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How To Correctly Remove A Sliding Glass Door

13

Aug
2024
Posted By : Rachel Bownds 0 Comment
how to correctly remove a sliding glass door
Categories :Doors
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Removing sliding glass doors can seem like a difficult task however, with the right tools it is possible to do this yourself. In this guide, we will look at how to remove sliding patio doors yourself, safely and efficiently, including what tools you will need, the removal process you need to follow, and how to remove the sliding panel safely.

How to Remove Sliding Patio Door From Its Track

Locate the Locking Mechanism

The locking mechanism on the sliding door panel is usually found along the edge where the door meets the door frame. To disengage it, simply turn the handle or latch to the unlocked position. If your door has additional security features, like a foot lock or security bar, lift or remove these as well. Once everything is unlocked, the door is ready to slide open for removal.

Lifting the Door

To safely remove a sliding glass door, start by slightly lifting the door within its frame. To do this, insert a flat prying bar or flathead screwdriver under the door to gently raise it. This will help release the rollers from the track. As you lift, have a helper nearby to support the door’s weight. They should hold the door steady to prevent it from tipping or falling, making this straightforward job safer and more manageable.

Removing the Bottom Rollers

Disengaging the bottom rollers of the sliding door from the track depends on the design of your sliding doors. With most sliding doors, you will need to lift the glass door slightly and angle the bottom of the door outward to release the rollers from the bottom track.

For some doors, you may need to adjust the roller height using the adjustment screws located on the side of the door near the bottom. Turn these screws counterclockwise lowers the rollers, making it easier to lift the door out of the track.

As you work, be careful not to force the door out, as this could damage the rollers or track. Use a gentle, steady motion to avoid bending or breaking any components. With the rollers disengaged, the door should lift out smoothly.

Tilting and Removing the Door

Lift the stationary door out of the top track smoothly and lay it down on a cushioned surface, like a blanket or foam pad, to protect the glass and frame from damage. The door will have been safely removed.

Additional Tips

  1. A glass sliding door can be very heavy and is a difficult job to do alone. For safety reasons, ask someone to help you remove sliding glass doors.
  2. Before you begin, make sure that the area surrounding the sliding door is free of clutter and anything that could be a trip hazard.
  3. Ensure that you have foam sheets or a blanket to lay the patio door on to.
  4. Have safety glasses to hand and wear these to protect your eyes.

Conclusion

Removing a sliding patio door is straightforward when done carefully. Start by taking safety precautions, then unlock the door and disengage any security features. Lift the door to release the bottom rollers, tilt it inward, and lift it out of the top track. Finally, set it down gently on a cushioned surface.

If you need more support or advice, don’t hesitate to contact Cosyhomes Windows for professional guidance.

How To Clean And Maintain UPVC Doors

29

Apr
2024
Posted By : Rachel Bownds 0 Comment
how to clean and maintain upvc doors
Categories :Doors
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UPVC doors are fairly low maintenance, which adds to their popularity. However, some regular maintenance and cleaning can ensure they stay in excellent condition.

In this article, we’re going to look at the best way to clean UPVC windows and doors, as well as the materials you will need to keep them looking their best.

Gathering Cleaning Supplies

Before you start cleaning UPVC windows and doors, let’s look at some of the supplies you will need:

  • Warm soapy water (with mild dishwashing soap added). Make sure you use clean water.
  • Soft cloths – a microfiber cloth is best
  • Soft sponge
  • Glass cleaner for cleaning internal glass

Avoid:

  • Abrasive cleaners
  • Bleach
  • Scouring pad

An optional solution for stubborn grime is a white vinegar solution.

Cleaning Your UPVC Door

Follow our simple guide on how to clean UPVC doors, including the door frame and surface.

Preparing the Cleaning Solution:

To make your warm water solution, mix a few drops of mild washing-up liquid with the water. This is a great natural cleaning solution.

Cleaning the Door Frame and Surface:

When you have prepared your cleaning solution, it’s time to clean the UPVC frames:

  • Dip your cloth or sponge in the solution.
  • Wipe the surface to clean UPVC doors, starting at the top and moving down.
  • Focus on the corners, paying attention to areas that accumulate dirt.
  • If needed, rinse and dry with a clean cloth.

