Front doors and sliding patio doors in Ireland

Oct 20

3 min read

Doors that keep the weather out

Front doors and sliding patio doors in Ireland have to cope with driving rain, wind and damp, while keeping heat in and intruders out. The material, the frame, the glazing and the quality of fitting all affect how well a door performs over the years.

On Archizone you can browse listed door suppliers and installers, see what they offer and contact them directly. It is free for buyers. You can also see our list of windows and doors suppliers in Ireland.

Materials compared

Composite. A popular choice for front doors. A reinforced core with a durable outer skin, available in many colours and styles, with little upkeep.
Aluminium. Slim, strong frames that suit large glazed sliding and bifold doors. Make sure the frame has a thermal break to limit heat loss and condensation.
Timber. Warm in look and suitable for period homes. Needs repainting or re-oiling from time to time, especially on exposed elevations.
uPVC. A lower-cost option for patio and back doors, with limited choice for larger openings.

Energy performance

Ask each supplier for the U-value of the complete door, not just the glass. A lower figure means less heat loss. Check that the quote covers the glazing specification, the threshold and how the door will be sealed to the wall, as poor fitting can undo a good U-value. If the door is part of a wider energy upgrade, check the current SEAI schemes before you order.

Security

Locking. Look for multi-point locks and anti-snap cylinders on front doors.
Testing. Ask what security standard the door set has been tested to, and whether the glazing is laminated or toughened.
Sliding doors. Check that panels cannot be lifted out of the track from outside and that the locks engage at more than one point.

Sliding patio door types

Inline sliding. One or more panels slide past fixed panels. Simple and reliable for most openings.
Lift-and-slide. The handle lifts the panel off its seals before sliding, so very large, heavy panels move easily and seal tightly when lowered.
Threshold. Low or flush thresholds give a level step to the patio, but need careful drainage detail to keep water out.

Fitting

Get a site survey before ordering, as openings in older houses are rarely square. Ask who removes the old door, who makes good the plaster and finishes, and what warranty covers the door and the fitting. Large sliding doors may need a new lintel, which should be checked by an engineer.

Ask the forum

Not sure whether composite or aluminium suits your house, or whether lift-and-slide is worth it for your opening? Ask in the Construction forum, where homeowners and suppliers share practical experience.

List your business

Do you supply or fit front doors, patio doors or windows in Ireland? List your business on Archizone so people planning home improvements can find you and contact you directly. Plans start at €14 a month + VAT, with Growth and Premium options for more visibility.

FAQ

Do I need planning permission to replace a front door?

Replacing a door like for like is usually not an issue, but protected structures, conservation areas and changes to the front of the house can need permission. Check with your local council if in doubt.

What is the difference between sliding and bifold doors?

Sliding doors move panels past each other and keep large areas of glass with slim frames. Bifold doors fold back to open almost the whole width, but have more frame lines when closed.

How long does it take to get a new door?

Made-to-measure doors usually take a few weeks to manufacture. Fitting a single door often takes a day, while large sliding systems can take longer.