smith, owner and director at City Sound Glazing. 'This figure is based on our aluminium frame system, including supply and installation.' Investing in higher quality materials, however, also means your system will offer a longer service life.

4. Draft-reducing windows vs soundproof windows

As with any type of window, the glass you choose for the pane will impact on the cost. Draft reducing secondary glazing could cost up to £900 per pane, whereas solutions that are also designed to reduce noise from the outside may cost £1,000+ per pane.

Secondary glazing installation costs

Many temporary secondary glazing products can be installed on a DIY basis, either by clipping or screwing in the panel. Meaning they come with no installation costs at all.

If you’re paying for a professional to come and fit secondary glazing, expect to pay a day rate between £120 and £160, according to Checkatrade. If you’re going with a supply and fit company, like City Sound Glazing, the cost of installation will be included in the price.

Maintenance costs

Secondary windows with wood frames will cost more to maintain. You’ll need to re-paint and/or re-varnish the surrounds every several years. If you can do the job yourself, you’ll only need to factor in the cost of the varnish and/or paint. If this isn’t a job you fancy tackling, expect to pay upwards of £400 for the all the windows in your house to be re-painted. This depends on where you live and how many windows you have. Aluminium and UPVC are low-maintenance and will just require cleaning, which you can do yourself.

If you’re investing in a high-quality set of windows and having them installed professionally, check the quality of the guarantee before buying. Any serious issues regarding the installation of your windows should be covered by that, so you won’t have to pay extra to get them fixed.

The verdict – is secondary glazing worth it?

'Secondary glazing is a cost-effective way to insulate and sound-proof windows,' says Lisa Morton, director at Architectural Bronze Casements. 'Plus, there is much less disruption and heat loss during installation. And there is no masonry, dust or making good after the windows have been fitted.'

Secondary windows are also an effective way to keep your home warm if you can’t install double glazed units because your home is listed or in a conservation area, for instance.

Installing double or triple-glazed windows does represent a bigger investment in the short-term. However, if you aren’t restricted by any planning guidelines, you stand to make bigger savings on your energy bills in the long-term.

There’s more than just aesthetics to think about when choosing types of glazing for your home. With energy costs on the rise, thermal performance will be a key factor in your window decision, too. When it comes to replacement windows, there’s a lot to get your head around. So it’s worth getting familiar with the industry terminology around all the different glass specifications.

'The older the glazing, the worse the thermal performance,' says Dave Mechem, director of inspection and assessment at RISA, part of the Glazing & Glass Federation. 'Up to 24% of heat energy can escape from old, draughty glazing.'

Inert gas fillings, solar control coatings and acoustic glass are all possibilities to boost your windows’ performance. Plus, if you have ambitious goals for your property’s thermal capabilities, it's worth looking at the benefits of upgrading to triple glazing over double.

The types of glazing you choose impacts on how much heat is retained vs lost. 'The energy rating of windows, from A to G, reflects this absorption of heat,' says Neal Harper, managing director at Wolverhampton Glass. 'The top rating is given to windows that absorb as much heat as they lose. This includes both double and triple glazed solutions.'

The Energy Saving Trust estimates that by installing A-rated double-glazed windows in an entirely single-glazed detached house, you could save between £120 and £155 per year on utility bills.

What is window glazing?

Glazing is the glass component encased within the window frame. Multiple factors determine the thermal performance of your windows. This includes the quality of the installation and frame material (UPVC, timber, metal etc).

'The type of glazing you choose can make a huge difference to the thermal performance of your property,' says Matt Higgs, director at Kloeber. 'Heat loss from inside to outside (measured in U-values) is a big consideration. As is the thickness of the glass and the width of the space between panes.'

What types of glazing are there?

When it comes to specification, remember that your chosen glazing will impact on other areas of performance. This includes the design, acoustics and overall light levels. Security and privacy are other key areas to consider when looking at types of glazing.

This is especially important when considering traditional windows for period homes as traditional double glazing might not be the best option.

Insulating glass

This type of window reduces heat loss by comprising multiple panes of glass, sealed into one unit, with a gas filling in the middle. 'A double pane insulated glass unit (IGU) is a system with two panes separated by a gas. A triple pane IGU contains three panes of glass,' says Liam Hulme, managing director at Global Windows. Typically, argon or krypton are used between the panes of glass. Because of the dense qualities, they help reduce the rate of heat conductivity between the panes.

In today’s energy conscious climate, it’s rare to fit single glazing in any property. The exception, perhaps, is in historic homes where like-for-like period replacements are required by the conservation officer. Most new build homes come with double glazing as standard to ensure Building Regulations are met (in terms of heat loss). Mixing double and triple-glazing is another option if you have higher aspirations for your house’s energy performance. Consider installing triple-glazed units on the cooler, northern side of the house, and double-glazing on the warmer south side.

'Changes to Building Regulations announced in 2021 have increased the performance required by new windows and doors. So check that the products you’re choosing comply with the new, stricter standards,' says Edward Stobart, sales manager at IDSystems.

Solar reduction glass

Solar control glass features a special metal oxide coating to reduce the amount of heat entering the building. 'The coating is invisible to the naked eye and prevents short wave radiation from the sun entering your home,' says Shannon Normoyle, digital marketing executive at IQ Glass. This finish helps prevent overheating. It's typically used on the south-facing side of properties that get the most sun.

'There are a variety of specs for solar control coatings, with the most popular being 70/35. This means it lets through 70% of light whilst reducing the G factor (how much radiation can pass through the glass) to 35%,' says Shannon Normoyle. Not only does this help with cooling costs during summer, but also allows occupants to install large areas of glazing without worrying about the possibility of overheating.

Noise reduction glass

Also known as acoustic glass, this type of glazing reduces the amount of noise that can enter your home from outside. This is great news if you live near a busy road or train line. 'It works by preventing sound waves from travelling through the sealed unit, either by absorbing or reflecting them,' says Edward Stobart from IDSystems.

If we take double glazed windows as an example; the two panes of glass will have slightly different thicknesses. There is also a sound laminate sound dampening core to help reduce noise transference.

Window safety glass

In areas where glass presents a potential hazard – for instance, structural roof glazing that’s installed overhead – safety glass is used. The glass is typically strengthened via a heat treatment process. This means it splits into tiny pieces when it breaks, rather than shattering into large and dangerous shards.

'Another option is to use some sort of interlayer, such as a PVB (polyvinyl butyral). If the glass is broken the panes are held in place,' says Shannon Normoyle.

Structured glass

Often used to create design wow-factor, large sheets of frameless glass take some of the weight of the surrounding structure. 'Completely frameless sliding glass doors are one example,' says Steve Rawding, sales and marketing director at SEH BAC. 'Glass extensions are increasingly popular with homeowners as a way of increasing space and natural light without the frames and limited structural possibilities associated with a traditional conservatory.'

Other options include structural glass roofs, glass walls or streamlined picture windows. However, the design and engineering for structural glazing is typically quite complex, so it’s important to work with a specialist glazier who has plenty of experience working with this type of installation.

What is double glazing?

This type of insulating glass comprises two panes of glass, with a gap in between that forms a thermal barrier. The cavity between the glass can be filled with an inert gas (eg krypton, argon or xenon) to further boost your window’s thermal performance.

If you are wanting to upgrade from single glazing, you should check whether upgrading to double glazing may ruin the appearance of an old house before you go ahead.

What is triple glazing?

While double-glazing works by trapping a layer of air between two panes of glass, triple-glazing provides extra insulation by adding in a third sheet to form an additional thermal barrier. 'There are many benefits to triple-glazing, such as better insulation, lower energy bills and a warmer home in winter,' says Liam Hulme from Global Windows. Triple-glazing is most often specified in homes in particularly chilly or exposed locations, or as part of projects where energy-efficiency is a top priority (eg Passivhaus self builds).

What type of glazing is better? Double or triple?

While triple-glazed windows will help save more energy, the initial outlay for supply and installation will be greater than for double-glazed windows. 'It’s not always a case of the more panes of glass, the better,' says Victoria Brocklesby, COO at Origin. 'It would seem logical that triple-glazing would be the pinnacle choice for glazing doors and windows. In our experience demand for this solution is dropping.' Unless you have specific energy goals for your home, high-quality double-glazing should hit your thermal performance objectives without any issues.

In some cases, it might be better to invest in types of glazing with a special coating. 'When you’ve got special coated glass you can not only get the same level of insulation you would with a triple glazed unit, but you can get extra benefits. This includes enhanced security and improved noise reduction,' says Steve Rawding from SEH BAC. 'Smart low-e coatings provide a one-way door for trapping and holding energy and will stop 56% more internal heat escaping.'