You can follow the same method when cleaning UPVC window frames.

Removing Stubborn Grime:

When cleaning UPVC doors, use equal parts white vinegar and water to eliminate stubborn grime. Apply, wait, and then wipe off. Stubborn dirt to build up over time, but regular cleaning will help prevent this.

Cleaning the UPVC Door Hardware

You can use the same warm water solution to wipe clean the door handles and hinges:

  • Dip a soft cloth in the soapy solution.
  • Gently wipe door handles and hinges with a damp cloth.
  • Use a clean cloth to dry all hardware components completely.

Maintaining UPVC Doors for Longevity

Maintaining your UPVC doors will ensure they work efficiently and remain energy-efficient for years to come.

Conclusion

Regular cleaning and maintenance of UPVC doors and windows is essential for preserving their appearance, functionality, and longevity. By keeping them clean and inspecting them for any signs of damage, you can ensure smooth operation and prevent issues like leaks or drafts.

Maintaining door and window seals and frames contributes to better insulation, improving energy efficiency. Clean and well-maintained UPVC doors and windows not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of your property but also prevent dirt and reduce mould. Overall, following a routine maintenance regime helps protect the investment in UPVC doors and windows while enhancing comfort and value.

If you require any additional advice on how to maintain your UPVC doors and windows, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us. Cosyhomes Windows also offers a range of door and window repairs and can advise you on the best course of action.

The Pros & Cons Of Bi-fold Doors Explained

15

Feb
2024
Posted By : Rachel Bownds 0 Comment
The Pros & Cons Of Bifold Doors Explained
Categories :Doors
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Bi-fold doors are very popular, particularly as patio doors, as they are a great way to connect the interior of your home with your outdoor space. In this article, we’ll look at the pros and cons of bi-fold doors so that you can make an informed decision if this is something you are considering for your home.

PROS of bi-fold doors

Expansive Openings: Bi-fold doors are sliding doors that create a wider opening than a standard door. They are great when entertaining in the summer months as they allow an unobstructed view of your exterior and free flow between spaces.

  • Maximised Light: Double-glazed bi-fold doors are thermally efficient and fill your space with lots of natural light.
  • Space Optimisation: Bi-fold doors are a great space-saving option. They slide to one side, blurring the lines between the inside and outside of your home, unlike traditional patio doors.
  • Aesthetic Appeal: A bi-fold door is a popular and modern choice for external doors leading to your garden area and is also great for internal living rooms.
  • Closet Delights: Bi-fold doors can also be used inside your home. These folding doors are a great option for tight storage spaces or wardrobes as they maximise accessibility.
  • Interior Elegance: A bi-fold door is a great way to separate rooms when needed, such as a kitchen and living room while maintaining an open plan feel.
  • Versatility: There are many different materials and styles available for bi-fold doors, so it’s easy to match your home decor and living needs.

CONS of bi-fold doors

  • Security Concerns: It could be argued that a bi-fold door is a security concern, due to the high number of glass panels compared to other doors and its sliding door system, that could be lifted from its tracks. While older doors may be vulnerable, newer bi-fold doors have multiple locking points and strong glass.
  • Cost Factor: Bi-fold doors can be more expensive than other doors and it’s worth consulting a few companies before settling on one to install them. It’s a personal choice, but many believe that the benefits outweigh the cost.
  • Weather Vulnerability: Bi-fold doors can be vulnerable to weather-related problems, such as water infiltration, reduced wind resistance, and material degradation over time. However, with regular maintenance, this should not be a problem.
  • Privacy Concerns: Although sliding doors can let in a lot of natural light, they can also require window treatments for privacy if used in areas such as bedrooms or bathrooms.
  • Sound Transmission: Noise can travel easily through doors, impacting room separation. However double glazing can reduce this.
  • Installation Complexity: A bi-fold door needs to be installed by a professional and isn’t something you should attempt yourself.

Conclusion:

Installing bi-fold doors is a great idea for tight spaces in your home, such as wardrobes or cupboards. It is also excellent for bringing the outside in, which is great for entertaining especially when fully opened. They are energy efficient, low maintenance, and can potentially increase your property value.

If you want to consider installing sliding doors as part of your next building project, don’t hesitate to contact Cosyhomes Windows for expert advice.

