Get clear answers with GFD Homes. From composite vs uPVC doors to roof lantern leaks, we answer the most common homeowner questions on doors and windows.
What You’ll Learn:
- The differences between composite and uPVC doors
- How entrance doors compare to front doors
- Which door styles add the most value to your home
- Answers to common safety and performance questions on windows and roof lanterns
(Estimated Reading Time: 5-6 Minutes)
Welcome to Part 3 of our “Your Questions Answered” series. So far, we’ve covered everything from painting composite doors to bifold security and roof lantern insulation.
This time, we’re tackling a new mix of popular homeowner questions across composite doors, entrance doors, bifolds, sliding doors, aluminium front doors, aluminium and uPVC windows, roof lanterns, and front doors.
Composite Doors: Are Composite Doors Better Than uPVC?
It’s one of the most common comparison searches in the UK. Both options have their place — but here’s the reality:
- uPVC doors: Affordable, low-maintenance, decent insulation.
- Composite doors: Stronger, more secure, better insulation, and longer-lasting.
Composite doors usually cost more, but you’re paying for enhanced security and kerb appeal.
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Entrance Doors: What’s the Difference Between an Entrance Door and a Front Door?
The terms are often used interchangeably, but technically:
- Entrance door refers to any external access point (front, side, or back).
- Front door is specifically the main entry at the front of your home.
At GFD Homes, our Entrance Doors cover both, with options in uPVC, composite, and aluminium.
Bifold Doors: Do Bifold Doors Add Value to a Home?
Yes — and this is a key reason many homeowners invest in them. Bifold doors create open-plan living, connect indoors to outdoors, and flood rooms with light — all highly desirable features.
Estate agents regularly highlight bifolds as a selling point. While they’re not the cheapest option, the value they add in terms of lifestyle and resale potential is significant.
Browse Aluminium Bifold Doors
Sliding Doors: Are Sliding Doors Cheaper Than Bifold Doors?
This is a cost comparison we hear often. Typically:
- Sliding doors: Slightly cheaper due to simpler frames and mechanisms.
- Bifold doors: More expensive because of multiple panels and hardware.
That said, price depends on size, finish, and glazing options. Both are made-to-measure at GFD Homes, with instant pricing available online.
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Aluminium Front Doors: How Much Do Aluminium Doors Cost?
Aluminium front doors sit at the premium end of the market, with prices typically starting higher than uPVC or composite. Why? Because you’re paying for:
- Longevity (30+ year lifespan).
- Strength and security.
- Sleek, contemporary aesthetics.
Our Aluminium Front Doors are fully customisable, with transparent pricing through our configurator.
Aluminium Windows: Are Aluminium Windows Noisy?
Some homeowners worry that aluminium frames mean more noise. In reality, the noise level depends more on the glazingthan the frame.
Modern Aluminium Windows use double or triple glazing with acoustic insulation, so they’re just as quiet as uPVC equivalents.
uPVC Windows: Are uPVC Windows Fire Resistant?
Another frequent safety-related question. Yes, modern uPVC windows meet UK fire safety regulations. They are:
- Designed with fire-retardant properties.
- Fitted with glazing that meets safety standards.
- Compliant with Building Regulations.
At GFD Homes, all uPVC Windows are manufactured to meet relevant safety and compliance benchmarks.
Roof Lanterns: Do Roof Lanterns Leak?
A common concern — especially among homeowners who’ve seen older skylights fail. The answer: not if they’re built right.
Modern Roof Lanterns are engineered with:
- Thermally broken aluminium frames.
- High-quality seals.
- Specialist installation methods.
Leaks are only an issue with poor installation or sub-standard products.
Front Doors: How Do I Choose the Right Size Front Door?
This is where supply-only can feel daunting, but at GFD Homes, every Front Door is made-to-measure. We also offer measurement guides and check services to ensure accuracy before ordering.
Typical UK front doors measure around 900mm wide x 2100mm tall, but custom sizing means no compromises.
Conclusion: More Questions, More Confidence
In this part of the series, we’ve covered comparisons, safety concerns, costs, and sizing — all common questions that homeowners bring to us every day. The key takeaway is that modern doors and windows, when chosen wisely, offer both peace of mind and real long-term value.
With transparent pricing, instant online quotes, and nationwide delivery, you can explore your options without pressure.
🛒 Browse the full collection at www.gfdhomes.co.uk
📞 Or call 01642 309576 for expert guidance and a no-pressure quote.
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Browse our Articles
- GFD Homes Answers Top Doors & Windows Questions – Part 1
- GFD Homes: Your Door & Window Questions Answered Part 2
- Choosing the Right Doors & Windows: Your Questions Answered
- Looking for Trade Products? Try The Trade Village
Are composite doors worth the extra cost over uPVC?
A: Yes — composite doors are stronger, longer-lasting, and more secure. While uPVC is more affordable, composites offer better insulation and kerb appeal.
Q: Do roof lanterns leak over time?
A: Modern roof lanterns are designed with seals and thermally broken frames to prevent leaks. Problems usually only occur with poor installation.
Q: Can aluminium windows reduce noise?
A: Yes — noise reduction depends mainly on glazing. With acoustic double or triple glazing, aluminium windows perform as well as uPVC.
Q: Are all GFD Homes doors and windows made to measure?
A: Yes — every product from GFD Homes is bespoke, ensuring a perfect fit for your project.