Do you need replacement windows for your home? Well-maintained windows are the crowning glory of a period property and sometimes a simple update is enough or fully replacing original windows is necessary.

Maybe you just need to figure out how to paint your window frames for a quick update, but if you feel a draught around your neck while watching telly or lying in bed, it could mean that you need replacement windows, as not only is the cold coming in, but the heat's getting out, too.

Updating your existing single-glazed or old double-glazed windows and you'll immediately notice the benefits. They include a warmer home, smaller energy bills, a lower carbon footprint, less noise outside and reduced condensation. In most cases, you won't need planning permission for windows, but the rules may be different if you live in a Conservation Area or other kinds of designated zone.

Experts at Checkatrade explain more, 'Window replacement can instantly boost the value of your property and enhance your quality of life. Aesthetic considerations aside, newly fitted windows can help you to be more energy-efficient and reduce noise pollution in your home.'

So, we've got the lowdown on everything you need to know about replacing windows.

1. Consider the different window styles

Replacing your windows can not only boost your home's kerb appeal, but also transform how you feel living in it.

The type of windows you choose will affect the appearance of your property and could decrease or increase its value, so research the options carefully.

This is especially important when considering traditional windows for period homes as there may be additional restrictions on what window styles you can use.

You should also weigh up between double and triple glazing to see which is right for your home.

Wood windows

There has been great progress in wood-window manufacturing in recent years. You can now buy windows made from wood that's been impregnated with preservatives and factory finished to a high standard. This helps prevent water penetration and reduces maintenance – so you'll only find yourself repainting every eight to 10 years.

Designs have also improved to limit heat loss and incorporate the latest thermal glazing. Find a window company that's a member of the Wood Window Alliance, which ensures high standards. 'Choose fully factory-finished wood windows to ensure the joints, seals and bits you can't see are completed to a very high standard,' says Tony Pell, chairman of the Wood Window Alliance.

Pros and cons of wood windows Good-quality timber windows can improve the look of a house, add value and last 60 years or more if well looked after. However, they will need regular maintenance and can be pricey.

Cost of wood windows Expect to pay anywhere between £350 to £1,000 per window, depending on the size and design. It can be more.

Aluminium windows

Thanks to their cool, industrial look, metal windows suit contemporary buildings, loft or warehouse conversions, and Thirties homes where they were part of the house's original design.

However, condensation can be an issue because metal frames get colder than wood or plastic. That said, modern aluminium frames can be made with a ‘thermal break’, which improves insulation and prevents condensation, too. But to know whether you should choose uPVC or aluminium, you need to consider the pros and cons.

Pros and cons of aluminium windows: Aluminium is strong and you can have very slim frames to maximize glazing. It’s low maintenance, long lasting and also comes in various colours. On the downside, they won't suit every style of house and have a high price tag.

Cost of aluminium windows: The average cost is similar to timber windows, depending on the size and design you go for.

PU and PVC windows

PVC and PU windows have become more sophisticated in recent years. Most companies offering wood-effect frames in modern and traditional styles, including simulated timber sash windows. Wood-effect frames cost about 20 per cent more than the standard white plastic frames, and come in natural finishes such as ‘rosewood’ or ‘light oak’.

Also, improvements in PVC window design mean you should easily be able to find a style to suit your property. ‘PVC windows are generally the most cost-effective choice,’ says Jill McLintock, product manager at Everest. 'Plus, nowadays, they feature the latest advances in window technology.'

Pros and cons of PVC windows They’re good value and low maintenance. However, they’re tricky to repair and the sun can render them brittle and discoloured. Plus, plastic has nearly half the lifespan of well-maintained wood or metal.

Cost of PVC windows Prices start at around £250 per window, depending on size and design.

2. Understand your glazing options

The actual glass you choose for your windows is as important as the frames themselves. There are different types of energy-efficient glass which, combined with the air-tightness of the frame, give a window its energy rating, which must be between A and C. It might be wise to visit the British Fenestration Rating Council for more information on energy ratings.

To ensure an A rating, specify glazing such as Planitherm or K Glass from Pilkington. Both of these choices have an invisible coating that reflects heat back into the room while letting in free heat from the sun. This is known as passive solar gain. ‘Low-emissivity Glass has a thermal coating for better efficiency, so it’s a great choice for energy-conscious families,’ says James Lee of MyGlazing.com

You can now also ask for triple glazing, which retains heat better than double glazing. That said, it’s an expensive choice and opinion is still divided over whether it saves enough energy to warrant the cost. MyGlazing.com is an easy-to-use consumer-advice website from the Glass and Glazing Federation, and a good place to research all types of glazing.

Top tip: Find your ideal glazing and see what you’ll save on bills with the Glass Compass app (glass-compass.com)

3. Period property? Try secondary glazing

Unless your house is listed or in a conservation area, all replacement windows must be at least double glazed to comply with building regulations. If it is listed, exemptions may apply, so it’s worth checking with your local council. If your period property isn’t allowed double glazing, or your budget’s too tight, try secondary glazing instead.

This is when an additional pane of glass or polyester film is fitted inside single glazing. It’s less costly than double glazing, so ideal if the price of replacement windows is a deterrent.

If cost is key, kits are available from DIY stores. Or you could try a company such as Ecoease, which offers both DIY kits and a made-to-measure service, for around 10-15 per cent of the cost of double glazing. Its handy plastic panels come ready-to-fit, are cheaper than adding an extra single pane of glass and can be removed in summer.

Opening a door between two areas of a home typically requires sufficient room for it to swing open. But if you are short on space, there’s an alternative way to separate rooms from one another – pocket doors that slide into a wall cavity so they’re hidden when open.

The internal doors of a home create privacy, reduce noise transmission and make rooms cocooning, and they’re also an important element of its decor. Pocket doors can deliver on all these counts, too, along with freeing you up when it comes to furniture placement. However, they are more complex to install than hinged doors, so you'll need to be sure they are right for your home and budget.

We've spoken to door experts to create this guide that has all the knowhow you need about choosing, buying and fitting pocket doors.

What is a pocket door?

A pocket door is a sliding door that’s concealed in a cavity – the pocket – in the wall when it’s open. To fit one a new stud wall can be constructed with the pocket door frame inside the recess. Alternatively, the pocket can be created by putting up a false stud wall alongside an existing wall, thus making space for the frame.

Pocket doors can be used singly, sliding into one wall, or for a wide opening, you can use double doors, which slide to either side of the opening.

Solid doors or glass doors can be used in pocket door frames, providing the option of entirely closing rooms from one another or allowing light through when the doors are closed as well as open.

Are pocket doors a good idea?

Pocket doors are a very good idea in certain scenarios. ‘Pocket doors are best used when you have a door that wants to live in the open position, but with the door leaf out of the way,’ explains Robert Rhodes, director of Robert Rhodes Architecture + Interiors. ‘As such, I think they work well for situations where two rooms are very open to each other, as you’d want the doors between the two to be open most of the time and only closed sometimes. Some examples of pocket doors like this are between interconnected reception rooms, between living rooms and dining rooms or between dressing rooms and bedrooms.’

Pocket doors can also be considered as an alternative to a hinged door when floor space is limited – for a cloakroom or an en-suite, for example. But they could also come in handy if you are struggling with how to arrange furniture in a small living room, for example, as the swing of a door doesn’t have to be accommodated.

However, there are both pros and cons and these are the factors you should consider.

Pros of pocket doors

• Sliding into the wall, they’re unobtrusive
• Bathroom fixtures along with furniture like beds or sofas could be located nearer to the room’s door
• They can bring acoustic insulation to a through room as they partition it

Cons of pocket doors

• Fitting them requires more work than fitting a hinged door
• Maintenance could be challenging because of the hidden track system. Look for a maintenance-free unit with a long guarantee
• They need to be fitted into a stud wall; for a solid wall an adjacent stud wall will be required for the pocket door
• Movement can create noise

How much does a pocket door kit cost?

A pocket door kit includes the fittings to construct the pocket and the track. As well as this you will need a door panel or panels. There are a number of standard UK door sizes and specific pocket door frames for each, so be sure to select the appropriate kit when ordering. You can expect to pay from around £170 for a kit.

Find pocket door kits at the following suppliers:

• ECLISSE: single and double pocket door systems; glass pocket doors including frame and door
• IQ Glass: glass pocket doors
• Rocket Door Frames: single and double pocket door kits
• Todd Doors: single and double pocket doors with pre-assembled cassettes

How easy is it to install a pocket door?