Building Regulations For External Doors

15

Jan
2024
Posted By : Rachel Bownds 0 Comment
Building Regulations For External Doors
Categories :Doors

When thinking of replacing an exterior door, it’s important to be familiar with the building regulations for external doors. You will need to adhere to these regulations with your replacement doors, which include fire safety, energy efficiency, and accessibility.

Fire Safety Regulations for External Doors

A very important part to consider when installing new exterior doors is fire safety. If this door will be a fire safe door, it must comply with building regulations. The door must:

  • have an unobstructed area of at least 0.33m2 and at least 450mm high and wide.
  • have a step no larger than 15mm.
  • have a clear opening of 775mm.

The main purpose of a fire door is to contain a fire and stop it from spreading. If your external door is a communal door or for doors in public buildings, for example, it must be fire-rated and sufficiently robust. In your home, it’s not likely that you will need to install an external fire door. Instead, this door would be an external exit door, like your front door. However, fire doors are a good choice for safety with a new door.

If your fire safety door contains glass, it must contain safety glazing that has been specially designed to protect against fire.

Thermal Performance Regulations for External Doors

Thermal insulation is essential for energy-efficient external doors as they prevent heat transfer between the inside and outside. A material’s thermal performance is measured by something called U-values, with lower values indicating better insulation. Meeting or surpassing minimum U-value requirements for external doors is needed for energy efficiency, as it helps to reduce heat loss and ensure compliance with current building regulations.

Accessibility Regulations for External Doors

External doors need to meet current accessibility standards, including a minimum width for wheelchair access and user-friendly opening mechanisms, such as accessible handles. By being fully compliant and ensuring easy disabled access, you’re ensuring inclusivity and easy navigation for those with additional mobility needs.

Compliance and Enforcement of Building Regulations

To gain building regulations approval for external doors you must submit plans to your local authority for approval. Non-compliance may lead to a fine and even legal action, which is why it is so important to adhere to standards to avoid penalties and ensure a safe environment.

Depending on the style of the building and your new door, you may need to seek planning or building inspectors’ permission to replace exterior windows and doors. This would apply if you are replacing the door in a listed building or live in a conservation area. If neither of these apply, it’s unlikely that you will need any approved documents or a building control officer to approve your windows and doors.

Conclusion

It is vital to work with qualified and experienced professionals when replacing external doors, to ensure that you comply with building regulations. Including safety, energy efficiency, and adequate accessibility.

If you are unsure or would like more expert advice, don’t hesitate to contact Cosyhomes Windows.

How To Toe & Heel A Door Or Window

09

Nov
2023
Posted By : Rachel Bownds 0 Comment
How To Toe & Heel A Door Or Window
Categories :Doors
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A UPVC door is a high-quality door and will last for a long time. However, it’s normal for them to experience door-dropping after a period of time. Whilst one side of the door is supported on the hinge side, the lock side is not, and this is where wear and tear can occur.

A way to correct this drop is toe and heeling. This is a simple process that realigns the door and restores the correct and sustained operation of the door. This is important for energy efficiency and security.

Tools and Materials You’ll Need

To correctly toe and heel a door or window you will need:

  • a tape measure
  • stiff putty knives
  • a glazing shovel
  • packers or shims
  • clear silicone

Step-by-Step Guide to Toe and Heel Adjustment

Here is a step-by-step guide to toe and heeling doors or windows:

1. Assess the Situation

Begin by giving the door or window a closer inspection. It might be difficult to lock or a window’s sash difficult to close fully because of a misalignment in the glass unit or frame.

Start by measuring the door diagonally – measure corner to corner (top left to right bottom corner, top right to left bottom corner). Make a note of each of the measurements and check if they match. If not, your door is out of alignment.

2. Remove the beading strips

First of all, remove the beading strips that hold any glass or panels to the door, start with the longer strips. To do this, place a stiff putty knife between the beading strip and the frame. Gently work the knife as a lever until the strip breaks away.

3. Remove the glass or panels

Next, remove any glass or panels from the door looking for any packers as you do so and removing them, before reinstalling the glass into the door frame. Position them as near to the lock side of the door as possible, leaving a slight gap on the hinge side. Then, take measurements of the distance between the glass or panel and the top of the frame, as well as the distance between the glass or panel and the hinged side of the frame. Record these measurements for reference.

