Cheap uPVC French Patio Doors
uPVC French patio doors are a great way to add style, light, and space to your home. They are also durable, energy-efficient, secure, and easy to maintain. Whether you want to create a seamless transition between your indoor and outdoor living areas, or simply enjoy the view of your garden, uPVC French patio doors can help you achieve your dream home.
However, uPVC French patio doors can also be quite expensive, depending on the size, style, color, glazing, and hardware you choose. That’s why we have created this guide to help you find cheap uPVC French patio doors that suit your budget and preferences.
We will also show you how to install and maintain them properly so you can enjoy them for years to come. By the end of this article, you will have all the information you need to choose cheap uPVC French patio doors for your home.
How to Find Cheap uPVC French Patio Doors
Size
One of the main factors that affect the price of uPVC French patio doors is the size. The larger the doors, the more expensive they will be. Therefore, you should measure the opening where you want to install the doors and choose a standard size that fits. This will help you avoid paying extra for custom-made doors.
Style
Another factor that influences the price of uPVC French patio doors is the style. There are many styles to choose from, such as traditional, contemporary, or cottage. The style you choose will depend on your personal preference and the design of your home. However, some styles may be more expensive than others, especially if they have more features or details. For example, a cottage-style door may have more panels and glazing bars than a contemporary-style door. Therefore, compare the prices of different styles and choose the one that suits your budget and taste.
Color
The color of uPVC French patio doors is also important, as it can affect the appearance and mood of your home. There are many colors to choose from, such as white, cream, grey, black, or woodgrain. The color you choose will depend on your personal preference and the color scheme of your home. However, some colors may be more expensive than others, especially if they are not standard or require special coating. For example, a woodgrain color may cost more than a white color, as it mimics the look of natural wood. Therefore, you should compare the prices of different colors and choose the one that suits your budget and style.
Price
The glazing of uPVC French patio doors is another factor that affects the price. The glazing refers to the glass panels that are fitted into the doors. There are many types of glazing to choose from, such as clear, frosted, tinted, or decorative. The type of glazing you choose will depend on your personal preference and the level of privacy and light you want.
However, some types of glazing may be more expensive than others, especially if they have more layers or coatings. For example, a triple-glazed door may cost more than a double-glazed door, as it offers more insulation and noise reduction.
Therefore, you should compare the prices of different types of glazing and choose the one that suits your budget and needs.
Hardware
The hardware of uPVC French patio doors is the last factor that affects the price. The hardware refers to the handles, hinges, locks, and other accessories that are attached to the doors. There are many types of hardware to choose from, such as chrome, brass, or black. The type of hardware you choose will depend on your personal preference and the security level you want.
However, some types of hardware may be more expensive than others, especially if they are more durable or have more features. For example, a multi-point locking system may cost more than a standard locking system, as it offers more protection and peace of mind. Therefore, you should compare the prices of different types of hardware and choose the one that suits your budget and requirements.
How to Install Cheap uPVC French Patio Doors
Installing cheap uPVC French patio doors can be a DIY project if you have some skills and tools, or you can hire a professional installer to do it for you. Here are some general steps and tips for installing uPVC French patio doors:
- First, you need to measure the opening where you want to install the doors and choose a standard size that fits. You also need to choose the style, color, glazing, and hardware of the doors according to your budget and preference.
- Next, you need to prepare the frame of the doors by assembling the parts and fixing the hinges, handles, and locks. You also need to attach the cill to the bottom rail of the frame with screws and sealant.
- Then, you need to fit the frame into the opening and make sure it is level, plumb, and square. You also need to use packers, shims, screws, wall plugs, and sealant to adjust and secure the frame to the wall.
- After that, you need to fit the doors into the frame and make sure they open and close smoothly. You also need to adjust the hinges and locks to ensure a proper fit and operation. You also need to check and seal the gaps between the doors and the frame with weather stripping.
- Finally, you need to test the doors and make sure they are secure and functional. You also need to check and clean the glazing and frames of the doors.
How to Maintain Cheap uPVC French Patio Doors
Maintaining uPVC French patio doors is not a hard task, but it requires some regular attention and care. If you want to keep your doors in good condition and extend their lifespan, you should follow these best practices for cleaning and caring for them:
- Wipe the doors with a soft cloth and mild detergent at least once a month to remove dust, dirt, and stains. Do not use abrasive cleaners, solvents, or bleach, as they may damage the surface and color of the doors.
- Lubricate the hinges, locks, and other moving parts with a silicone spray or oil every six months to ensure smooth operation and prevent rust and corrosion. Do not use WD-40 or other petroleum-based products, as they may harm the plastic and rubber parts of the doors.
- Check the seals and gaskets around the doors every year and replace them if they are worn, cracked, or loose. This will prevent water and air leakage and improve the insulation and energy efficiency of the doors.
- Inspect the glazing and frames of the doors every year and repair any cracks, chips, or scratches. You can use a filler or a touch-up paint to fix minor damages or contact the supplier or manufacturer for major repairs or replacements.
Way to Prevent or Fix the Common Problems
Sometimes, you may encounter some common problems with your uPVC French patio doors, such as scratches, cracks, warping, or draughts. Here are some ways to prevent and fix these problems:
- To prevent scratches, avoid using sharp or metal objects to open or close the doors or to clean the glass. You can also use a protective film or a screen to cover the glass and prevent accidental damage.
- To fix scratches, you can use fine sandpaper or a polishing compound to buff the affected area until the scratch is less visible. You can also use wax or polish to restore the shine and color of the doors.
- To prevent cracks, avoid exposing the doors to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight, as they may cause the plastic to expand and contract. You can also use a thermal curtain or a shade to block the heat and UV rays from the sun.
- To fix cracks, you can use a sealant or glue to fill the gap and seal the crack. You can also use a filler or touch-up paint to cover the crack and match the color of the doors.
- To prevent warping, avoid applying excessive force or pressure to the doors, as they may cause the frames to bend or twist. You can also use a level or a plumb line to check the alignment and balance of the doors.
- To fix warping, you can use a heat gun or a hair dryer to soften the plastic and reshape the frames. You can also use a hammer or a clamp to straighten the frames and secure them in place.
- To prevent draughts, avoid leaving the doors open for long periods of time, as they may cause the air to escape and create a vacuum. You can also use a draft excluder or a door stopper to block the gap and prevent airflow.
- To fix draughts, you can use weather stripping or foam tape to seal the gap and improve the insulation of the doors. You can also use a silicone sealant or a caulk to fill the gap and prevent air leakage.
Final Analysis
Before you buy cheap uPVC French patio doors for your home, you should do some research and compare the prices and features of different suppliers and styles. You should also consider the size, colour, glazing, and hardware of the doors that suit your budget and preference. You should also check the quality and warranty of the doors and the installation service. When you install cheap uPVC French patio doors, you should follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use the right tools and materials.
You should also make sure the doors are level, plumb, and square and that they open and close smoothly. You should also seal the gaps and test the doors for security and functionality. After you install cheap uPVC French patio doors, you should maintain them regularly and prevent and fix any problems that may arise. You should also clean and lubricate the doors and check the seals and gaskets. You should also repair any cracks, scratches, or warping that may occur.
