Double glazing for doors
Experience the benefits of double-glazed doors with SpotDif. Protect your home, conserve energy, and save money by using our price comparison tool.
The SpotDif double glazed door guide
At SpotDif, we understand the importance of choosing the right double-glazed doors for your home. Double glazing is a technique involving two glass panes with a sealed space between them, offering superior insulation, enhanced security, and noise reduction. You may be surprised to learn that these benefits apply not only to windows but also to doors.
From double-glazed front doors and patio doors to internal doors, discover how double-glazing can transform your home. Our double-glazed door guide has all the information you need. Plus, you can save money with our handy price comparison tool. Find your ideal double-glazed doors at the best prices today.
How much does a double-glazed door cost?
When considering new home improvements, cost is always a key factor to think about — especially when investing in something as beneficial as double-glazed doors. The price of double-glazed doors can vary widely depending on several factors.
Let's break it down together to give you a clearer understanding.
Factors influencing the cost of double-glazed doors
The cost of double-glazed doors in the UK depends on various factors. So you can gauge what to expect, here’s what you should consider
Material type
- uPVC doors: Known for their affordability and durability, uPVC doors are a popular choice. Whether you go for uPVC single or double doors, they require minimal maintenance and offer ample insulation.
Composite doors: Made from a mixture of materials, these offer high durability and low maintenance. They often provide better insulation and security but can be more expensive than uPVC doors.
Wooden frames: Timber doors provide a classic aesthetic but can be more expensive due to the craftsmanship and quality of the wood used. Bear in mind that a wooden double-glazed door could also mean higher maintenance costs, as wood is more susceptible to weather and light damage.
Aluminium frames: Offering a modern look, aluminium frames are strong and long-lasting but typically come at a higher price point than UPVC.
Size and style
- Double-glazed French doors: As with any purchase, elegance comes at a cost. The intricate designs and larger glass areas of French doors often result in a higher price.
Large patio doors: The expansive glass and framework needed for these doors can increase the cost — especially for sliding or bi-folding designs.
Glass quality
- Toughened glass: This safety feature is recommended for lower panels and doors in high-traffic areas, adding to the cost due to its enhanced security.
- Energy-efficient glass: Investing in low-emissivity (low-E) glass can be costlier upfront but provides better insulation, leading to sustainable energy savings.
Installation methods
- Regional variations: Installation costs for double-glazed doors in the UK can differ due to regional variations in labour rates. For example, in London, installation costs are typically higher compared to other regions.
- Job complexity: The price of your double-glazed doors can escalate if the installation involves altering door frames or custom fitting methods.
Are double-glazed doors worth it?
Considering the benefits — improved energy efficiency, enhanced security, noise reduction, and increased property value — investing in double-glazed doors is frequently considered a worthwhile purchase. They not only enhance your living environment but also contribute to long-term savings on energy bills.
How much should you pay for a new door?
On average, the cost for a basic uPVC double-glazed door starts from around £500, but prices can escalate to over £2000 for high-end options like large double-glazed patio doors or more intricate, bespoke designs.
Remember, the cheapest option isn’t always the best in terms of quality and longevity — it's important to find the right balance between cost and quality.
Our job is to help you navigate these options. Our price comparison tool allows you to compare the cost of various double-glazed doors, ensuring you make an informed decision that fits your budget and meets your needs.
With SpotDif, you can always rest assured that you're getting the best value for your investment.
What’s the difference between double-glazed composite doors and double-glazed uPVC doors?
When selecting a double-glazed door for your home, understanding the differences between double-glazed composite doors and double-glazed uPVC doors is crucial.
Comparing composition and durability
Composite doors are made from a blend of materials, including wood, PVC, insulation foam, and GRP (glass-reinforced plastic). This makes composite doors a robust, secure, and efficient option for insulation. They are designed to look like wood but resist weathering better due to their composite nature.
Alternatively, uPVC doors are constructed mainly from plastic. They are cost-effective, low maintenance, and provide good thermal insulation. However, they may not match the strength and aesthetic appeal of composite doors.
Comparing aesthetics
Composite doors offer a wide range of styles and finishes, closely mimicking the natural look of wood. On the other hand, uPVC doors are more limited in design and finish options but can suit various modern architectural styles. It all depends on your preferences, after all!
Comparing energy efficiency and security
Both types of doors provide excellent double-glazing benefits, such as energy efficiency and sound insulation. However, composite doors generally offer higher security due to their robust construction.
Comparing cost and installation
uPVC doors are generally cheaper to purchase and install. However, as we’ve previously mentioned, installation costs vary by region but are typically lower than for composite doors.