Using the measurements you recorded in the previous step, take two packers that are half of the total width of the measurement (e.g. for a 6mm gap, packers need to be approximately 3mm). As well as two packers that are half of the total height measurement (from the glass or panel to the top of the frame). Next, position them within the frame.

4. Insert the glazing packers

Use the clear silicone to put one of the width-based plastic packers and one of the height-based packers into the bottom left corner of the frame. Each packer should be positioned around 50mm away from the corner, further along the longer door strip. These will help to distribute the pressure evenly and you can then add the glass or panel back into the frame

The glass or panel will naturally lean a little towards the lock side of the door, but don’t worry, this can be corrected by placing the glazing shovel into the lock side and pushing the glass or panel towards the hinge side of the door. Hold this in place by adding another width-based packer to the top right corner of the frame 50mm down from the corner.

Now you will need to use the glazing shovel on the top of the lock side of the door, and work it gently to lift the frame into place, before adding the second height-based packer to the top right corner of the frame – 50mm left of the corner.

5. Test and fine-tune

Once all of your packers are in place, you will then need to check that the frame and door panels are level with each other. Then test whether the door is able to open, close and lock properly, before refitting the beading strips. If you think the door may need a re-fit, or is still not in the correct position, contact a professional for advice.

Conclusion

We hope that this article has been useful in giving you some guidance into toeing and heeling doors, if you decide to have a go yourself. If you don’t feel confident to toe and heel yourself, we’re here to help. Contact Cosyhomes Windows for help and advice.

How To Adjust A Composite Door Hinge

09

Nov
2023
Posted By : Rachel Bownds 0 Comment
How To Adjust A Composite Door Hinge
Categories :Doors
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Having a composite door that isn’t shutting properly may mean that you need to adjust the hinges. Don’t worry, it’s not difficult to do with the right tools and can be a rewarding task. In this article, look at the signs that composite door hinge adjustment is needed and a guide to help you adjust your door hinges.

Signs That Adjustment is Needed

There are some tell tale signs that show that you need to adjust a composite door to its correct position, including misaligned hinges, difficulty opening and closing the door fully, and poor energy efficiency. Good quality doors should stop draughts and keep your home secure.

Before you beginning adjusting the door hinges, you need to check whether your door is level. You can do this by placing a spirit level on top of the composite door. If it is not level, you will need to adjust the door hinges.

Step-by-Step Adjustment Guide

Adjusting the door hinges on a composite door can be a tricky but rewarding task. With the help of our guide and the right tools needed to make the adjustments, you should be able to do this yourself.

Gather the Necessary Tools

Begin by making sure that you have the tools you need to adjust the door hinges, including:

  • A screwdriver
  • A hammer
  • A level
  • A tape measure
  • An allen key – depending on the type of hinge on your door
  • A hex key – again, this will depend on the type of hinge on your door

Assessing the Situation

  • Check the gap between your door and the door frame all the way around. If there is an uneven gap, this means that it is out of alignment.
  • If the composite door isn’t functioning properly, for example the bottom of the door scrapes the floor when you open it or the door won’t lock easily, this is also a sign that there is an hinge misalignment. Making your door secure, particularly if you have a composite front door, is very important.
  • Check what type of hinge plates you have on your door. There are many different hinges including:
    • Piano Hinges – a long thin hinge that runs the entire length of the door. More common on a heavy door.
    • Ball Bearing Hinges – a hinge with a ball bearing in the middle that allows the door to swing smoothly.
    • Butt Hinges – a plain butt hinge has a pin that joins the two plates at the hinge’s knuckles. These are probably the most common type of hinges due to their reliability.

Loosening the Hinge Screws

For this part of the guide, we are going to look at how to adjust butt hinges on a composite door.

  • Turn the bottom/top screw, using your screwdriver, to get sideways movement. Pay careful attention that you don’t remove the screws entirely, as you will need to put them back in the same place later. You can now begin to adjust your composite door.
  • Adjust the butt hinge using an allen key, removing the cap on top to expose the screw.
  • If there is a grub screw in the centre of the hinge, you must loosen before you adjust the pin as it holds the pin in place.

