Top 10 Questions to Ask Before Replacing Your Doors

Thinking about replacing your doors?

You’re not alone. Across Newcastle, thousands of homeowners are upgrading tired front doors, improving their insulation, or giving their home’s kerb appeal a much-needed boost.

But before you start browsing colour swatches and locking mechanisms, it’s important to ask the right questions. The door you choose—and the team you hire to install it—can make a huge difference in comfort, cost, and long-term satisfaction.

As the founder of Windows and Doors Newcastle, I’ve helped countless local homeowners avoid common pitfalls and choose doors that truly fit their home and lifestyle. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the top 10 questions to ask before replacing your doors, so you can make the best choice with confidence.

1. What type of door is best for my property?

Not all doors are created equal. The best choice for your home depends on where the door is being installed, what level of security you want, and your personal style.

Here are the most common types:

• uPVC Doors – Affordable, low-maintenance, and popular in Newcastle homes. Good thermal efficiency, but can feel a bit basic.
• Composite Doors – A layered mix of materials that mimic timber, but are far more durable and energy-efficient. Excellent choice for front doors.
• Timber Doors – Classic and elegant, but require regular upkeep to prevent warping or rot.
• Aluminium Doors – Sleek, modern, and great for large openings like patios or bifolds.

Each has pros and cons, and not every installer will explain them clearly. At Windows and Doors Newcastle, we help customers compare materials based on their goals—whether that’s heat retention, visual appeal, or strength.

2. Is the door custom-made to fit?

You’d be surprised how many doors are cut down or “made to fit” on-site, especially by budget installers.

But a properly fitted door should be made-to-measure from the start. This ensures:

• A snug, draught-free fit
• Cleaner installation
• Better security and weather protection
• No need for excessive sealant or filler

We’ve replaced far too many badly fitted doors where air was leaking through the frame. At Windows and Doors Newcastle, we take precise measurements before any order is placed—and we never rush the process.

3. How secure is the locking system?

A new door should make your home safer, not just prettier. So pay close attention to the locks.

You want:

• Multi-point locking systems – These engage in several places up the frame, not just a single latch.
• Anti-snap cylinders – These resist lock-snapping, one of the most common entry methods used by burglars.
• British Standard Certification – Look for BS3621 or PAS24 ratings, which prove the locks meet safety standards.

Security should never be an afterthought. We offer high-security upgrades on all doors we install, with options that exceed insurance requirements.

4. What energy rating does the door have?

Your door plays a big role in your home’s energy efficiency. A cheap, poorly fitted door can cause major heat loss—especially in winter.

Look for doors that offer:

• A-rated energy performance
• Insulated cores (especially in composite doors)
• Low U-values (the lower, the better for heat retention)

All our composite doors at Windows and Doors Newcastle come with energy ratings, so you can see exactly how much warmer and more efficient your home will be.

5. What’s included in the quote?

This one’s critical.

Always ask what the quote covers—and more importantly, what it doesn’t. Some companies will quote for the door alone, but tack on extra charges later for:

• Installation
• Disposal of your old door
• Trims and finishing
• VAT

Make sure your quote includes everything. We provide clear, no-surprise pricing with every job we do, so you know exactly where your money’s going.

6. Do you offer a guarantee?

A proper door installation should last for years, and any good company will back up their work.

Ask for:

• A product guarantee (usually 10+ years)
• An installation guarantee
• Written documentation (not just a verbal promise)

Don’t skip this step. If anything goes wrong, you’ll want clear support. All our doors at Windows and Doors Newcastle come with full written guarantees—on both the product and the fitting.

7. Who’s doing the installation?

Some companies use in-house teams. Others outsource to third-party contractors.

You want to know:

• Who’s actually coming to your home?
• Are they experienced?
• Are they FENSA or CERTASS registered?
• Will they respect your property?

We only use our own trusted installers. No subcontractors, no unknown names—just professionals we’ve worked with for years.

Why does this matter? Because even the best door won’t perform well if it’s poorly installed.

8. Can I choose the style and colour?

Your front door says a lot about your home. Whether you live in a Victorian terrace, a modern semi, or a country cottage—there’s a style that suits.

Ask your installer:

• What colours are available?
• Can you add glass panels, sidelights, or decorative features?
• Can I customise the hardware (handles, letterboxes, knockers)?

Don’t settle for basic white unless that’s truly what you want. We offer a wide range of finishes and styles at Windows and Doors Newcastle, from bold statement doors to traditional woodgrain looks.

9. How long will it take?

Timing matters—especially if your current door is damaged or draughty.

Here’s what to clarify:

• How long does manufacturing take?
• When is installation scheduled?
• How long will the fitting take on the day?

A made-to-measure composite door usually takes 2–4 weeks from order to install. Fitting often takes just a few hours, though we always allow time to tidy and check the work.

Avoid companies that give vague lead times or miss deadlines without warning.

10. What happens if something goes wrong later?

It’s not fun to think about—but sometimes things shift, hinges need adjusting, or seals wear down.

Make sure your installer offers:

• A follow-up service if needed
• Clear instructions on aftercare
• Fast local support (not a national call centre)

We’re based right here in Newcastle. If you ever need us after installation, we’re just a phone call away.

Bonus: How will a new door impact your home’s value?

You might not be planning to sell now—but down the line, a high-quality door can help your home stand out to buyers.

Estate agents often talk about “kerb appeal”. And few things affect it more than your front door.

We’ve had customers call us after estate viewings, thanking us for how the door helped clinch the deal. It’s an upgrade that pays off both in comfort and in resale potential.

Final Thoughts

Replacing your door might seem like a small decision—but it has a big impact on your home’s warmth, safety, and first impressions.

By asking the right questions before you start, you’ll avoid hidden costs, poor quality work, and buyer’s regret.

Whether you’re just browsing or ready to upgrade, we’re here to help at Windows and Doors Newcastle. We offer honest advice, expert fitting, and doors that are built to last.

Get Expert Advice from Windows and Doors Newcastle

Ready to replace your front or back door?

Get in touch with our friendly local team for a free, no-pressure quote. We’ll help you find the right material, colour, and security features—so your door looks great, keeps you safe, and lasts for years.

Contact us today and see why more Newcastle homeowners trust Windows and Doors Newcastle for their doors and windows.