New garage doors make a fantastic investment, and can dramatically increase the usability of this invaluable outdoor space.

With a new garage door in place, you can make it far easier to open and close your garage, while also improving the insulation, security and visual appeal of your garage. Win-win!

But the question that remains is, which garage door should you choose?

If you’re stuck on this decision, below, we’ve weighed up the similarities, differences and benefits of two of the most common garage door types: roller and sectional garage doors.

What are the differences between sectional and roller garage doors?

Sectional garage doors and roller garage doors both share a lot of similarities, and perform in much the same way.

Furthermore, in terms of security, operation and automation, they also boast many of the same benefits.

However, there are some differences between the two, which you may need to weigh up.

Similarities:

Operation – both doors open vertically.

Compact size – both doors occupy minimal space (both outside and inside the garage).

Design and style varieties – both doors are available in a wide range of colours and styles, ensuring something to suit every property.

Security – as neither door type has handles, they are more difficult to break into. Plus, both types can be fitted with extra security features.

Automation – both doors can be readily automated, making both door types a great fit for property owners with concerns about accessibility.

Safety – both doors come with in-built emergency override systems, as standard.

Differences:

Construction – roller garage doors consist of a series of individual slats, which neatly roll and unroll when the door is closed and opened. In comparison, sectional doors are made of connected panels, to form a single, interlinked sheet.

Opening – roller garage doors roll up into themselves, into a box at the top of the garage. To open sectional garage doors, the door is slid upwards and backwards along rails, until it sits flush against the roof of the garage.

Space requirements – as they do not roll up, sectional garage doors have slightly higher space requirements.

Whereas roller garage doors take up less space, and their containment box can be positioned either inside or outside the garage.

Insulation – while both doors achieve high levels of insulation, sectional garage doors have better insulative properties, particularly if the door’s panels are double-skinned.

What are the benefits of sectional garage doors?

• Easy to open and close
• Can be readily automated
• Compact, and great for areas where space is limited
• High safety and security
• Great insulative properties
• A sleek, modern property upgrade
• Low maintenance requirements
• Complete flexibility in installation, including sizing options
• Available in a wide range of colours and styles

What are the benefits of roller garage doors?

• Easy to open and close
• Can be readily automated
• Extremely compact, and great for areas where space is limited
• High safety and security
• The containment box can be positioned either inside or outside the garage
• Low maintenance requirements
• Complete flexibility in installation, including sizing options
• Available in a wide range of colours and styles

Which garage door should I choose?

As you can see, both types of garage doors share many of the same benefits.

So, the decision of the best garage door for you depends on your requirements, and which areas you would like to prioritise.

If insulation is absolutely key for your garage (for example, because you are using it as an extra room), then a sectional garage door would offer the best match.

Or, if you want to focus on maximising the room’s space efficiency, then we would recommend opting for a roller garage door.

Apart from that, both doors perform in very much the same way, and either would be a great secure, stylish and convenient choice for a property!

Hörmann Garage Doors

At Wolf Doors, we install both sectional and roller garage doors from Hörmann.

Hörmann is one of the industry’s most well-known and highly regarded garage door manufacturers.

As a trusted supplier of Hörmann garage doors, Wolf Doors offers a wide range of Hörmann products, with options in multiple colours, styles and sizes.

So, to learn more about the different garage door types available to you, or to get specific advice about what type of garage door will best suit your property, contact our team today.

Flush sash windows are an extremely versatile window style, which offers a long list of impressive benefits.

As a result, it’s easy to see why they’re such a popular choice amongst homeowners. In fact, they feature in properties of a wide range of styles and time periods (more on this later).

To help you identify whether flush sash windows are the best fit for your property, or offer a rewarding investment, keep reading. Below, we’ve shared our quick yet comprehensive guide to flush sash window shopping.

What are flush sash windows?

The distinguishing feature of flush sash windows (also commonly known as flush casement windows) are their sashes. When the window is shut, these sashes (the part of the window that holds the glass panel) sit flush against the external window face. This means that the sash is completely level with the window’s outer frame.

This creates windows with sleek, perfectly streamlined contours.

Flush sash windows are available in a range of materials, such as wood, uPVC and composite materials. They also come in a wide variety of design and colour options.

At Wolf Doors, we supply and fit new and replacement flush sash windows for properties across Skipton, Harrogate and the surrounding areas. Plus, within our range, we offer flush sash windows in a number of different materials, and design options to suit every property!

How do flush sash windows work?

In terms of performance, from the inside of the property, flush sash windows look and operate in a very similar way to classic windows. Depending on the type of flush sash window that you choose, they can operate in the same way as side-opening casement windows, or sliding sash windows.

As a result, the elegant exterior aesthetic is achieved while still ensuring the same ease of use and performance benefits as other window types.

The main USPs of flush sash windows (compared to traditional windows) are their flush fit, and their high-performance sealing mechanisms (often including weather-stripping). These properties markedly improve insulation and minimise draft, thereby offering great energy efficiency benefits (we’ll cover these in more detail below).

What are the benefits of flush sash windows?