Installing a pocket door demands some skills but it is a project that a competent DIYer can take on. ‘Top hung preassembled pocket doors are simple to install as they generally come with a preassembled frame and track,’ says Michelle Martin, senior marketing executive at IQ Glass.

‘However, it’s important to ensure you have enough wall space to create the pocket for the door to slide into, and to check for potential obstacles like plumbing or wiring within the wall before installation.’

Alternatively, call in a builder or joiner, who can install the door for you.

FAQs

Can you put a pocket door in any wall?

We noted above that a pocket door needs to be fitted into a stud wall, but there are other possible complications in the form of sockets, switches and so on.

‘While it is possible to install internal pocket doors even if there is a radiator or plug in the wall, it will require careful planning and likely modifications to accommodate these features,’ says Michelle Martin. ‘The pocket door mechanism needs space within the wall cavity where the radiator or electrical wiring might be located so it’s advisable to seek a construction professional in certain circumstances.’

What are the space-saving alternatives to a pocket door?

As pocket doors present the complication of creating the wall pocket, you might consider surface-mounted sliding doors as an alternative. As with pocket doors, you’ll still need sufficient wall space beside the opening to accommodate the door plus you’ll have to avoid areas where there are already radiators, switches and sockets.

Some sliding door designs make a feature of their mechanisms, and can also be DIY installed. Barn-style sliding doors can suit rustic interiors as well as more contemporary rooms depending on the door style selected, or opt for industrial-look sliding doors for a sleek finish.

And there are also sliding doors with unobtrusive mechanisms that make them closer in style to a pocket door – although, unlike with pocket doors, the door will be on show when open.

If you're looking for more ways to make the most of a compact home, these clever storage ideas for small spaces can help.

There are plenty of things to look forward to as winter approaches. Cosy evening snuggled up with a box set on the sofa. Plenty of good excuses to mainline hot chocolate. The arrival of a certain Father Christmas. But there is a dark side, and that's feeling cut off from the great outdoors.

Sure, you might not miss having to get up at the crack of dawn to water the plants. But if access to your garden is via a side door and it's cold or rainy outside, you might soon crave a better view of your little patch of greenery, or even a glance at the tree tops.

Similarly, if you already have an extension, the arrival of winter and gloomy weather might expose its shortcomings. Perhaps it's not the light, bright space you thought it would be.

That's where a little extra glazing can help. VELUX roof windows mean lighter, brighter extensions. Naturally.

VELUX says, 'It's the outside. Now available inside'. And if you check out the ideas below, you'll see exactly what that means.

1. Approach from all angles

Including VELUX windows angled in different directions can introduce light where you need it the most. Maybe that's over a kitchen countertop, so you can see exactly what you're doing when you are wielding a knife to prep vegetables, or decorating that special birthday cake. And perhaps that's also over a dining table, so Sunday lunches are even sunnier affairs.

In a busy kitchen, VELUX windows can provide precious ventilation for when things get a little steamy or smoky. The white polyurethane roof windows are also maintenance-free due to their moisture-resistant casing, so they’re ideal for humid rooms like kitchens... or indeed, bathrooms.

2. Illuminate a working corner

Did you know that we are more alert and therefore more productive when we sit next to a window? So whether you are trying to get the kids to knuckle down with homework or you're the culprit and you need a dedicated spot for catching up with paperwork or working on that first novel, VELUX can help.

Here, a roof window sheds extra light into a study corner. It's an idea that would work equally well in a loft conversion. A grades, publishing deals and balanced books here we come!

3. Light up the dark

Can you see there at the back? Open-plan living has many benefits, but it you aren't opening up a house through from front to back, you might be concerned that the space furthest from your extension's windows will seem dark and uninviting.

It's a valid concern, but one that's easily resolved with a pitched roof fitted with VELUX roof windows that are angled towards the gloomiest parts of the room.

In fact, a study has shown that VELUX's sloping roof windows can bring in twice as much daylight** as vertical windows of the same size, making both your original space and your extension feel so much brighter by allowing daylight to reach deep into your home.

**Johnsen et al, 2006

4. Make a basement bright

A skylight can totally transform a basement extension, where it might not be possible to accommodate floor-to-ceiling windows. A VELUX flat glass roof light enhances the connection to the garden and will make the space feel bigger. That's all important, particularly where you may have sacrificed a significant part of the garden to gain that extra living space.

The view, like the sky, will change as the day goes on. You will feel immersed in sunsets and can enjoy the tranquility of a rain shower drumming lightly above without getting wet.

You don't even need to worry about appearance of your VELUX roof windows after inclement weather as the glass has a special coating to ensure it will clean up easily and smear-free.

If you're looking to bring your extension to life with light, search VELUX extensions.

Metal windows and doors can be a great way to update your home, whether you are looking for something to suit a contemporary home or to maintain the style of a period property.

When it comes to replacement windows, you might be weighing up a few different types of window to see which suits your property and your budget the best. Metal windows are increasingly popular and can suit a variety of projects, but they need careful thought to make sure they are the right fit.

We've spoken to metal window experts to create this ultimate guide, covering everything from the different materials you can get and how much they cost, through to the pros and cons and ultimately, whether they are a good solution for your home.

What types of metal windows can you get?

Metal windows tend to be made using steel or aluminium, but composite versions are also available that have the metal frame externally and a wooden frame internally.

Metal window frames are available in a variety of colours (and you may even get them colour matched to suit your home exactly), but grey and black frames tend to be the most popular.

You might hear black steel windows in particular referred to as Crittall windows. Legally however, this term should only be applied to windows made by the company Crittall Windows.

While the focus of this article may be on windows in particular, metal-framed glazing also extends to patio doors and roof windows as well as internal solutions, like fixed partitions and screens.

Are metal windows a good idea?

In the past metal windows may have earned a bit of a bad reputation, but manufacturing advancements mean they can be a really good idea for your home, as Russell Ager, MD of Crittall Windows, explains: 'Unfortunately, more often than not, metal windows aren’t considered a viable option for homeowners because historic issues with their performance continue to have a strong influence. However, modern steel windows are worlds away from those that were manufactured decades ago.'

'For instance, while there’s a misconception that metal windows can’t keep homes well insulated, this isn’t the case. In fact, steel windows, that have been made to the highest standard, achieve exceptional thermal performance that deliver the same results as uPVC alternatives.'

Tim Randolph, Director of Fabco, adds: 'Black steel windows are a great choice for windows and doors due to their unique combination of aesthetics, functionality and long-term durability. Their slender steel frames provide unmatched strength, enabling larger panes of glass and narrower sightlines, which flood spaces with natural light creating a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor areas.'

And it's worth weighing up their pros and cons before you decide either way. Thomas Oldham, Co-Founder of UK Construction Blog says: 'Metal windows are known for their long lifespan, often lasting 40 to 50 years with the right care... Plus, they offer great security and fire resistance, giving you peace of mind.'

But he warns: 'However, without thermal breaks, they can conduct heat, which can hurt energy efficiency, especially in coastal areas. Special coatings can help with corrosion, and condensation is something you’ll want to keep an eye on too.'

Ian Richardson, owner of GFD Homes, agrees: 'Metal windows also offer the benefit of being finished in countless different colours and styles, allowing extensive customisation to suit a variety off home styles. Their sleek, slim frames create a modern and sophisticated aesthetic, which is particularly appealing in contemporary homes.

If you are weighing up uPVC versus aluminium windows, Ian says: 'Additionally, metal is a very strong material, far stronger than uPVC, so much bigger panes of glass can be used without the need for bulky frames, to enable the most amount of natural light and views.'

Pros of metal windows

• Available in bespoke sizes and colours to match or complement your property
• Can suit contemporary and period homes, and are ideal for creating an industrial look
• Can be resistant to warping and rust
• Powder coated frames won't need to be repainted
• Aluminium frames are a lightweight alternative to steel
• Frames are slim, maximising views and light ingress
• Metal windows offer good fire resistance
• Frames can feature thermal breaks that prevent heat loss or gain that can affect the ambient temperature in your home.

Cons

However, there are a number of drawbacks to keep in mind, as Ian explains: 'The most notable disadvantage is the cost - metal windows tend to cost more to install than options like uPVC. Their lifespan and longevity, however, guarantee that they frequently end up being a good investment in the long run.'

