Heritage vs Standard Doors

When it comes to doors, the options can seem endless. If you're looking for a door that adds a touch of character and industrial chic, then heritage doors are a perfect choice. But how do they compare to standard doors?

In this article, we’ll be looking into the key differences between heritage French/bifold doors and standard French/bifold doors, helping you to decide which is right for your property.

What are Heritage Doors?

The concept of heritage doors dates back to the 19th century, with the design pioneered by Francis Henry Crittall. Originally, these doors were manufactured during the Industrial Revolution to increase natural daylight in factories and were made of steel. You might hear the doors referred to as "Crittall doors" because of their inventor's legacy.

Today they have evolved into lightweight aluminium alternatives, offering better thermal efficiency and durability than traditional Crittall doors, making them ideal for modern living.

Types of Heritage Doors

We offer 2 types of heritage doors range:

• Heritage French Doors: These double doors boast a classic French door look with multiple glass panels, ideal for creating a light and airy feel.
• Heritage Bifold Doors: Perfect for space-saving room dividers, our heritage bifold doors fold neatly against the wall when open, maximising floor space. Learn more about the benefits of bifold doors in our comprehensive guide "Complete Guide to Deciphering Bifold Doors".

Benefits of Heritage Doors

• Increased Light Flow: The generous use of glass allows for natural light to flow freely throughout your home, creating a brighter and more open ambience.
• Unique Aesthetic: Heritage doors offer a striking visual element, elevating the look of any contemporary or traditional space.
• Versatility: Heritage doors can be used both internally and externally (depending on the material), making them a great choice for creating a cohesive design throughout your home.
• Modern Functionality: Our heritage aluminium doors come in various styles, including French doors and space-saving bifold options, to suit your needs.
• Durability: Aluminium frames of heritage doors are known for their strength and resistance to wear and tear, ensuring your doors last for years to come.

Heritage Doors vs Standard Doors

Some factors of Heritage Doors and Standard French/Bifold Doors that you may want to consider include:

Heritage Bifold & French Doors

• Authentic Appearance: Heritage doors mimic traditional designs, offering a classic and timeless look. They’re ideal for heritage or period properties, preserving architectural integrity.
• Quality Craftsmanship: Often made with high-quality materials like aluminium, heritage doors feature superior construction techniques for longevity and durability.
• Enhanced Insulation: Better thermal performance with double glazing, improving energy efficiency and therefore reducing heating and cooling costs.
• Security Features: Heritage doors are often equipped with advanced locking systems for enhanced security, as well as stronger frames and hardware to deter break-ins.
• Value Addition: Heritage doors can increase the property value, especially for heritage or upscale homes. They serve as an attractive feature for potential buyers looking for character and quality in a property.

Standard Bifold & French Doors

• Modern Design: Standard doors feature a sleek and contemporary aesthetic, suitable for modern homes or renovations. Their clean lines and minimalist style complement contemporary architecture.
• Affordability: Generally more cost-effective due to simpler designs and materials, standard doors offer more budget-friendly options without compromising quality.
• Ease of Maintenance: The simpler designs of standard doors often mean easier cleaning and maintenance. As well as this, they feature less intricate parts that can be more straightforward to repair or replace should anything go wrong.
• Versatility: With standard doors, there is usually a wide range of styles, materials, and finishes to choose from. They’re flexible in design and functionality to suit various architectural styles.
• Space-saving: Bifold doors fold neatly to the side, maximising usable indoor and outdoor space. French doors swing inward or outward, requiring less floor space than sliding doors.

Choosing the Right Door for Your Property

Both types of doors have their own set of advantages, and the choice between heritage and standard bifold/French doors often depends on personal preferences, architectural style, and budget.

• Style: Heritage doors boast a bold, industrial aesthetic, while standard doors offer a more traditional or contemporary look depending on the material and finish.
• Functionality: Consider factors like soundproofing, privacy, and space optimisation when making your decision.
• Budget: Standard bifold doors or French doors may be the more favourable choice if you’re looking to save a bit of money, as they generally have a lower price point than heritage doors (particularly PVC options).

Both heritage and standard doors have their merits, so when deciding between heritage and standard doors, weigh your style preference, budget, and need for light and privacy to ensure the perfect fit for your home.