Realigning the Door

If the misaligned door slightly catches on the top of the door frame you will need to adjust the door height. The door will need to be lowered by adjusting the bottom hinge.

  • Remove the centre covers of your hinge by hand and then, using an allen key, loosen the socket screws by about a ⅓ of a turn.
  • Next, you will need to lift and support the door to the required height whilst securing the socket screws. It’s important that you don’t forget to replace the covers.

A composite door catching on the floor means that you will need to adjust the top hinge.

  • Use an allen key at the door side of the hinge. Turn the screw 1-2 rotations clockwise. Then, test your door to see if it still drags. Continue to adjust hinges and tighten the screws until you get a smooth door that doesn’t drag.

Final checks

  • Once you have adjusted the hinges, you will need to check that the door is level again. You can check by opening the composite door slightly on the lock side, looking up and down the frame to see if the gap is consistent throughout or whether it needs more adjustment.

Conclusion

We hope you found this article useful if you need to adjust composite doors in your home. With the right tools and some guidance, this is something you can do yourself. However, if you feel that the issue with your door is not a quick fix, do contact your original supplier or contact us for assistance.

If you have another type of door that you think needs adjustment, our handy articles on patio door adjustment and bifold door adjustment can help.

uPVC vs Timber Doors: What’s The Right Choice For Your Home?

09

Nov
2023
Posted By : Rachel Bownds 0 Comment
uPVC vs Timber Doors What's The Right Choice For Your Home
Categories :Doors
Tags :  

When you’re thinking of replacing the doors in your house, homeowners have a lot to consider. Depending on the style of your property, it can be a hard choice between uPVC doors and wooden doors.

In this article, we look at uPVC doors vs timber doors, taking into consideration thermal efficiency, which is more aesthetically pleasing, and how eco friendly each one is, to help you make a final decision.

Comparison Between uPVC Doors & Wooden Doors

An important thing to consider when changing your doors is the style of your property. Solid wood doors are better suited to more traditional properties. This is, of course, personal preference, but if you live in a listed building it’s unlikely you would be able to install a uPVC door.

If your current wooden door is in good condition and it is just the glass panes that need replacing, our article; How to replace a glass pane in a wooden door will help you tackle this issue.

A uPVC door is a popular choice over a wooden door in more modern properties, particularly a uPVC front door. If you’d like to consider other options for your home, there are many different styles available. We offer French, Patio, Residential, Bi-Fold, and Composite doors in a variety of finishes, designs, glazing options, and panels.

Durability and maintenance

A solid wood door is much more durable than cheap wooden doors and can withstand seasonal elements well. They can, however, be prone to warping over time and require more maintenance, depending on the material and thickness of the door and its frame. Rainwater can seep in and cause cracking if it is not properly maintained.

UPVC doors are also very durable and can withstand harsh weather. They are very low maintenance and their material means that it won’t warp over time, lasting for many decades.

Energy efficiency

UPVC is very energy efficient and thermally efficient, helping homeowners to save money on energy bills. Wood is also a good insulator and timber frames can offer good energy efficiency.

Security features for each

How secure a door is depends, not only on its materials but also on the quality of the lock and the frame. If treated properly and maintained, a wooden door can offer excellent security.

UPVC doors also offer excellent security and are widely used for front doors. All of our doors have multi-point locks, are steel reinforced, fully welded, and internally glazed. Being internally glazed with toughened glass reduces the risk of burglary, as the glass unit cannot be removed outside of the building.

Aesthetics and styles

Wooden front doors can look elegant and stylish. They can be styled to suit your preference, come in different colours and different styles, or you can paint them to suit your desired look, and wood is a natural product.

UPVC doors are more limited in terms of styles and colours however, they are very durable and also environmentally friendly.

Conclusion

Making a decision between timber doors vs uPVC doors come down to many factors. Including the style and age of your property, whether you are making a decision for an exterior door or interior door, and your preference in terms of door design.

We hope that this article gives you more of an insight into the different materials and for more advice, we’d be happy to talk you through the options that we have available. Get in touch for expert advice today.

What Does Your Front Door Colour Say About You?

16

Jul
2021
Posted By : Rachel Bownds 0 Comment
What Does Your Front Door Colour Say About You
Categories :Doors

The exterior of your home is the first thing that your guests and visitors will see. According to research conducted by Dulux Weathershield, it takes less than 10 seconds for people to make a judgement about you based on the colour of your front door!