• Metal windows are more expensive than uPVC
• Steel frames can be heavier than other types of windows, which can affect installation and opening
• If you live by the coast, the salty air could cause corrosion
• Without thermal breaks, they can make your home hotter in the summer and colder in the winter

How much do metal windows cost?

The amount you pay for your metal windows will depend on frame material, glass specification, size and configuration.

Amelia Gaughan, Head of Marketing at Affordable Windows Group, parent company of Decorio, adds: 'Traditional steel windows sit at the top end of the market, which is why many homeowners are turning to aluminium alternatives that offer the same aesthetic at a more accessible price point.' Metal windows are bespoke, which tends to command a higher price tag and a longer lead time too.

In terms of cost, Thomas says: 'Aluminium windows usually cost between £320 and £960, including installation, while steel windows can set you back anywhere from £800 to £3,200. For a home with 10-15 windows, you’re looking at around £6,400 to £12,000 for aluminium or £16,000 to £36,000 for steel. Prices will vary based on the specifics of your project and where you live, so it’s worth shopping around for the best deal.'

If you want frames in a bespoke colour, that may cost more too. You may also pay more if you want triple glazing, and some suppliers may charge additional fees for frames that feature specific coatings, so make sure you get quotes from multiple suppliers and make sure you are comparing like-for-like.

Are metal windows more expensive than uPVC?

Upfront costs for metal windows are usually more expensive than uPVC windows, as the materials and manufacturing process incur higher costs.

But with their long-life span and low maintenance, metal windows could last longer than uPVC alternatives, which may make them cheaper in the long run.

Do metal windows need a lot of maintenance?

In general, metal windows tend to be incredibly low maintenance, but this may depend on the manufacturing process. Frames that have been galvanised are resistant to rust, while those that have been powder coated will not need to be repainted.

But it's still important to keep an eye on them, as Thomas says: 'They’re low-maintenance, but it’s still a good idea to regularly check the weather seals to make sure everything’s holding up.'

Will metal doors and windows suit my home?

Whether metal-framed glazing will suit your home depends on a couple of different factors including your home's architectural style.

Metal windows can look particularly authentic on Victorian and Georgian style homes, maintaining the sought-after character that comes with these homes.

If you are after a much more modern aesthetic, then metal windows can also be ideal. Teamed with contemporary white render, grey metal frames can create a striking look.

But you should also take into account whereabouts you live and the climate the metal frames may be exposed to. Thomas explains: 'When picking metal windows, it’s important to consider the climate. If you're in a place with extreme temperatures, thermal breaks and good weatherstripping are definitely worth looking into.' He adds: 'If you live by the coast, marine-grade finishes are a smart choice to protect against harsh weather.'

Where to buy metal windows

• Clement Windows
• Crittall Windows
• Everest
• Fabco
• ID Systems
• IQ Glass
• Origin
• Schueco
• The Heritage Window Company
• Vufold
• You can also look for a member of the Steel Window Association

Once installed, make sure you know how to clean windows so they'll last as long as possible.

If you're thinking about replacing windows, adding an extension to your home or installing bi-fold doors, your first priority will be to find a reputable installer. It's an important job to get right - and you'll want someone who'll do the work perfectly with the minimum disruption.

Fortunately, there’s a network of professionals who pride themselves on delivering just that. It’s called Network VEKA and here’s everything you need to know to give you peace of mind that you’re choosing the very best...

What is Network VEKA?
It’s an organisation that was formed in 1996 and comprises more than 150 top-notch companies around the country who use The VEKA UK Group products. What brings them together is a shared commitment to quality, craftsmanship and service. All members are rigorously vetted before being allowed to join, ensuring that only the very best, most professional companies are accepted. What’s more, workmanship is continuously audited to maintain high standards.

What can you expect
You can go to Network VEKA’s website for expert advice to help you plan your home improvements and browse the vast range of options available. You'll get a ’white-glove’ service from highly rated window installers, who offer a huge range of energy-efficient and state-of-the-art uPVC windows that will add both style and value to your home. Choose from casement windows, vertical sliders, French doors and much more. Network VEKA places aesthetics and performance at the forefront of its products, which are all available in a variety of different colour options and beautiful woodgrains.

With Network VEKA, you’ll get quality, expertise and experts who pay attention to every little detail.

Best of all, you’ll return to find your home in a neater, cleaner state then when you left it. From sweeping up the last few specks of dust to repositioning all your vases and home accessories, Network VEKA installers pride themselves on leaving every home spotless. It’s what they like to call Networkmanship, which sounds good to us!

You won't find better
With 270,000 successfully completed projects, a white-glove service and an unrivalled knowledge of the window industry, Network VEKA is a homeowner’s dream. So start planning those new energy-efficient Bi-folds, French doors or long-awaited conservatory and rest assured you can rely on its unique Networkmanship for expert advice, professional installation and the bonus of absolutely no mess!

For more information and to find your local window installer, go to www.networkveka.co.uk

Bifold doors are a popular choice for homeowners wanting to improve the connection with, and view of, their garden, while adding some wow-factor to their indoor space.

But choosing the right patio doors for your home can be a big decision, and you'll need to weigh up the pros and cons between bifold and sliding doors, and consider French doors too before you make your final choice.

Here, we are diving deep into the world of bifold doors to explain how you know if they'll suit your home, as well as how much they'll cost, and what the experts say you should consider before you buy. We'll also look at the pros and cons to help you decide if bifold doors are the best fit for you home.

Are bifold doors the right choice for your home?

Before you get your heart set on bifold doors, you need to make sure they suit your property. But the good news is, thanks to the range of frame colour options, they can be a fitting addition to a broad scope of properties.

For contemporary properties where the ultimate indoor outdoor space is hugely desirable, bifold doors with a modern grey aluminium frame can look super stylish, especially when combined with a crisp white rendered exterior.

If you're worried that this might look a little out of place on slightly older property, you could opt for timber bifold doors that may feel a little more in-keeping.

However, if you have a period property and the idea of bifold doors feels completely incongruous, then a set of French of Belgian patio doors will be a much better fit.

Make sure you research the alternatives to bifold doors before you make your final decision to ensure it's the right one for your home.

Are bifold doors a good idea?

Before settling on bifolds as your patio door of choice, you need to consider the pros and cons. If you are after uninterrupted views of your garden when the doors are closed, then its possible that sliding doors would be a better choice, as they incorporate fewer frames and larger swathes of glass.

But if you want to completely open the doors up to your garden to create the ultimate indoor outdoor space, then bifold doors could be ideal.

Pros of bifold doors

• Great for creating inside out spaces as the doors can be completely opened up
• Can help bring more natural light into your home, which can be beneficial for your physical and mental health
• Level thresholds are possible which can help with accessibility
• Range of materials and configurations available
• Suitable for small and large openings
• Can include a master door if you need to nip out to the garden but don't want to open the doors all the way

Cons of bifold doors

• Bifolds have more frames between each door panel compared to sliding doors, which may impact views and light ingress
• You'll need space to stack them to one side when open
• They might need a little maintenance to ensure smooth operation
• Level thresholds might not be as weathertight as weathered thresholds
• May not suit period properties.

How much do bifold doors cost?

How much you pay for bifold doors will depend on a few factors including material, size, and specification. Make sure you consider more than the initial price too — uPVC might be cheaper upfront but may not last as long as aluminium. If you opt for wood frames, you may have to factor in some ongoing maintenance costs to keep them looking and working their best.

Ian Richardson, owner of GFD Homes, says: 'For a standard 3-panel aluminium bifold door, prices typically start from around £1,500 to £2,000, while larger installations or premium finishes can push costs up to £5,000 or more. uPVC bifold doors offer a more budget-friendly option, starting at around £1,500, but they may not have the same durability and aesthetic appeal as aluminium or timber.'

Matt Shaw, Technical Director at Express Doors Direct, adds: 'Simple, standard models won’t break the bank, but if you’re after a truly show-stopping, custom creation, prepare to invest a bit more.'

What should you consider when choosing bifold doors?

To choose the right bifold doors for your home, there are a few decisions you'll need to make in terms of materials, glass and configuration.

Matt goes on to say: 'Think about how your new doors will blend with your home’s overall look and function. Whether you're after a modern, minimal vibe or something more traditional, make sure the doors complement your vision and meet your practical needs, especially if you’re opening up a whole wall. Will they compromise privacy? Which way do I want the doors to open? How many panels can the space comfortably accommodate? Think about how you’ll transition from indoors to outdoors and vice versa.'

