Archive for month: April, 2025

Benefits, Features & Where to Use Them

Open up your home with timeless style and natural light.

If you’re planning a home renovation or looking for a stylish way to connect your indoor and outdoor space, French doors are a classic and elegant solution. But what exactly are French doors — and why are they such a popular choice among UK homeowners?

At Select Windows, we specialise in helping customers choose the perfect doors for their homes. Here’s everything you need to know about French doors, including what they are, how they work, and their many benefits.

What Are French Doors?

French doors are a type of double door that open outwards or inwards from the centre. They’re typically made of large panes of glass and framed in uPVC, aluminium, or timber, letting in plenty of natural light and creating a seamless link between indoor and outdoor living spaces.

Originally designed in 17th-century France to let in more light, this timeless design is still hugely popular today — offering a blend of practicality, beauty, and natural light.

Key Features of French Doors

• Double-door design – opens from the centre with no central pillar
• Large glass panels – perfect for brightening up a room
• Can open inwards or outwards depending on your space
• Available in uPVC, aluminium or timber frames
• Secure locking mechanisms with multi-point locking as standard
• Suitable for external or internal use

Benefits of French Doors

Here’s why so many UK homeowners choose French doors:

1. More Natural Light

The large glass panels flood your space with daylight — ideal for kitchens, dining rooms and conservatories.

2. Elegant Aesthetic

French doors add a touch of charm and sophistication to both period and modern homes.

3. Indoor-Outdoor Living

They create a smooth transition between your garden and home, perfect for summer barbecues, family gatherings, or simply enjoying your view.

4. Energy Efficiency

Modern French doors come with double or triple glazing and excellent insulation, keeping your home warm and energy bills down.

5. Improved Ventilation

You can open one or both doors to let in a breeze and fresh air whenever needed.

Where Can You Use French Doors?

French doors are incredibly versatile. Here are the most popular placements:

• From your living room or kitchen to the garden or patio
• As interior doors between two rooms, such as a conservatory and lounge
• On balconies or Juliet balconies, particularly for upstairs bedrooms
• In extensions or garden rooms for a luxurious finish

What Are French Doors Made Of?

At Select Windows, our French doors are available in a variety of materials:

• uPVC French Doors – low-maintenance, budget-friendly and energy-efficient
• Aluminium French Doors – strong, slimline, and ideal for modern homes
• Timber French Doors – perfect for traditional or period properties

All options come in a wide range of colours, finishes and glazing styles to suit your home.

Are French Doors Secure?

Yes – modern French doors are built with high-security multi-point locks, toughened safety glass, and optional laminated or triple-glazed upgrades. With Select Windows, you don’t have to compromise on safety or style.

French Doors from Select Windows

We offer a range of bespoke French doors designed to fit your space, lifestyle, and budget. Whether you’re going for modern minimalism or classic charm, we’ll help you find the perfect fit — with expert installation and outstanding customer service.

Thinking About Installing French Doors?

Ready to transform your space with light, style and easy access to the outdoors?

📞 Contact Select Windows today for a free consultation and no-obligation quote. Our experienced team is happy to guide you through every step.

Keep your windows looking brand new with these simple cleaning tips

uPVC windows are known for being low-maintenance — but that doesn’t mean they don’t need a little TLC now and again! Regular cleaning not only keeps them looking fresh but also helps extend their lifespan.

At Select Windows, we install high-quality uPVC windows built to last. But to help you get the most out of them, here’s our complete guide to cleaning every part of your uPVC windows — the glass, frames, seals, hinges and sills.

🧼 What You’ll Need:

• Soft cloths or microfibre cloths
• Warm soapy water (mild washing-up liquid works well)
• Non-abrasive sponge or soft brush
• White vinegar or glass cleaner
• Old toothbrush or soft paintbrush (for tricky corners)
• Vacuum cleaner with brush attachment (optional)

Step 1: Clean the Glass

Let’s start with the obvious bit — the glass.

How to do it:

1. Wipe down with a damp cloth to remove loose dust and dirt.
2. Use a glass cleaner or a solution of water and white vinegar.
3. Apply using a soft cloth or spray bottle and wipe in circular motions.
4. Buff dry with a clean microfibre cloth or newspaper for a streak-free shine.

Pro Tip: Don’t clean windows in direct sunlight — it causes streaks.

Step 2: Wash the uPVC Frames

Your white uPVC frames can attract grime over time — but don’t worry, it’s easy to clean.

How to do it:

1. Mix warm water with a small amount of mild washing-up liquid.
2. Use a non-abrasive sponge to gently wipe the frames.
3. For stubborn marks, use a uPVC-specific cleaner or a paste of bicarbonate of soda.
4. Rinse with clean water and dry with a soft cloth.

Avoid: Harsh chemicals, bleach, or abrasive scouring pads — they can damage the surface.

Step 3: Get Into the Hinges, Seals & Tracks

These hidden spots can collect dirt, leaves and even mould if left unchecked.

Hinges & Locks:

• Use a small brush or toothbrush to loosen dirt.
• Wipe clean and apply a tiny drop of light oil (like WD-40) to keep them moving smoothly.

Rubber Seals:

• Gently clean with soapy water and avoid pulling or stretching.
• Apply a little silicone spray to keep them supple and prevent cracking.

Window Tracks & Drainage Holes:

• Remove debris with a vacuum or brush.
• Check drainage holes at the bottom of the frames — if they’re blocked, gently clear them with a cotton bud or small stick.

Step 4: Finish with the Window Sills

Don’t forget the inside and outside window sills!

• Clean with soapy water and a soft cloth.
• Rinse and dry to prevent watermarks or mould buildup.

Bonus Tips:

• Clean your uPVC windows twice a year as a minimum — more if you’re in a coastal or high-pollution area.
• For extra shine, use a dry cloth to polish the frames once finished.
• Installing blinds or curtains can help protect your frames from constant sun exposure, which can discolour white uPVC over time.

Clean your uPVC windows twice a year as a minimum — more if you’re in a coastal or high-pollution area.

For extra shine, use a dry cloth to polish the frames once finished.

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Need Replacement Windows?

If your uPVC windows are looking tired or you’re dealing with draughts, misted glass or damage — it might be time to upgrade.

Select Windows offers a wide range of energy-efficient, secure and stylish uPVC windows tailored to your home. 📞 Get in touch today for a free quote or expert advice.