Sliding door questions from Uckfield homeowners
Will my old patio door opening take a new sliding door without building work?
Usually, yes. Most patio openings from the 1970s to the 1990s are about 2.4 metres wide, which is the standard size for a two-pane aluminium slider. The surveyor checks the lintel and the frame around the old door before confirming.
I want a 3.6 metre slider where there is a window and a back door now. What is involved?
The brickwork between them comes out and a new steel or lintel goes in, sized by a structural engineer. That needs building regulations approval from Wealden District Council's building control or an approved inspector, as well as the door itself. See opening sizes.
Does a bifold cost more than a slider?
No. At the same size they come out in the same price bands and take the same time to fit. Pick on how you will use the door. Sliders or bifolds.
Can the sliding panel be on the left or the right?
Yes. You choose which panel slides and which side it locks, so the opening sits where you walk out, not behind the sofa.
Can I have a flat, level threshold?
A low threshold gives an almost level step when the floor inside and the patio outside are close in height. It needs a drainage channel outside so rain does not pool against the frame. The surveyor will measure the levels before recommending one.
How secure are aluminium sliders?
Ask for doors tested to PAS 24, with multi-point locks on the sliding panel and anti-lift blocks so the panel cannot be lifted out of its track. The installer will tell you exactly what its doors carry.
What maintenance does a slider need?
Vacuum grit and leaves out of the bottom track now and then, wipe the frames with soapy water, and keep the drainage slots clear. There is no painting.
How long does fitting take?
A straight swap in the same opening is often done in a day. A widened opening adds the building work beforehand, so ask the surveyor for the sequence.
Is my house in a conservation area?
Around Uckfield, Wealden lists conservation areas at Uckfield town centre, Maresfield, Framfield, Fletching with Splaynes Green, and Old Heathfield with Cade Street. Most houses are outside them. Planning details.
Do I need anything from the council for a straight door replacement?
Not for most houses. The installer registers the job with FENSA and you get a certificate showing it meets building regulations. Keep it for when you sell.
Can you fit a slider into a new extension?
Yes. Ask the builder to leave the opening to the door maker's size with the steel in place, and the surveyor will measure it once the walls are up.
Do you do roof lanterns as well?
Ask in your enquiry. Lanterns are quoted after a survey because the cost depends on the roof, the kerb and the making good, so no example price is shown here.