Frame material

The most popular frame material options for bifold doors are uPVC, timber and aluminium, and each has their pros and cons.

Ian explains: 'Aluminium is the most popular choice for bifold doors due to its strength, slimline frames, and low-maintenance properties. Unlike timber, it won’t warp or expand with temperature changes, and it offers excellent thermal efficiency when paired with high-performance glazing. Timber bifold doors provide a natural, classic aesthetic but require more upkeep, while uPVC is a cost-effective option, though it tends to have thicker frames that reduce the glass area.'

You could also choose a composite frame, which has aluminium externally and timber internally, which will give you an ideal combination of character and performance.

Whatever you choose, make sure they come with a decent guarantee of at least 10 years.

Glazing

Your first glazing choice when choosing bifold doors will be around whether you need double or triple glazing. Triple glazing is significantly more expensive, and unless you are trying to achieve Passivhaus standards of energy efficiency, you probably don't need it if you live in the UK. But do chat with your supplier about your specific requirements so you choose the right glazing for your home.

You supplier will also be able to talk you through all the coatings and tints that are available.

Size and configuration

The dimensions of your opening will determine the number of doors – try to go for as few as possible. Fewer doors with more glass means fewer frames interrupting the views of your garden.

Matt explains: 'Size matters and bifold doors are wonderfully versatile. Typically, they’re available in openings from around 6 to 12 feet wide (that’s about 1.8 to 3.6 metres), which works brilliantly for most homes.

'But if you’ve got grand visions for a palace-like entrance or a wide-open conservatory, bespoke options mean your doors can be as expansive as you need them to be - just be sure the hardware and supporting structure is up to the task!'

Depending on your budget, you might want your bifolds to just open up along one wall, but you could also opt for two sets of bifolds than meet in a corner to really open up your space to the garden. Alternatively, combining your bifolds with a picture window on another wall can create a spectacular space.

Ensuring there is an outward opening master door in the configuration can also be incredibly handy if you regularly need access to your garden.

Security

As with any doors and windows, security is rightly a primary concern. Matt says: 'Your new doors should not only look brilliant but should also stand up against any unwanted visitors. For the ultimate in security, look for bifold doors that are Part Q compliant with sturdy multipoint locking systems that meet PAS24 standards.

'Whichever supplier you choose, ask to see the Part Q certificate for those doors advertised as such, because quality hardware and locks can be the difference between someone gaining unauthorised access to your home or not.'

Thresholds

For many homeowners, a flush or non-weathered threshold for their bifold doors is hugely desirable for creating a seamless indoor outdoor space. But while it creates a level, trip-free surface, you may find that water can seep through.

By choosing a weathered threshold that has a small lip (usually around 14mm) instead, you can ensure your doors are watertight, without to much compromise on looks. Ensure the doors also pass the weathertightness test (BS 6375 Part 1).

FAQs

What are bifold doors and how do they work?

Bifold doors (or folding sliding doors as they are sometimes known) are a type of patio door that is comprised of multiple door panels. As they open, the panels fold up in a concertina fashion and stack to one side, leaving the space fully open to the garden.

The doors move along a track which ensures smooth operation and you can opt for top hung or bottom rolling systems. Top hung systems conceal the operating mechanism in the head of the frame, but you'll need to have a strong enough lintel in place to support the weight of the doors. Bottom rolling systems hold the weight of the bifold doors at the base and can be easier to install, but you may find that leaves and other debris can accumulate in the track, which if not cleared out, can affect the operation of the doors.

Do I need planning permission to install bifold doors?

In most cases, installing bifold doors falls under Permitted Development (PD), which means you don't need to apply for planning permission. But this may not be the case if you live in a designated zone, like a Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty or a National Park.

If you live in a listed building, there might be alternative consents that you need to obtain.

Always check with your local authority to make sure you have the necessary permissions in place before you start work, as in some cases your PD rights might have been restricted or removed altogether.

Even if you don't need planning permission, you will need to adhere to the Building Regulations requirements.

Can I add blinds to bifold doors?

Privacy, light control and temperature regulation can be important considerations when choosing bifold doors. And that's where suitable window dressings come in.

Yvonne Keal, senior product manager at Hillarys, says: 'When considering bifold doors for your home, it's essential to think about the right window dressings to complement them. Properly selected blinds not only enhance the aesthetic appeal but also play a crucial role in regulating indoor temperatures.'

Make sure you opt for something sleek and unobtrusive so they don't get in the way of your garden views. You should also check that your choice of blinds is suitable for the frame material you choose for your doors.

If you want a hassle free option, then smart electric blinds could be worth considering. Yvonne adds: 'They tuck up out of the way, maintaining the sleek look of your doors, and not obstructing views into the outdoors. They can be programmed to open and close simultaneously at set times of the day, saving time in your mornings and evenings!'

Can I install bifold doors myself?

While you might be capable of fitting bifold doors yourself, we do advise you get a professional to take care of the installation for you.

Depending on where you buy your doors from, installation may be included as part of the price, and they will have experienced installers who are trained to install the mechanisms and door panels to ensure it's done properly.

Matt Shaw explains: 'A proper, professional installation is key to smooth operation, longevity, energy efficiency and even security. Poor installation can void the warranty of your doors, so it’s important to find a fitter that’s familiar with bifold doors and competent in their skills. Reputable fitters will often guarantee their work too, if they aren’t willing to do this, look elsewhere.'

Will bifold doors make the room feel cold?

Large glass expanses can feel chilly compared to a solid wall so decent thermal performance is crucial, as Matt Shaw explains: 'Look for bifold doors with excellent insulation properties and Part L compliance, such as thermally broken frames and glazing with low U values, as this will help maintain a cosy home and keep your energy bills in check.'

To comply with Part L of the Building Regulations, bifold doors must have a maximum U value of 1.8W/(m2k) for replacements, or 2.0W/(m2k) in new builds and extensions. But there’s nothing to stop you aiming lower – some suppliers bifold doors achieve lower U values as standard, and triple glazed doors could go as low as 1.3W.

If you are adding bifold doors, you'll want to make sure your outside space is looking its best. Try these patio ideas to create an attractive outdoor space to enjoy.

One of the most important decisions when designing a new extension or renovating a house is the type of doors you include. Glazed doors connect a room to the garden, and may also be used for upstairs rooms if planning and building regulations are met for issues such as overlooking neighbours and safety.

Having work done? Check out all our project planning advice.

Here are our top things to consider when choosing external doors. For further details and advice, go online to planningportal.co.uk.

1. Consider where the door is going to be

It’s important to plan ahead when fitting doors to make potentially tricky decisions about drainage and floor levels. The size and position of the door opening is a key part of the house’s plans, and any late changes may need planning approval and could be costly.

If possible, try to see your preferred doors before buying, rather than choosing from a brochure picture.

2. Decide on a style of door

Bifold doors

A popular choice for many people, bifolds are made up of a set of glazed panels and can slide or concertina, effectively opening up the entire wall of a house allowing for unrestricted access. They can open left or right, inside or outside, and even fold around corners.

It’s also possible to fit bifolds with a single door, which can then be used on its own. There will need to be space for stacking inward-opening doors and the sturdy design of bifolds means more framework and less glass is on view when the doors are shut.

Sliding doors

These tend to be made up of two or more large glass panels, opening and closing in line on a track, with one panel sliding behind the other. They offer large areas of glass but the view will be inhibited even when the doors are fully open because the frames don’t recess completely.

French doors

More traditional in design, these usually consist of two outward- or inward-opening doors, and may be fitted with fixed panes of glass either side to increase the glazed area. The frame usually creates a step, rather than the level threshold that bifolds offer.

3. Choose your frame finish

Aluminium doors

Popular for contemporary homes, aluminium frames can be supplied in virtually any colour. They’re also lightweight, strong and maintenance-free.

Composite doors

Made from a mixture of materials, composite doors are often more expensive. Those made from timber tend to be clad in a weatherproof material, for a tough, low-maintenance exterior.

Timber doors

These offer good thermal properties and a classic look. However, they’re also vulnerable to the weather, need treating and maintaining, and can be prone to warping.

Steel doors

Used in buildings since the Thirties, Crittall-style steel frames are back in fashion. They combine a slender look with the benefits of thermal performance, security, durability and easy maintenance.

UPVC doors

Good value and weather-resistant, uPVC doors don’t need painting and are easy to maintain. But it’s nigh-on impossible to alter the size of them once they’re ordered and fitted.

More inspiration: Replacement windows – everything you need to know

Hopefully this will help you to shop savvy when it comes to choosing your external doors. Enjoy the view!