The key benefits offered by flush sash windows are:

• Extremely versatile, and available in a huge range of window styles and designs
• The ability to choose between sleek modern windows, traditional timber designs (which mimic 19th century, classic casement windows), and everything in between
• Among the highest performing windows on the market, particularly in terms of traditional-styled wooden windows
• Extremely resilient and resistant to weather conditions
• A far more durable and stable alternative to wooden windows (as they are not prone to rotting, warping or cracking)
• Clean lines and contours, creating a neat, elegant aesthetic
• Minimised drafts or air leverage
• Improved energy efficiency
• The ability to help maintain a consistent indoor temperature
• High security standards, thanks to the flush design, which makes forced entry more difficult (plus, these windows often include advanced locking mechanisms)
• Low maintenance requirements (particularly compared to traditional wooden windows)
• Long lifespan, representing a fantastic investment

If you are looking to invest in flush sash windows, Wolf Doors now supplies and fits new and replacement flush sash windows across Skipton, Harrogate and the surrounding areas.

What types of houses best suit flush sash windows?

Flush sash windows provide a wide range of impressive benefits. However, these advantages are particularly pronounced if you live in a period property, with traditional wooden windows.

This is because modern flush sash windows have been designed to recreate classical wood effects and timber window designs, but to an infinitely higher standard of performance and weather resistance.

As a result, you can invest in new windows that boast all the performance, energy efficiency, security and durability of a modern window, while still enjoying the traditional design aesthetic of your old wooden window.

But, that’s not to say that flush sash windows are limited to period properties.

These windows can complement all architectural styles, including everything from rural cottages to contemporary homes.

In more modern properties, flush sash windows provide a sleek finish and, by selecting a minimalist design style, they can enhance the neat, clean lines of your home (both its interior and exterior!).

In summary, thanks to the versatility and customisability of flush sash windows, you can choose a window design that suits any property design or architectural context.

Wolf Doors are window and door specialists, with years of experience in the industry.

Now, our talented team supply and fit flush sash windows (both new and replacement windows) for properties across Skipton, Harrogate and the surrounding areas.

So, to find out more about our range of flush sash window designs, or enlist our team to install a flush sash window in your property, don’t hesitate to get in touch.

In this guide, the team at Wolf Doors take a look how best to clean your windows, looking at:

• Flush Sash Windows
• Casement Windows
• Sliding Sash Windows
• Aluminium Windows

How to Clean Flush Sash Windows

Thanks to the use of UPVC, UPVC flush sash windows are extremely low maintenance.

One of the biggest benefits of these windows is that they do not require frequent cleaning, and their fantastic durability makes them highly resistant to all the usual causes of window degradation.

However, by implementing a cleaning and maintenance schedule, you can address any unexpected issues before they are allowed to develop, ensure ongoing energy efficient performance, and guarantee a long lifespan.

The typical process for cleaning UPVC flush sash windows:

• Using a soft brush or a vacuum, dust the window frame, sill and sash. 
• Then (continuing to use a soft brush or a vacuum), clean the window tracks. Check for any stuck debris, and remove if spotted.
• Using a soft cloth or sponge, wipe down the window frame, sill and sash. For the cleaning solution, we recommend mixing a small volume of detergent (or a specialist window cleaner) with warm water.
• Rinse the window with clean water. Again, using a clean soft cloth or sponge.
• Finally, dry the entire window thoroughly, using a clean, soft cloth.

When cleaning your window, avoid using any harsh or abrasive chemicals, and ensure you are only using soft sponges or cloths. We also strongly suggest that you avoid pressure washing, as this can actually cause damage to the window.

General maintenance tips:

Inspect the entire window, checking for damage. We suggest looking for cracking, warping or any areas of extensive discolouration.

Check the window seals. Check for any signs of damage and deterioration to the seals, or any areas where mould or excessive condensation have built up.

Apply a lubricant to the window’s hinges and handles. To keep the window moving smoothly.

Test how well the window is opening and closing. Check for any signs of resistance.

Check the tracks. Check that the window’s tracks are free from any bits of debris.

Check for condensation. If your windows are double glazed or triple glazed, check that there is no condensation appearing in between the panes of glass.

Check the locks. Check the window’s locking mechanism, ensuring that the window closes fully and locks securely.

We recommend implementing an ongoing inspection schedule with a professional window specialist. They will provide a thorough, comprehensive inspection, and fully address any issues, before they are allowed to develop.

How to Clean Casement Windows

UPVC casement windows are very low maintenance. As a result, they will not require frequent cleaning.

However, implementing a cleaning and maintenance schedule is a good way to keep the windows in good condition, ensure energy efficient performance, and secure a long lifespan.  

The typical cleaning process for UPVC casement windows is:

• Dust the window frame, sill and sash, using a soft brush or a vacuum to remove any dust or debris. 
• Using a soft brush or a vacuum, clean the window tracks, ensuring any debris is removed.
• Wipe down the window frame, sill and sash, using a soft cloth or sponge.
• For the cleaning solution, we recommend using a small volume of detergent or a specialist window cleaner, both of which need to be mixed with warm water.
• With a clean soft cloth or sponge, rinse the window with clean water. Then, use another clean, dry cloth to thoroughly dry the entire window. 

