BM Trading Trust T/A Doors Direct: BlogBloghttps://www.doorsdirect.co.za/Thu, 28 Mar 2024 08:50:34 GMTurn:store:1:blog:post:33https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/the-advantages-of-aluminium-doors-in-modern-architectureThe Advantages Of Aluminium Doors In Modern Architecture<p><strong><span style="font-weight: 400;"><img src="/images/uploaded/The Advantages Of Aluminium Doors In Modern Architecture.webp" alt="" width="917" height="688" /></span></strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2><strong>The Advantages Of Aluminium Doors In Modern Architecture</strong></h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Glass and steel have grown in popularity for years now, thanks to the increase in people who want a more modern twist to their buildings, such as clean lines, open spaces and modern colour palettes to name a few examples. This embrace of modern architecture has gradually done away with the ornate carpentry and heavy masonry of yore and instead,&nbsp; focused on minimalism, openness and functionality. More recently, however, aluminium has taken the spotlight for its minimalistic, modern style and its sustainable and durable properties. In this blog we’ll delve deeper into the properties of aluminium doors and why they could be advantageous additions to your building.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h3><strong>The Aesthetics Of Aluminium Doors In Modern Architecture</strong></h3> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Aluminium doors have transcended mere functionality, becoming key additions in crafting the modern aesthetic that we all know and love. Aluminium’s inherent sleekness embodies minimalism, seamlessly integrating with the strong lines and maximised natural light, both of which are staples in modernistic architecture. Unlike bulky and ornate frames of more traditional doors, aluminium profiles are slender, smooth and clean. When coupled with large, expansive windows, we can create a home layout that dissolves the barrier between indoors and outdoors.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">But aluminium's beauty goes beyond minimalism. Its versatility is unmatched. Forget boring metal doors; today, choose from a spectrum of vibrant colours to complement your design, from cool blacks and silvers to bold pops of colour that make a statement. Anodised finishes create a metallic sheen, while powder coating offers a wider palette with matte or textured options. This adaptability allows you to tailor your doors to perfectly match your unique vision and style. Whether it's a sleek industrial vibe or a vibrant, friendly aesthetic you’re after, the possibilities are endless.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h3><strong>The Undeniable Durability &amp; Performance Of Aluminium Doors</strong></h3> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Aluminium's lightweight strength, allows the material to thrive across South Africa's diverse climates. Its natural corrosion-resistant oxide layer shields it from rain, salt, and even mild acids, while its reflectivity keeps things cool even under the hot African sun. From windswept, humid coasts to sun-baked plains, aluminium's inherent strength and weather resistance make it a versatile and durable choice for any South African building in need of durable, high-performance doors.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">What exactly are the performance capabilities of aluminium doors?</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h3><strong>Thermal Insulation:</strong></h3> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Aluminium doors incorporate insulating materials like polyamide strips, which can significantly reduce heat transfer. This is known as “thermal break technology” which reduces the amount of heat that transfers between the outer and inner profiles of your aluminium door, thus helping to keep your home temperature regulated. Most modern aluminium doors often go beyond the thermal break technology, giving you the option to incorporate high-performance or double-glazed glass to further enhance the thermal insulation of your door.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">When choosing your aluminium doors, you will also have the option to get one with a low U-value or thermal transmittance. The lower this score on any aluminium door, the less heat transference takes place. These features significantly help regulate indoor temperatures and improve energy efficiency in your home.&nbsp;</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h3><strong>Soundproofing:</strong></h3> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The same glass options that improve the thermal insulation of your doors can dampen sound from the outside. Aluminium doors, when properly sealed minimise sound leaks around the frame. This will help mitigate the sound coming in and going out through your door. When choosing your aluminium doors, you also have the option to get one with a higher STC rating (Sound Transmission Class). A higher STC rating means better noise insulation. Note that none of these options can assist when your door is exposed to direct rain or hail, the noise of which may even become amplified by your aluminium door frame. It is also important to keep in mind that the noise insulation of your door depends heavily on the implementation and specific features installed.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h3><strong>Fire Resistance:</strong></h3> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Aluminium doors transcend aesthetics and durability, going so far as to weave fire safety into your home. These doors have an inherent non-combustibility and high melting point which stands as your first line of defence. Meticulously designed fire-rated options raise the potential safety factor even higher. This isn't just about ticking regulations; it's about peace of mind, knowing your loved ones and your home are as safe as they can be.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h3><strong>Durable &amp; Versatile:</strong></h3> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In South Africa's diverse climate, aluminium doors excel thanks to their impressive resistance to corrosion, warping, and even salty coastal winds. Surprisingly lightweight and easier to install than other options, their strength doesn't compromise aesthetics. From sleek modern styles to classic finishes, aluminium doors boast an extensive range that seamlessly blends with any architectural vision. These features make them versatile choices for contemporary buildings across South Africa.