January may be looking dreary but the same can't be said for our front door colour, according to leading composite door company Truedor. The door specialists together with brand ambassador George Clarke, have revealed the top 10 New Year's Colour List – and the future is bright!

'Many of us want to start the year with a positive change so why not embrace the new season colour trends for the front of your home,' says George Clarke, architect and TV's property expert. 'Try a colour that is a little bolder, perhaps more unusual, even a shade for your door that reflects your personality. You will be surprised by the lift it gives your home.'

Looking to spruce up your hallway too? 11 must-haves for happy hallways

Can you guess which hue is winning over UK homeowners?

We personally love a sunshine yellow front door to brighten up a home, but this sunny shade only made it to number six in the charts. Our money was on primarily on shades of grey, given that it's been the hottest interiors colour of recent years. It would seem that grey is out of favor, having only reached number seven in the best-sellers charts, based on recent sales.

Here's The Top 10 New Year's Colour List;

10. Duck egg blue
9. Primrose yellow
8. Cobalt blue
7. Grey
6. Bright yellow

Whilst traditional front door colours, such as black and white,  still have their place in top five, Truedor revealed it has been experiencing greater demand for bespoke shades as UK homeowners look to inject a little personality to their properties. The front door is proving to be the ideal place to try out a bold new colour, rather than carrying out a total overhaul of the interior.

5. Crisp white
4. Black
3. Light violet
2. Steel blue
1. Mid purple

We like to think we know our stuff when it's comes to colour trends, so it was highly surprising that not one of the team guessed the colour purple would prove to be the most popular shade for front doors in the UK!

Could this be the reason for purples popularity? The Pantone Colour of the Year 2018 has been announced!

Truedor offers doors in almost any shade, a world of colour possibilities for exterior and interior doors. So, whether it’s Princely Purple, Majestic Mauve or Vivid Violet, homeowners can now choose the door of their dreams. An attractive front door creates the right welcome for your guests, before they've even step foot inside.

So, will you be welcoming a purple front door for your home this year?

Windows aren't simply a practical feature of your home. When choosing the right windows for your home, we often think about glazing's power to increase natural light, which in turn helps to determine the visual appeal of your house - both in terms of kerb appeal and the interior design.

But this isn't the only thing to consider when choosing what windows to install in your property. Today, there's another design element to consider; are your windows as energy-efficient as they are attractive? But where do you start when considering the best glazing for your space? We've got a few ideas...

Building style using light

Natural light is often overlooked as a building material, despite its ability to transform a space. The type and size of windows you choose, and - if you're building or extending - where you choose to place them, can completely alter the way that a room looks and feels. Your windows can take a space anywhere from cosy and cocooning to light and airy... or even practically into the great outdoors (hello picture windows). Window styles vary from classic sash, casement and slider, to picture and roof options. Each will have a different impact on the space they are located in so, when picking windows think about what feel you're after - for example, a classic style in a period property, or a modern light-filled side-return.

If you're choosing your glazing for an extension or renovation, you can match to the style of existing windows elsewhere in your home, make a modern design statement, or go for a mix. This is not to suggest that you install a mish-mash of higgledy piggledy window frames, with a different style for each room - that would be sheer craziness - but you should certainly carefully consider what style brings the most to the building itself. Windows are an investment, after all.

As with any glass structure, ventilation and shade are important, but where windows don’t need to open, glazing can be customised to any shape or angle to fit the space and create a feature. Roof windows are the front runner when vertical windows aren’t an option - they can let in twice as much daylight and can be used along with bi-folds and vertical windows.

Glass choices

As much as the look is important, it's essential that you consider the thermal and acoustic performance, solar protection and light transmission of the glazing before you settle on your choice of windows.

Double- or triple-glazed units are a must for energy efficiency, but triple glazing is pricey, so you'll want to take your budget into account.

Glass technology is constantly evolving and improving, so it's worth checking out the developments in low-iron glass - it has increased clarity for better light transmission.

If your windows are difficult to reach (for cleaning purposes, because smudged dirty glass is never a good look), self-cleaning glass such as Pilkington Activ is useful.

For the most energy-efficient glass, look at low emissivity thermal glass options. And, if you're thinking about fitting frameless windows, you'll need structural glass for its strong, load-bearing capabilities.

Frame materials

Durable and lightweight, aluminium is a great choice if you’re after a slim frame style that holds large expanses of glazing. These metal frames can be made up in any RAL colour, meaning you can be playful if you want, but take note: they can be costly.

For a more traditional look, consider timber frames: if you're keen to enhance the thermal efficiency of your property, there are plenty of options to considers - from softwoods such as Douglas Fir, to pricier hardwoods, such as oak. Although hardwoods are more stable, both types do require regular repainting or varnishing to keep them in good condition.

Composite is increasingly popular for modern builds. Blending a timber interior with a low-maintenance aluminium cover that's designed for protection, these are a durable and long-lasting window frame style.

If you’re after a more budget-friendly option, uPVC remains a good option; not only is it affordable, it's low maintenance too. While it’s chunkier than other materials, frames do now come in a choice of colours or wood grains and, if you're feeling environmentally conscious, recycled versions are available too.

Borrowed light

Lighting spaces below ground level - dug-out gardens or converted basements, for instance - isn't always the easiest thing to do. However, rooms with little or no natural daylight, such as bathrooms or basements, can really benefit from a sun pipe. Also known as sun tunnels, these smart lighting solutions brighten dark and enclosed spaces by capturing daylight at roof level, and diverting it down a reflective pipe to a ceiling diffuser fitted in the room below.

Maximise the impact of this additional light source with a design such as Velux’s Sun Tunnel, from £318 - it has a double-layer diffuser and Edge Glow technology, to spread light evenly so that it illuminates the whole room!

Innovative rooflights

In attic- or loft-conversions, and in regular ground-floor extensions, glazing is a major consideration. While vertical windows provide great views, it’s roof lights, roof windows and skylights that flood interiors with the best-quality natural light, so today’s energy-efficient windows (with their power to increase natural light) are really worth investigating.

There are several types of these windows to consider, including opening and fixed, flush-fitting for flat or pitched roofs, and raised lantern or pyramid styles – both in standard sizes or bespoke. Picking up on the trend for glass roofs, side extensions can still benefit if you're clever with the use of multi-panel or modular skylights.

For loft conversions, break away from standard roof windows and add wow with the innovative Velux Cabrio  , from £2,417 for a window (H252cm x W94cm). The upper section opens up and outwards for extra headroom, while the lower part unfolds into a glazed balcony and railings.

Do your teenagers always forget their front door key but seem to remember their mobile phone or maybe you've experienced the frustrations of locking yourself out of the house more than once? Well, Everest thinks they have the answer by throwing away the door key as we know it altogether.

Thinking about a door? Everything you need to know about external doors

The Everest SmartLock from Yale is a new keyless gadget fitted to the handle which has four different options for unlocking your doors – a mobile app which you download, a phone tag which you stick on the back of your mobile phone, keycard like you use in a hotel or a keytag like some fancy new car models use.  Up to 50 tags and cards can be paired with each SmartLock - so no more trips to the key-cutter as you can send a virtual key remotely to the cleaner, dog-walker or neighbour via smartphone.

Its technical lock name is the Yale Conexis L1, which works simply by pulling the door closed and lifting the handle, using a multipoint locking system. It plays a short tune to confirm when it is locked and it even has a tamper alarm for added security.

Ding dong: Is this little doorbell the future of home security?

Everest’s Marketing Director, Martin Troughton, said: “Good home security is fundamental to our sense of well-being and is something that we at Everest take very seriously. We’re constantly testing our doors and windows to ensure they exceed the standards set by the industry and the Police, as well as looking for ways in which we can make improvements."

At present the system is only available when you purchase a new Everest composite door as an optional extra for £176 and comes fully installed with a 2 year guarantee. Then you need to download the Conexis L1 app from the iOS App Store or Google Play and hey presto no more hiding spare keys under door mats or plant pots - thank goodness.

Visit Everest Smartlock for more information.

First impressions are everything: What does the colour of your front door say about you?

Just make sure you send a virtual key to Santa's iphone at Christmas!

Image credits: Everest

Welcome to our step-by-step guide on how to install interiors doors. While it's not the simplest DIY task you can take on, it's easier than you might think, and you could potentially save hundreds of pounds by doing it yourself.

New doors can be a real game-changer in updating your home, completely changing its look and feel – especially if you use glazed or part-glazed doors to let light flow around. Read on, and discover everything you need to know to get the job done properly.