You may not have thought much about the colour of your front door before, but first impressions count. So if you want to make a good one, why not personalise your home and reflect your personality by changing the colour of your front door? It’s a great place to start and is fairly inexpensive to do.

But which colour should you choose? Whether you go for a bright colour, a black door, or  decide to make a statement with a red coloured door, each reveals something about you.

Read on to find out more.

How To Pick A Front Door Colour

Classic Colours

If you want to make sure your colour choice won’t date, why not opt for a classic colour shade that won’t go out of style quickly.

Consider a navy blue door, which apparently could signal that you’re intelligent.

Classic red = a passionate resident – apparently a very popular choice in London.

A black front door suggests that you are a mysterious type with a great sense of style.

Brown can be beautiful in the right shade. A light brown front door can mean that you have a good heart, whilst dark brown can mean that you like to keep to yourself and are quite a private person.

Bold And Bright Colours

When you think of the colour yellow, you think happy, sunny, and joyful. If you choose a yellow front door you’re thought to be welcoming and friendly aka. great hosts!

Shades of purple have increased in popularity in recent years and they’re very Instagram friendly. If this is your shade of choice there are added benefits – in the practice of feng shui, it is the only colour that can be placed in any direction. It also signifies creativity.

Pink front door lovers are hopeless romantics, as well as nurturing and fun.

How Do I Prep My Front Door For Painting?

If you feel inspired to change the colour of your front door, you’re probably wondering where to start. Don’t worry, it’s very simple.

  1. Choose your paint colour and make sure that it is weatherproof. A DIY store can advise you if you are unsure.
  2. Whilst picking up your paint, it’s wise to think about buying a primer too to make sure your paint goes on smoothly and lasts longer.
  3. Remove your door’s metal accessories, including door handle, letterbox and knocker, if you have one.
  4. Clean your front door using soap and warm water
  5. Repair any cracks with a filler
  6. Sand down your door
  7. Wipe down with methylated spirit

Now you’re ready to apply your primer and after that, your new paint colour.

Better yet, let us do the hard work for you. Get in touch to choose a low maintenance PVC or Composite Door option. We have over 50 standard colours to choose from or we can match any RAL colour.

How Much Does A Front Door Cost To Replace?

28

Jul
2020
Posted By : Rachel Bownds 0 Comment
How Much Does A Front Door Cost To Replace
Categories :Doors

Does your home need a new front door?

Whether it’s style or functionality at the top of your list of priorities, there’s one deciding factor that easily tops all others: cost.

So, how much does a front door cost to replace?

Here’s everything you need to know about how much it costs to replace a front door in the UK.

How Much Does A Front Door Cost To Replace?

In short: probably around £1,500; but don’t panic, that figure is a bit deceiving.

In the UK, the national average cost for a new front door runs between £500 and £2,500. So, while you could wind up paying a lot more than that initial £1,500, you could also wind up paying a lot less.

At the lowest end of the spectrum, you could find a perfectly good front door that will only run you about £250. On the other hand, for speciality or custom doors, your final bill could be well over £4,000.

What Can Affect The Cost Of A Front Door?

Above, we discuss the average cost of a new front door in the UK, but what causes the massive discrepancy between prices?

One of the most significant factors in determining the overall cost of a new front door is the material.

Price aside, the material you choose is entirely dependent on aesthetic choices and any security concerns you may have. Here’s a little more information about the cost of different materials and how to decide which is right for you.

uPVC

uPVC doors are generally the cheapest front door option available, running between £400 and £650. But, just because they’re cheap, that doesn’t mean they don’t come with perks.

uPVC doors tend to be extremely weather resilient and can last upwards of 35 years. That said, uPVC doors don’t always look as good as their wood or composite counterparts.

Pine

If you’re looking for a traditional wood door on a budget, pine may be the best choice for you. While pine doors can run as low as £120, their average cost can top out at well over £1,000.

Pine doors tend to be easy to repair, and you can repaint them if you ever want to change up your decor. That said, pine doors may not hold up as well to weathering, and tend to only last 15 years or so.

