Doors FAQ

When planning for your new doorway, which can include front or back doors, patio doors, french doors and bi-fold doors, there will always be questions that need answering, whether that’s about the size, cost, style of the door. First Home Improvements have answered the most frequently asked questions (FAQs) about new and replacement double glazed doors below.

How much does installing a new front door cost in the UK?

The cost of installing a new front door will differ dependant on the type of door you want to install, the door style, material used if you need to replace the side panels, the size of the door, additional glass features, type of locking system, and the cost of adapting to the structure of your existing door and threshold.

What is the standard size of a front or back door in the UK?

The standard doorway in a home in the UK has doors that are 30″x78, 32″x80, 33″x78, 34″x82, 36″x84. Generally, most external doors are 44mm – 54mm thick but can be up to 70mm.

If you are unsure of the size you will need, our surveyors will be able to measure your existing doors and advise on the size and style of door that will fit just request a quote today to arrange your home visit.

What sizes of external doors do First Home Improvements provide?

Our range of external doors are available in standard UK sizes, but can also be customised to match the size needed for your doorway. If you are looking at replacing an exterior door within a large opening our bi-fold, French and sliding patio door range offer the ideal solutions.

External bi-fold doors open by folding in a concertina style and can be made to measure and fit large doorways. The double glazed glass allows extra light into your home and they feature a multi-locking security system for peace of mind.

French doors are composed of two (uPVC or Composite) and are fitted alongside each other to open outwards. French doors are elegant and visually appealing and can come in a range of colours too so you can match them to the existing atheistic of your home. First Home Improvements French doors are made to measure to non-standard sizes so that they fit large exterior doorways.

Sliding doors are the perfect mix between a window and a door and most used for garden areas, balconies and patios. They feature double glazing that increases light into your home and gives the best thermal insulation. You can choose from 2, 3 and 4 pane options and the finishes range from woodgrain effects through to more solid colours.

Can you paint a uPVC door?

You can paint a uPVC door, however, it may void your warranty, so it is best to first refer to your warranty document or speak to our team to double check first. If you are thinking about painting an old uPVC door you might want to consider replacing the existing door with a new composite / uPVC door as they are available in a huge range of colours, we also offer bespoke colours and colour match (choose from our RAL chart). A new door will also provide modern security using latest technology and last for many years.

What are the different door designs are there?

Our doors come in a range of styles and designs that can be customised to your personal taste. We offer Bi-fold doors, composite doors, French doors, sliding patio doors and garage doors. All of which can come with a choice of glazing, side panels and are available in a range of colours, styles and accessories including letterplates, spyholes and handles.

What is the difference between composite and uPVC doors?

Composite doors are made up of a mixture of materials including solid timber, reinforced steel, uPVC and other elements. uPVC doors are purely made from that one material, the other main difference is the price you pay. uPVC tends to be cheaper than composite, however, composite doors offer customers a higher level of home security, thermal efficiency and durability.

What warranty comes with a double glazed door?

Our products are built to last and our 10-year warranty for doors gives you the peace of mind you need.

How secure are composite front doors?

Composite is by far the most secure type of door, their frame is reinforced to protect against break-ins and as standard come designed with the highest door security specifications, including 11-point locking systems, 2 steel hoots and 1 deadbolt, 2 pre-compressed rollers, 2 anti-lift bolts and 3 high security hinges.

Do I need planning permission for bifold doors?

Installing new bi-fold doors to an existing door frame will generally not require planning permission, if they are part of a new extension then if you need planning permission will depend on the whole extension plan.