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Can I change uPVC door without replacing frame?

As long as the door frame is in good condition, and the new door panel is the same size as the old one, replacing a door without replacing the frame is certainly a possibility.

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From improving security and reducing energy bills through to boosting kerb appeal, replacing the doors in your home holds a wealth of benefits. Constantly in-use, door panels are subjected to considerable wear and tear over their long lifespan. Although, in some situations, the door frame can be relatively unscathed. When this is the case, we’re often asked if just the door can be replaced without replacing the frame…

So, can you put a new door in an old frame?

As long as the door frame is in good condition, and the new door panel is the same size as the old one, replacing a door without replacing the frame is certainly a possibility. However, there are certain signs that can indicate your door frame needs replacing. So, if any of the following applies, the whole door will need to be replaced.

5 signs your door frame needs to be replaced

Rotten wood

Cracks/splits

Warping

Dents

Deep scratches.

Replacing just the door may seem more cost-effective, but you can’t put a price on your family’s safety. So, in most cases, replacing the entire door makes the most sense to ensure your home remains secure and efficient.

Do you need new frame for a fire door?

Fire doors must comply with numerous health and safety regulations. Therefore, fitting a new fire door into an existing frame is a practice best avoided if you want to ensure the door is fit for purpose and fully complies with the certification of the new fire door panel.

What is a pre-hung door?

For ease and quick installation, pre-hung doors come set into the frame already, along with the hinges, locks, and handles. Whereas a slab door is just the door that swings open and shut. As slab doors don’t usually come with cut-outs for hinges and hardware, DIY slab door installation can be difficult and time-consuming compared to pre-hung door installation. As accredited glazing specialists, we install high-quality pre-hung doors as well as slab doors, depending on your individual project requirements. Contact us to discuss your needs further.

What are the advantages of a pre-hung door?

Weathertight

Simple installation process

Perfectly level and plumb

Ideal where there’s no existing door frame

Ideal for new builds, once new floors have been installed.

Visualise new doors in 3D with Ideal Windows

Once you’ve completed our online quote form, our team of experts will transform your initial door designs into impressive high-quality visuals.

Replacement door installers in Portsmouth, Southampton, Hampshire & West Sussex

Installing a wide range of high-performance front and back door styles, whether you’re looking for uPVC, aluminium, composite, timber, or even a compliant fire door, we can design your perfect door. Browse through our comprehensive home improvement finance options, visit your nearest Ideal Windows showroom, or contact us online to find out more.

Welcoming green door ideas for Hampshire homes

What are the most secure front doors?

Door Buying Guide

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Do I need to sand uPVC before painting?

First in preparation for the application of paint to the UPVC door, the surface must be thoroughly cleaned to avoid any difficulties with the application. Using a low key sandpaper, sand down the full UPVC in order to create a slightly rougher surface in order to paint.

What are UPVC Doors & Windows?

UPVC is a type of plastic utilised for exterior trims such as doors, window frame and down pipes. UPVC doors in particular are a highly secure, low maintenance choice for the home, providing insulation for the colder months at a reasonable price. Unfortunately, UPVC doors and windows can be an unsightly addition to a property as they often look dated, especially in white. UPVC doors also suffer from discolouration over a period often leading to many people replacing them which can be costly.

Can You Paint UPVC Doors & Windows?

A question that we are often asked is can you paint UPVC doors & windows, to which the answer is simple, yes you can. As UPVC doors are made of plastic it is understandable that some would question the ability to paint on this surface however the key is in the choice of the paint. Applying the right paint to your UPVC door is essential to avoid paint failure. Additional issues surrounding painting on any exterior surface stems from the elements. Thermal expansion is a relevant issue especially in the UK’s unpredictable climate. If the paint doesn’t match the plastics expanding tendencies, then this will be evidently seen with peeling paint. Furthermore, any paint applied to UPVC doors and windows must be able to withstand weathering, as any low-quality paint will allow moisture to get underneath the paint film, causing it to peel off.

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