Doors
Back to frequently asked questionsDoors
What opening types are there for aluminium doors?
There is a wide selection of opening types of aluminium doors that are available in the UK market:
Hinged doors:
The classic way of opening with single and double leaf variations, both inward and outward opening. Sometimes referred to as a swing door. There are concealed hinge options available. These doors are often used as entrance doors or front doors.
Pivot doors:
This door rotates around a vertical axis instead of traditional hinges. It gives a modern and refined look, often used in settings such as education, retail and public buildings. Also available with anti-finger trap technology.
Sliding Doors:
Typical patio door that can be purchased as a lift-and-slide or sliding solution. Available with up to 3 tracks, combinations of up to 6 fixed and sliding leafs available. Full opening corners are available as well as motorised and new magnetic levitation technology.
Folding Doors:
Often called bifolds, or sliding and folding doors. Seen as an alternative to traditional patio doors that slide behind each other, bifolding doors allow for a concertina effect to fully open up a room.
To see our full door range, click here. Speak with the Reynaers team to see what is available locally, and who can advise on specific security and performance requirements.
What is the difference between a rebated and flush door?
A flush door and a rebated door are both revolving doors, but they differ in how the door leaf is placed in relation to the frame. With a flush door, the door leaf and frame are completely in one plane, which ensures a sleek and minimalist design that fits perfectly with modern homes.
A rebated door, on the other hand, partially falls over the frame. This gives the door a subtle relief and a more robust look, ideal for a classic or country style.
What is the difference between a handle and a door pull?
A door handle is the classic lever that you push down to open a door. It is functional and practical.
A door trigger is a fixed handle that you use to pull or push the door. It doesn't have a mechanical function like a handle, but it does give your door a sleek and modern look. You often see door pullers in contemporary homes or as an eye-catcher in large doors.
What needs to be considered when choosing the opening type for your property and UK projects?
Firstly, consider the internal or external obstructions of the building. In the UK, we typically have internal blinds or curtains so would use an open-out solution.
Next, consider how you would like the window to open and operate. Choices typically include top or side hung casements (opening outwards), or tilt-turn (opening inwards).
Once you have decided which opening type best suits your project, you will need to consider safety and security requirements in line with UK building regulations.
Does Reynaers Aluminium offer a Thermal Commercial Door?
Yes, Vision 7 is the latest evolution in the Vision range of doors. This thermal commercial entrance door with anti-finger trap technology has surpassed 1 million open-and-close cycles, making it an ideal solution for a wide range of ground floor applications in high traffic areas such as schools, hospitals, shopping centres and offices.
This premium market leading robust entrance door also achieves an array of security accreditations, being PAS 24 certified, as well as achieving Security Technical Schedule (STS) STS 202 to Burglar Resistance Levels 1 and 2. It is also available with access control as a PAS 24 and STS 202 solution with a Maglock single leaf door*.
*Fabricators must be STS202 certified to offer Vision 7 to the STS202 enhanced security standard.
Learn more about Vision 7 here.
What is the difference between MasterLine 8 and SlimLine 38 systems?
The difference between MasterLine 8 and SlimLine 38 is mainly in design and insulation.
With SlimLine 38, you choose an ultra-slim profile that creates an elegant, almost steel look – ideal for those looking for a minimalist look. This system achieves strong insulation values that perfectly meet current standards.
MasterLine 8 combines a sleek, slim design with even more extensive insulation options. Thanks to the different variants, this system offers extra flexibility to tailor the performance exactly to the wishes of your project.
In both cases, you have the certainty of an aesthetic and high-performance solution, each with their own strengths.
How do I take advantage of Reynaers’ 10-year system guarantee?
To ensure your Reynaers Aluminium system is covered by our 10-year system guarantee, a number of requirements must be met during fabrication, installation and throughout the life of the product. This includes (but is not exclusive to) the following:
- When choosing a fabricator or installer, ensure they have the appropriate, up-to-date training and qualifications in place, such as GQA accreditation.
- During fabrication and installation, the correct approved sealants and adhesives must be used. Refer to our product manuals for further information.
- Once installation is complete, you will receive a Reynaers guarantee pack, along with a copy of our Care and Maintenance brochure. Be sure to check your fabricator has the relevant maintenance documentation, as your system must be maintained in line with the guidance provided in these documents. If you have any questions regarding maintenance or require post-installation support, your fabricator should be your first point of contact.
For details, click here to refer to our guarantee.
What U-values do I need to meet to comply with building regulations?
For building projects in England, the required U-values depend on the project type and the applicable Building Regulations. As a general guide under Approved Document L (Conservation of Fuel and Power):
- Replacement windows and doors in existing dwellings should achieve a U-value of 1.4 W/m²K or below, or a Window Energy Rating (WER) of Band B or better.
- New dwellings typically require windows and doors to achieve a maximum U-value of 1.2 W/m²K, although the overall energy performance of the building is assessed through SAP calculations.
- Commercial buildings are assessed under the non-domestic requirements of Approved Document L, where U-value targets vary depending on the building type and the project's overall energy strategy.
It's important to note that U-values are only one part of Building Regulations compliance. Factors such as air permeability, solar gain (g-value), thermal bridging, and overall building performance must also be considered.
Your fabricator or system supplier can advise on the most appropriate solution to ensure your project meets the relevant Building Regulations while achieving the desired aesthetic and performance requirements.
Reynaers offers a broad range of systems that comply with building regulations. Click here to discuss your specific project requirements with our team.
What sizes and configurations are available for our window / door systems?
Reynaers window systems are suitable for a range of applications, offering solutions for some of the largest openings possible – from a typical kitchen window to a floor-to-ceiling panoramic glazed opening.
Reynaers’ aluminium window and door systems are available in a range of variants, styles, and configurations. For details on the configuration of a specific window or door system, navigate to the relevant product page, then view the Technical Details section.
For more details and to discuss your individual project requirements, contact our technical team.
What building regulations do I need to consider when specifying and installing windows, doors, and curtain walling?
It’s important to discuss your project's specific requirements with your chosen fabricator or installer to ensure the most appropriate window, door, or curtain walling solution is specified.
As a minimum, your project should comply with the relevant Building Regulations for England, including:
- Approved Document Q: Sets out requirements for the security performance of doors and windows in new dwellings to help prevent unauthorised access.
- Approved Document L: Conservation of Fuel and Power: Covers thermal performance and energy efficiency, including U-values and airtightness requirements.
- Approved Document M: Ensures buildings are accessible and inclusive, with requirements for features such as thresholds, door widths, and ease of operation.
- Approved Document F: Specifies minimum ventilation requirements to help maintain good indoor air quality and reduce the risk of condensation and mould.
- Approved Document K: Covers safety glazing, guarding, and other measures to reduce the risk of injury.
Depending on the type, location, and intended use of your building, other Building Regulations may also apply. Your fabricator, installer, architect, or building control body can advise on the specific requirements for your project.
Alternatively, discuss your project requirements with a member of our team.
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