On the other hand, composite doors tend to be more expensive due to their complex construction. The installation cost might also be higher, reflecting the quality and installation requirements of a double-glazed composite door.
Are uPVC double-glazed doors cheaper than double-glazed composite doors?
uPVC double-glazed doors tend to be more affordable than their composite counterparts. This difference reflects the materials and construction processes involved.
In choosing between a double-glazed composite door and a UPVC door, consider factors like budget, aesthetic preference, and security needs. At SpotDif, we can assist you in comparing options and prices, ensuring you find a door that meets your requirements and budget.
Can you double-glaze a front door?
Yes, you can indeed double-glaze a front door! Double glazing involves installing two panes of glass with a space in between — and this is a process that's not just limited to windows.
In fact, it’s always a good idea to double-glaze your front door panels as this area can reduce the amount of draught that filters into your property. However, it’s important to consider the existing door frame’s compatibility and whether it can support the additional weight of double-glazing.
If this is something you’re considering for your property, we recommend booking professional assessments of the area to ensure optimal door performance and safety. At SpotDif, we’ll be more than happy to assist you in comparing quotes and finding skilled professionals for the job.
Are double-glazed doors worth it?
Double-glazed doors are entirely worth it, and it’s best to view them as a long-term, money-saving investment.
Improved insulation: Double-glazed doors effectively trap heat during colder months and repel heat during warmer seasons. This results in significant energy savings and a comfortable home environment throughout the year.
Noise reduction: They act as a sound barrier, significantly reducing the intrusion of street noise, neighbours, and other external sounds, making your home a peaceful sanctuary.
Enhanced security: The robust construction of double-glazed doors makes them more resilient against forced entry compared to single-glazed doors, adding an extra layer of security to your home.
Reduced condensation: This helps prevent the build-up of moisture, which can lead to undesirable mould and damp issues.
Increased property value: Homes with double-glazed doors often have a higher market value and demand due to their energy efficiency and aesthetic appeal.
Eco-friendly: By reducing energy consumption, double-glazed doors contribute to a lower carbon footprint.
How long does a double-glazed door last?
The lifespan of a double-glazed door is influenced by factors like material, quality, installation, and maintenance.
uPVC double-glazed doors are a great choice if you’re looking for durability. They typically last between 20 to 30 years, thanks to their resistance to weathering and minimal maintenance needs. Composite double-glazed doors also boast impressive longevity — their sturdy, multi-material construction means they have a lifespan that often exceeds 30 years.
Whichever type of doors you choose, it’s important to remember that correct fitting and maintenance are key. Incorrectly fitted doors might face operational issues, leaks, or draughts. Meanwhile, it’s essential to clean your doors regularly, inspect seals, and address any damage quickly. These actions will help prolong your double-glazed door's lifespan.
Can you reseal a double-glazed door?
Yes, you can reseal a double-glazed door! Over time, the sealant around the glass units or between the door and the frame can deteriorate, leading to issues like draughts or moisture ingress.
Resealing involves removing the old sealant and applying a new, high-quality sealant specifically designed for double glazing. It's a cost-effective way to address these issues and enhance your door's performance. For the best results, it's advisable to hire a professional, as they have the right tools and expertise to ensure a durable and effective seal.
Are there any UK grants or schemes for double-glazed doors?
The UK Government is committed to supporting the installation of domestic energy efficiency measures. However, double glazing for doors and windows doesn't receive significant attention in most grant schemes.
However, there are a few exceptions for double-glazing grants and schemes, as outlined below.
Energy Company Obligation (ECO4)
Running until March 2026, the ECO4 scheme primarily supports vulnerable households to improve energy efficiency and reduce heating costs. It mainly funds insulation, heating, and solar PV — but there may be opportunities for double glazing grants if upgrading from single glazing, so keep an eye out for any updates.
Affordable Warmth Scheme (AWS) in Northern Ireland
Managed by the Northern Ireland Housing Executive, this scheme targets low-income households to enhance energy efficiency.
The Affordable Warmth Scheme (AWS) includes grants for draught-proofing your doors and windows, as well as double glazing — but only when upgrading from single glazing.
Why not take a look at our door and window grants pages for more details on the financial support available?
Find your double-glazed doors with the help of SpotDif
Looking for the perfect double-glazed doors? Our team at SpotDif is here to simplify your search.
Our comprehensive price comparison tool helps you effortlessly compare the prices different double-glazed doors from various suppliers. Benefit from the convenience of finding the best deals, ensuring you get quality doors at competitive prices.
We're committed to helping you make an informed decision that suits both your needs and budget. Ready to upgrade your home with the ideal double-glazed doors? Let’s start by guiding you to the perfect choice.
Last updated on 16 Apr 2024