General maintenance tips:

Inspect the entire window for damage. Typical signs to look out for include cracking, warping or extensive discolouration. 

Check the window seals. Look for any signs of damage and deterioration, as well as mould or excessive condensation. 

Test how the window is opening and closing. Check for any signs of resistance or points where the smooth movement is interrupted. 

Check that the window’s tracks. Check the tracks are free from debris or obstructions. 

Check for condensation. If your windows are double glazed or triple glazed, check that there are no signs of condensation appearing in between the panes of glass. This can be indicative of a system fault. 

Check the locks. Check the locks on the window’s locking mechanism, ensuring that they close fully and lock securely. 

Add a silicone-based lubricant to the window’s hinges and handles. This will keep the window moving smoothly, until your next maintenance checks.

How to Clean UPVC Sliding Sash Windows 

Unlike traditional timber sliding sash windows, the use of UPVC means that UPVC sliding sash windows are extremely low maintenance. 

UPVC sliding sash windows do not require frequent cleaning, and offer a fantastic level of durability, even with low levels of ongoing maintenance.

But, it is still worth implementing a cleaning and maintenance schedule. This is because this periodic maintenance will ensure you resolve any unexpected issues, before they escalate.  

The typical process for cleaning UPVC sliding sash windows:

• Using a soft brush or a vacuum, dust the window frame, sill and sash. 
• Then (continuing to use a soft brush or a vacuum), clean the window tracks. Track maintenance is key for sliding sash windows. Check carefully for any stuck debris. For any particularly stubborn bits of dirt or debris, we recommend gently scrubbing the area with an old toothbrush.
• Wipe down the window frame, sill and sash with a soft cloth or sponge, and a cleaning solution. We recommend mixing a small volume of detergent (or a specialist window cleaner) with warm water. Ensure you avoid using any harsh or abrasive cleaning chemicals. 
• Gently rinse the window with clean water, before drying thoroughly with a clean, soft cloth.

General maintenance tips:

Check for problems and damage. Inspect the entire window, checking for any signs of cracking, warping or any areas of extensive discolouration. 

Check the window for any signs of damage, deterioration, mould or condensation, particularly around the seals.

Check the sliding mechanism. Lightly lubricate any moving parts, including the window’s sliding mechanism. 

Check for stiffness. Test how well the window is opening and closing, by opening the window as far as it goes, and checking for any signs of resistance. 

Check the tracks. Check that the window’s tracks are free from any dirt or debris. If you do spot anything, see the recommended cleaning steps above. 

Check the locks. Inspect the window’s locking mechanism, to check that it is continuing to lock securely. 

We also suggest implementing an ongoing window inspection schedule, with a specialist. They will conduct a thorough, comprehensive inspection of your window, and fully resolve any issues, before they escalate into a bigger, more costly problem.

How to Clean Aluminium Windows

One of the biggest benefits of aluminium windows is that they have exceptionally low maintenance requirements.

This means that aluminium windows do not require constant cleaning or repairs, and typically achieve an extremely long lifespan.

However, it is still recommended to implement a cleaning and maintenance schedule (even if it’s only a few times a year!).

These short sessions of cleaning and maintenance will go a long way towards preventing any issues from occurring, and keeping your window performing at its best, for longer.

The typical process for cleaning aluminium windows:

• Using a soft brush or a vacuum, remove any dust or debris from the window frame, sill and sash.
• Then (continuing to use a soft brush or a vacuum), clean the window tracks. If you are struggling to remove any particularly stubborn bits of dirt or debris, try gently scrubbing the area with an old toothbrush.
• Wipe down the window frame, sill and sash with a soft cloth or sponge, and a cleaning solution.
• For the cleaning solution, we recommend adding warm water to a small volume of detergent (or a specialist window cleaner).
• Gently rinse the window with clean water, to remove all the cleaning solution. Finally, dry the entire area thoroughly, using a clean, soft cloth.

When cleaning your window, ensure you avoid using any harsh or abrasive chemicals, as these can scratch or damage the windows.

General maintenance tips:

Look over the entire window, and check for any potential issues. In particular, keep an eye out for any signs of cracking, warping or extensive discolouration.

Then, check the window seals thoroughly. Look for any signs of damage, deterioration, mould or condensation.

Remove any dirt or debris in the window tracks. See the steps above for the recommended cleaning process.

If you have double glazing or triple glazing, check that there are no signs of condensation building up in between the window panes (as this can be a sign of a failed system).

Lightly lubricate any moving parts of the window, including the hinges and handle.

Test how well the window is opening and closing. The window should move smoothly, with no areas of resistance.

Test the window’s locking mechanism, to ensure it is locking securely.

We also highly recommend working with a window specialist, to implement an ongoing window inspection schedule. During these visits, they will conduct a comprehensive inspection of your window. This way, you can ensure any problems are fully resolved, before they escalate into a larger, more expensive issue.

If you are looking for a new set of windows for your home, contact our team today to book a free survey. Here at Wolf Doors we cover customers across Skipton, Harrogate and beyond.