Some of our most frequently asked questions specifically about door styles, answered by Holly

Hello! My name’s Holly and my Dad runs Ideal Window Solutions; your favourite local window, door and conservatory specialists. Based in Fareham, Chichester and Southampton, amongst a varied collection of quality home improvement products, they expertly supply a range of high-performance uPVC, aluminium, composite, timber and fire doors throughout Hampshire, West Sussex and the surrounding area.

Your home’s doors can say a lot about you and your character. They come in so many styles and variations, it can get confusing to know what’s right for you. My Dad says there’s the right door out there for everyone. Having spent my whole life around all kinds of stunning doors, I’ve learnt a thing or two about their styles. That’s why I’ve taken the time to answer your frequently asked questions on door styles! For more information, please feel free to get in touch!

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Holly
Rosewood uPVC back door

What door is best for a back door?

From a security perspective, all of our doors are strong enough to provide adequate resistance against force from intruders. In terms of looks, many people choose to have back doors that let as much light into the house as possible. This could be achieved by french doors, patio doors, bifold doors, or any standard entrance door that has been fitted with decorative glazing.

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What is the difference between bifold doors and patio doors?

Both types of doors are constructed from multiple, large glazed panels, helping to fill your home with light. The panels of bifold doors fold over each and pile up in a neat stack. Meanwhile, the panels of patio doors slide over each other via tracks. They both stow away neatly and don't take up much floor space at all. If you have a great garden that's ideal for hosting social gatherings, a set of bifold or patio doors would be a fantastic addition to your home.

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Light oak aluminium bifold door interior view
Timber alternative flush sash french door

What's the difference between a patio door and a French door?

French doors have two central panels that open outwards via handles in the centre. By contrast, Patio door panels slide over each other via tracks embedded into their frames. As the name suggests, patio doors are also only found on the patio, leading into the garden. French doors can be installed by the patio, or on balconies, or pretty much anywhere, even in the interior of your home.

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What are patio door sightlines?

Sightlines refer to the distance between the patio door’s panels when they are slid over each other. The slimmer the sightline, the more sunlight enters your home, and the less obstructed your view becomes.

Aluminium is the optimum material for patio doors. This is because their strength allows them to support large panes of glass with only very thin frames. This makes for lower sightlines, which makes for better-quality patio doors.

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White uPVC sliding patio door
Colour swatches

What colour door should I choose?

Ideal offer a vast range of colours and foils for all of our doors. You'll be able to find the perfect colour for your new front door; traditional white or cream; Chartwell green; a variety of wood-effect finishes. Ideal offer it all.

Our team of experts are on hand to advise you on which colour is exactly right for you!

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What are timber-effect doors?

Timber effect doors are doors that combine the traditional appearance of authentic timber with the modern benefits of uPVC and composite materials.

While timber doors are fantastic, they can require slightly more maintenance than uPVC, which just requires the occasional wipe-down with soapy water. Timber effect doors offer this low maintenance, without sacrificing its beautiful appearance.

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Grey composite back door

Our latest reviews

Replacement windows and door

The team arrived promptly. Work was done efficiently and on time. They cleaned and tidied up after the job was completed. We are very pleased with the results and would highly recommend them

10 /10

Friendly

Very satisfactory work. Measurer and fitter very efficient, professional and friendly.

10 /10

Experienced

Highly experienced and skilled operatives. Prompt arrival and left the site clean and tidy. Courteous and respected the Government restrictions at all times. Have used this Company before for other conservatory work and would use again if required.

10 /10

Replacement Glazing

Very impressed with all aspects of contract during these difficult times. Fitters were fully compliant with covid rules. Will thoroughly recommend them

10 /10

Excellent

Excellent company. From first contact with their Sales, it has been easy going and painless. Fitters have done a fantastic job throughout, the quality of their workmanship is commendable. Would highly recommend this company to anyone.

10 /10

First class

The quality of the product and workmanship is of the highest quality. Well done Ideal Window Solutions Ltd. First class.

10 /10

Job was perfect

Everything about the two men who came was superb. They were punctual, friendly and experienced. Their workmanship was excellent. Their finished job was perfect. I would highly recommend them.

10 /10

Informative & professional

This is the second time we have used this firm. As before, they were informative and professional from start to finish. Prompt, tidy and thorough always.

10 /10

Would not go anywhere else

Brilliant. No fuss . No drama. Done in a couple of hours. Very pleased. Fourth door I have had fitted by this company. Would not go anywhere else. SFK. Alec lovely guy. Kind and respectful.

10 /10

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