Mahogany

Another fantastic natural wood option is mahogany, which tends to run between £300 and £1,450. Mahogany comes with a lot of extra perks that make it well worth the cost.

Aside from the aesthetic flexibility of natural wood, mahogany is naturally resistant to decay and insects. However, mahogany, like most natural wood doors, requires a fair amount of upkeep.

Oak

As the most expensive popular natural wood option, a new oak door can run from £300 to upwards of £1,800. On top of all of the other perks that come with a natural wood door, oak is one of the most sustainable options available today.

That said, oak doors can require a lot of maintenance to stay weatherproof.

Composite

Composite doors come with the heftiest price tag, running anywhere from £650 to well over £2,500. That said, these doors are by far the best option when it comes to security and durability.

On top of having a long lifespan, over 30 years, composite doors can help cut back on noise pollution in your home and are very easy to maintain.

Ready To Replace Your Front Door?

So, how much does a front door cost to replace? Unfortunately, there is no definitive answer to this question the final price of your new front door is entirely up to you. That said if you want to ensure you’re getting the best prices, you need to start by selecting a reliable installer.

Are you ready to replace your front door? We’re here to help.

Contact us for more information about our services, or to schedule a consultation today.

N.B These prices are standard, entry level and are exclusive of installation.

UK Building Regulations For Replacing Windows & Doors

30

Jun
2020
Posted By : Rachel Bownds 0 Comment
UK Building Regulations For Replacing Windows & Doors
Categories :Doors, Windows

When you are in the market for new windows, you look for good savings and styles. What often goes overlooked are building regulations for window replacements.

Understanding and complying with UK building regulations is the most important part of replacing your windows. Ignoring them may make it impossible to sell your home down the line. It can even result in fines.

Let’s keep you on the right track and get you up-to-date with building regulations.

How To Comply With UK Building Regulations

Once you have your window upgrades complete, you need certification from your local council building control office. They will send an agent to inspect and confirm your new window upgrades.

You can also get this certificate from your installer. The installer will need their own certification through a government organisation like FENSA or CERTASS. Cosyhomes Windows complies with all the proper and current qualifications and is registered under the CERTASS scheme.

Breaking Down The Building Regulations For Windows & Doors

While you can let a professional handle all the details, it is good to understand building regulations before you get window replacements so you can recognise a job well done. Understanding the regulations can also help you appreciate the benefits that they can give you as well.

1. Thermal Performance and Construction

Any window built within building regulations will need to have a U-Value to fall in line with thermal performance. This U-Value comes from a formula that determines the proper seal and shielding of the window.

2. Structural Considerations

When you get a window that doesn’t fit into the original structure of the house, such as a bay window, you need to confirm that the window remains structurally sound.

Often this means proper reinforcement in the frame. A new lintel may also be required in the process.

3. Breaking Glass

If the glazing in your window is low to the ground, you will need reinforcement to keep it from breaking. The glazing needs to be toughened as a minimum requirement.

In extreme cases where a window is in a vulnerable area, this process will also help it to break in a safer manner, preventing dangerous projectiles.

4. Escaping From Fire

Any windows that are within a bedroom need to provide a way to escape a fire. If a fire breaks out, you’ll need an exit.

A good fire escape window should have an opening between 800mm and 1100mm above the internal floor level. The overall area should be at least 0.33m2 and not less than 450mm in width or height.

The window must also stay open without someone holding it open to allow everyone to escape with ease. This requires a special hinge which is sometimes referred to as a fire, egress or easy-clean hinge.

5. Ventilation

A new window should never reduce the amount of potential ventilation in a room. Any trickle vents or fans that came with the existing window must return. Improving ventilation is always the best option.

6. Safety

Preventing horrible accidents around the house is a major concern with any building regulations. The most common and dangerous is accidental falling from a higher story window.

To prevent this any window opening that is less than 800mm from the internal floor, where you can fall more than 600mm, must have a safety lock or restrictor hinge to prevent children from climbing or falling through the window.

Getting The Best With Cosyhomes Windows

With a better understanding of building regulations, you can make a more informed choice when it comes to your brand new windows.

There is no need to sacrifice your window quality or style for regulations. We here at Cosyhomes Windows pride ourselves on providing a cost-effective solution with customer-led focus. Contact us today for more information!

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