Read more: Sliding doors – everything you need to know

How to install interior doors – the tools you'll need

• Door wedges
• Tape measure/ruler
• Pencil
• Plane
• Workbench
• Tenon, panel or circular saw
• Hinges
• Sharp chisel
• Hinge screws
• Screwdriver

Modern doors rarely work well in older properties and period doors aren’t suited to modern homes, so match the style of your doors to the age of your home. If you live in a contemporary house, flush products offer a sleek minimal finish, whereas panelled doors give greater depth and a more traditional feel. You might even find doors with a design that matches the interior mouldings of your period home at a salvage yard, or try eBay or websites like Freecycle, or even skips!

Oak continues to be extremely popular and can be matched with furnishing and flooring. Wood veneer doors have seen a resurgence in popularity recently, are more affordable and available in a range of finishes. Moulded or primed timber doors will give you a vast range of colours to choose from.

Internal glazing is a great way to bring light into dark rooms without sacrificing warmth or sound insulation. With frosted glass you can maintain privacy in rooms such as the bathroom.

If you’re reusing old doors, remove the old paint with paint stripper and a heat gun, or use a professional dip-and-strip services (prices start from around £25 per door).

In the mood for painting? Read: How to paint a fence

Prop the door against the frame, so you can mark it for trimming to the correct size.

Prop the door against the frame, so you can mark it for trimming to the correct size.

Shave off any small amounts of wood with a plane. If you need to remove more than 5mm, lay the door on a workbench and saw off most of the excess wood, then finish off with the plane.

When you’re happy with the size, plane a slight slope on the edges of both door stiles (the vertical strips down the sides of the door) towards the doorstop (the narrow strip of wood sticking out from the frame that prevents the door from swinging open).

Get someone to hold the door up to the frame. Mark the hinge recesses on the door.

Position the hinges on the door, mark around them and use the chisel to create the recesses. If you need to make the frame recesses bigger, again use the chisel. Use one screw per hinge to fix the hinges to the door and then the door to the frame (the screws mustn’t stick out). When the door opens and closes smoothly, drive in the rest of the screws.

Or, if you’re using unfinished wooden doors and want to leave them unpainted, fill gaps with flexible filler in a matching colour before sanding and waxing for a beautiful finish.

You should fit a fire door anywhere a fire is likely to start, such as the kitchen or living room with a fireplace.

• Building regs state that fire doors should be installed if you are undertaking an attic conversion, to provide safe corridor from the loft to outside the building.
• Fire doors come in standard 44m or 45mm thicknesses.
• They are rated to determine how long they can withstand heat and flames. FD30 doors offer 30 minutes protection and FD60 doors offer 60 minutes protection.
• You should only buy fire doors that are accredited by professional bodies, such as the British Woodworking Federation's BW-CERTFIRE scheme.

Done with doors? Check out How to pick the perfect windows

Revamping your interior doors is a sure way to add appeal and value to your property, so we hope we've convinced you to take on the task. Good luck!

Taking place on Saturday September 19 and Sunday September 20, the annual Open House Weekendreturns to London, giving people the chance to go behind the doors of some of the capital's most renowned buildings and celebrating their design.

With private homes, government buildings and historic sites across 30 London boroughs throwing open their doors, it's time for some serious snooping.

Here's where to go ...

BedZED

Completed in 2002, BedZED is the UK's first large-scale mixed use eco-village and sustainable community. Developed in partnership with Peabody Trust and Bioregional, this South London spot promotes One Planet Living across the world.

Where: 24 Helios Road, SM6 7BZ
When: Saturday 10am-1pm. Guided tours on the hour

Temple Inns of Court and Temple Church

Get an insight into the workings and architecture of the Temple over the last 800 years through interactive tours, family events, and on-site activities, including a mock trial. Explore the neo-Georgian Inner Temple, which was built after the bombings in 1941, the beautiful Elizabeth Middle Temple, built in 1562 and featuring noteworthy paintings and a library, and the Temple Church, refurbished by Sir Christopher Wren in the seventeenth century, where a Magna Carta exhibition will be held to mark the anniversary of its sealing.

Where: Middle Temple Lane EC4Y 9BT
When: Saturday and Sunday 10am-5pm

10 Downing Street

Residence of British Prime Ministers since 1735, take a look behind the black door to see the rooms that have witnessed events that have shaped our nation.

Where: 10 Downing Street SW1A 2AA
When: Saturday 11am - 3pm, by ballot at open-city-engage.org.uk

15 and a half Consort Road

As seen on Grand Designs, this innovative house uses sustainable features and clever design to solve the constraints of building on an "unusable" brownfield site and working to a tight budget.

Where: 15 and a half Consort Road, SE15 2PH
When: Saturday 10am-5pm

155 Holland Park Avenue

Each room in this Victorian flat is a play on a different style - Gothic, Renaissance Baroque, Roccoco, Victorian, Regency and Modern. To be enjoyed as a dreamlike escape from the outside world.

Where: 155 Holland Park Avenue, W11 4UX
When: Saturday and Sunday10am - 5pm. Tours every 30 minutes, pre-book only on 020 7602 2489

Tin House

Maximising the irregular urban space, this house and its calm private courtyard is made up of interconnecting top-lit pavilions.

Where: 2 Smugglers Yard, Devonport Road, W12 8PB
When: Saturday 10am-1pm

The Darke House

Designed by celebrated architect Geoffrey Darke, its Grade II listing describes the house as "the country's finest example of a modernist house in a Georgian setting." Most of the original features and fittings remain.

Where: 25 Montpellier Row, TW1 2NQ
When: Sunday 10am - 5pm

The Pavilion

This modern house, which neighbours a Grade II listed pagoda in the Blackheath Conservation Area, has won numerous awards. Fully automated, expect to see open plan living with plenty of natural light and verdant gardens.

Where: Pagoda Gardens, Blackheat, SE3 0UZ
When: Saturday 10am - 5pm

Spiral House

A single storey house conceived as one wall, which wraps the boundary and then spirals into the site's centre to create a habitable space.

Where: 19b Culberden Road, SW12 9LT
When: Sunday 10am - 1pm

Courtyard House

This RIBA London award-winning house was designed by Dallas Pierce Quintero and based around four courtyards. The black timber-frame exterior gives way to a light open-plan interior with exposed ceiling joists.

Where: 2a Macdonald Road, E7 0HE
When: Saturday 10am - 5pm. Pre-book only on dpq.eventbrite.co.uk

18 Stafford Terrace

From 1875, this was the home of the Punch cartoonish Edward Linley Sambourned and his family. The house is now recognised as the best surviving example of a late Victoria middle-class home in the UK, complete with its original interior decoration and contents.

Where: 18 Stafford Terrace W8 7BH
When: Saturday 10am-5pm

Yellow

The colour of sunshine, yellow is known to bring about warm and happy thoughts. A yellow front door suggests the homeowners are friendly and welcoming - the perfect hosts!

Blue


Associated with peace and tranquility, a blue front door suggests a relaxed, easy-going family lives behind it.

Green


Green generates feelings of safety, suggesting a harmonious home environment.

Red

There's no doubt about it, a bright red front door is hard to miss! A perfect choice for homeowners looking to standout from the crowd.

Black


A timeless colour choice, black doors are chosen by individuals with a strong sense of style.

Purple


In the practice of feng shui, purple is the only colour that can be placed in any direction; a preference for it indicates open-mindedness.

Feeling inspired?

Here are four important things to keep in mind before wielding the paintbrush:

1 Choose a shade that complements the other tones and materials present on your home's exterior. If you've got other painted items such as shutters or postboxes, it's a good idea to coordinate with those.

2 Colours tend to fade outside, so the bolder the better when it comes to exterior paint. Test samples in different lights to see how they change throughout the day.

3 Take the style of your door into account. Before rushing into anything, step back and take a proper look at your door, along with the accessories and trim that frame it. Adding a stately shade can make a simple cottage-style door look more sophisticated, while a casual hue can give a formal façade a friendlier feel.

Like this? For more inspiration visit the Country Homes & Interiors homepage.

WHAT ARE THE OPTIONS?
Popular from the 1860s to the 1930s, as a regular feature o n front doors and stairwell windows, stained glass has recently undergone a revival. Featuring traditional motifs, such as flora and fauna, as well as abstract designs, stained windows, also known as leaded lights, can be patterned, textured or bevelled and are used to diffuse light in the home while being a decorative object in their own right. Current trends have seen stained glass appear in more unusual domestic settings, such as internal doors and windows, roof lights or even as part of a feature wall. Simple, transparent leaded designs (where the panes of glass are supported by lead cames) and crisp geometrics can suit modern interiors. If you are keen to commission your own, start by considering the age of your home. Art-Deco styles suit 1930s interiors, while decorative fanlights and door panels complement Victorian and Edwardian homes. A reputable stained glass specialist can suggest a bespoke design or help you create your own.

RESTORING STAINED GLASS AND LEADED LIGHTS 

Individual glass breaks can sometimes be repaired in situ, but when there are too many, or the structure of the lead is weak or bowing, the panel will need to be removed. A specialist can strip it of its lead structure and re-build the pane, using the same width and profile of the original lead came, reusing the old glass where intact and replacing breaks with the nearest possible match. Broken paintings can be copied and kilned in the same way that they were originally created. Expect the lead structure of a typical door panel to have a life span of around 30-40 years between re-builds.

PROFESSIONAL ADVICE

• ‘Internal doors and areas of borrowed light require a more subtle design. Even a modest option consisting of a double border and a rectangle grid can be subtly decorative.
• Think about the amount of light available. If there is plenty, complex designs and strong colours can work well. Simpler designs, lighter colours and subtle textures will help maximise the amount of light coming into the room.
• Opting for traditional or a more modern design is a matter of the age of your home as well as personal taste. If the property is Victorian or Edwardian, it's a good idea to retain the original front entrance design or re-instate a sympathetic style if the original panes no longer exist.
• Resist the temptation to opt for too personal a design at your property's entrance, as it may affect future salability of your home. Personal designs suit smaller, more discreet windows better.
• Stained glass windows can be surprisingly affordable. For example, two Victorian geometric door panels will cost around £400 upwards.'

For more inspiration, visit 25 Beautiful Homes

I'd like a beautiful oak porch for our country home. Any ideas?

This handmade green oak porch from Border Oak is available as a self-build kit and can be added to an existing building. The oak will weather over time to a silvery grey, and there is enough room to store logs and wellies. You can maximise kerb appeal by growing climbers over the frame.

Can you help me find a traditional steel door canopy?
Inspired by original architectural features, this solid steel canopy from Garden Requisites is a stylish alternative to wood. The steel is zinc galvanised for a rust-resistant finish and then painted, aged or left plain. To make it watertight, run a bead of roofing sealant along the top edge or fit traditional lead flashing.

Which style of front door is suitable for my village home?
Choose one that creates a welcoming focal point and complements the style and age of your house. Security is a priority and this door from Clifton Joinery has a shoot-bolt locking system that combines a modern mechanism with a traditional handle. The door is made from an insulated panel, faced with solid hardwood and grooved, to keep heat in and noise out.

Is a flat matt paint finish suitable for exterior woodwork?
A flat finish absorbs light, helping to hide small imperfections, and is extremely hardwearing. When decorating outside, you can opt for a shade or two darker (this is Beaufort Gardens No 212 by Mylands) as exterior colours are viewed in daylight. Remember to apply a coat of wood primer and undercoat first.

Where can I find a traditional door and door furniture?
A specialist company can produce a new door to look like an original. Voysey & Jones' Vintage Laboratory service, available to customers purchasing a new front door, ages shiny new door furniture, giving it a warm, vintage patina with verdigris highlights to match the authentic look of the front door.

What sort of classic door knocker would suit our cottage?
A simple hand-forged ring knocker, popular in the 18th and 19th centuries, will suit both panelled and plank doors. Made from steel, this Clayton Munroe knocker has a textured appearance and comes in several finishes including Black, Patine and Graphite. When fitting, try to create symmetry between the knocker and other hardware features, such as the letterplate and escutcheon.

Find more inspiration for your country home at Country Homes & Interiors.

******

ALAN HEAVISIDES
Osmond Flatts, Lartington, Barnard Castle, County Durham DL12 9DG, www.alanheavisides.co.uk
Based in Teesdale but willing to travel anywhere in the UK, Alan Heavisides has a large, fully equipped workshop that makes and renovates traditional box sash windows that are double-glazed to meet modern building regulations. By retaining a 22mm-wide glazing bar, the company ensures its windows always look proportional and traditional. All windows are made to order within four to six weeks, if possible, and the company employs an in-house fitting team.

AYRTON WINDOWS & DOORS
406/408 Merton Road, London SW18 5AD, www.ayrtonwindows.com
As well as offering a wide range of bespoke sashes within London and the home counties, this company will design and construct one-off sash windows. Georgian bars, double or single glazing and curved or arched designs are all catered for. Once approved, windows are delivered in eight to ten weeks. Glass options include obscure, toughened, cool glass and acoustic. FENSA-registered installation is available. (FENSA, the Fenestration Self-Assessment Scheme, means companies can certify their windows comply with building regulations.)

CHURCH & GOODERHAM
Unit 30, Yew Tree Courtyard, Earl Soham, Woodbridge, Suffolk IP13 7SG, www.churchandgooderham.co.uk
This company was recently established by carpenters Marcus Church and Stuart Gooderham, who combine more than 30 years’ experience in traditional bespoke joinery. Specialising particularly in sash windows, they reproduce the mouldings and detailed characteristics of timber windows using traditional woodworking methods, to recreate authentic replacement sash windows. They also offer a renovation service and will travel nationwide.

CONSERVATION JOINERY
Unit 4c, Cockshades Farm, Stock Lane, Nantwich, Cheshire CW5 7HA, www.conservationjoinery.co.uk
Specialising in the refurbishment of sash windows on-site, this company has a team of craftspeople on the road, as well as a window workshop for major renovation projects and bespoke reproductions. It can also supply and fit faithful single-glazed reproduction sash windows. Operating in Cheshire, North Staffordshire, Shropshire and surrounding areas, it has recently opened a branch in Llandudno to cover North Wales.

MUMFORD & WOOD
Tower Business Park, Kelvedon Road, Tiptree, Essex CO5 0LX, www.mumfordwood.com
Mumford & Wood produces single- and double-glazed wooden spring and box sash windows that conform to modern building and environmental standards. The sash windows are made from sustainably sourced laminated larch, giving an almost knot-free surface and superior stability. Installation is included.

THE ORIGINAL BOX SASH WINDOWS COMPANY
29/30 The Arches, Alma Road, Windsor, Berkshire SL4 1QZ, www.boxsash.com
This company has patented designs for creating new sash windows that meet modern regulations, including its unique sealed glass units, which, coupled with slim timber glazing bars, reduce the visual impact of double-glazed glass in a period home. The company offers installation throughout the South-east.

REFURB-A-SASH
Queens Joinery, Queens Road, Twickenham, Middlesex TW1 4LJ, www.refurbasash.co.uk
This FENSA-registered company hand-builds traditional cord- and weight-operated sash windows. Specialising in conservation projects, it has 15 years’ experience of working on heritage properties. It also has sound eco-credentials and recently won the Green Guardian Award for helping to reduce the Royal Borough of Richmond’s carbon footprint.

THE SASH WINDOW WORKSHOP
Unit 4, Kiln Lane, Bracknell, Berkshire RG12 1NA, www.sashwindow.com
Replacing or restoring thousands of windows every year, this FENSA-registered company will also draught-seal existing sash windows to reduce rattling and improve insulation. Each window is bespoke and comes with a 20-year warranty. A free no-obligation survey is also available.

SPECIALISED JOINERY
Unit 4, Clarkes Industrial Estate, Sutton Coldfield, West Midlands B73 5TS, www.specialisedjoinery.com
This family firm is always incredibly busy, so you may need to wait between eight and 12 weeks for your windows, but its work is highly recommended. Choose from good-quality softwoods, or hardwoods such as mahogany and oak, all of which are from renewable sources. Features include single or double glazing, locking catchments, draughtproofing and the option of sash stops, which restrict opening for child safety. Windows are finished with a wood preserver and primer, ready to be painted on-site.

WILLOWSIDE JOINERY
Bishopsland Farm, Dunsden, Reading, Berkshire RG4 9NR, www.willowsidejoinery.com
Willowside Joinery provides an installation service covering London, the home counties, Hampshire and Oxfordshire, and a “supply-only” service nationwide. It specialises in listed buildings and properties within conservation areas, and can create replicas of originals, guaranteed to impress your planning officer. All sash windows are hardwood and installed with a ten-year guarantee. The company also offers draught-sealing and full renovation services.

See more great buyers’ guides.