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h3><strong>Effortless Upkeep &amp; Long-Term Value:</strong></h3> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Aluminium doors also shine in their low-maintenance needs. A simple occasional wipe-down keeps them looking pristine, saving you time and money on upkeep. This, coupled with their exceptional durability and long lifespan, minimizes the need for replacements, further enhancing their cost-effectiveness. While aluminium doors might have a higher initial cost compared to timber options, their long-term value proposition through minimal maintenance and extended lifespan makes them a compelling choice for many homeowners. Ultimately, the best selection depends on your project's budget and desired door features.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h3><strong>The Sustainability &amp; Environmental Benefits Of Aluminium Doors In ZA</strong></h3> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">When it comes to sustainable building materials, aluminium doors deserve a standing ovation. They boast 100% recyclability, making it an eco-friendly building owner’s ideal choice. Did you know that around 70% to 75% of all aluminium ever produced is still in use today? This is possible seeing that aluminium can be recycled almost endlessly without compromising the unique properties and quality of the material. Even South Africa's diverse climate can't diminish its sustainability.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Aluminium's natural corrosion resistance reduces the need for harmful finishes to extend its lifespan, which minimises waste and the environmental footprint of your building. The next time you consider doors for your South African home, choose aluminium. It's not just the smart choice for durability, safety and style, but also a brilliant player in terms of a sustainable future.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h3><strong>Security &amp; Functionality Of Aluminium Doors In South Africa</strong></h3> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong><span style="font-weight: 400;"><img src="/images/uploaded/hand-man-closely-with-the-phone-the-businessman-u-2024-02-01-23-49-22-utc.webp" alt="" width="860" height="573" /></span></strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In South Africa, where security is paramount, aluminium doors stand tall. Their inherent strength starts with the material itself. Aluminium's high strength-to-weight ratio offers superior resistance to forced entry when installed correctly. This resilience is further bolstered by multi-point locking options, engaging the door at multiple points for enhanced security. Additionally, reinforced profiles and security glazing options further deter potential intruders.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">But security isn't just about strength; it's also about convenience. Aluminium doors are renowned for their smooth operation. This is especially important for frequently used doors like building entrances. Modern aluminium doors also seamlessly integrate with automation systems, allowing for keyless entry, remote control access, and even integration with smart home technology, offering convenience and peace of mind.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">It goes without saying that aluminium's versatility shines through in its application range. Whether you need a secure front entrance, a spacious sliding door for seamless indoor-outdoor living, or even interior partitions for flexible room layouts, aluminium doors deliver. Their inherent durability and sleek aesthetics make them suitable for various styles and applications, offering a perfect blend of security and functionality. All of these features make aluminium doors an obvious choice for South African building owners in need of functionality and security.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In conclusion, aluminium doors transcend aesthetics, weaving performance and sustainability into your South African building. Their sleek lines, exceptional durability, and thermal insulation create a haven of comfort, style and safety. Choose from a spectrum of vibrant colours and finishes to match your vision, all while enjoying the peace of mind of near-infinite recyclability and fire resistance. Security is ensured with multi-point locking systems and innovative options like automation.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">While we've explored the many advantages of aluminium doors, the ideal choice for your specific needs and unique style will always be personal. Our team of door experts is here to guide you every step of the way, from initial consultation to professional installation - so feel free to </span><a href="https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/contactus"><span style="font-weight: 400;">contact us today</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">. Want to delve deeper into specific door solutions or gain more home improvement insights? Explore </span><a href="https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/blog"><span style="font-weight: 400;">our collection of informative blog posts!</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> We cover everything from the latest door trends to expert tips on maximizing your home's functionality and style.</span></p>urn:store:1:blog:post:32https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/how-to-fix-and-prevent-swollen-exterior-doorsHow to Fix And Prevent Swollen Exterior Doors<h2><strong><img src="/images/uploaded/blog/doors-direct-blog-image.png" alt="" width="1000" height="686" /></strong></h2> <h2>&nbsp;</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2><strong>A Step-By-Step Guide To Door Swelling Prevention And Repair</strong></h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Are you a sufferer of swollen exterior doors that stick, squeak, or just plainly refuse to close properly? Well you’re not the only one. Swollen exterior doors are a common problem that many homeowners face today. In this essential guide, we’re going to dive into why doors tend to swell and, most importantly, how you can avoid your doors from ever swelling in the first place and how to fix your doors when they do swell.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2><strong>Why Do Exterior Doors Tend To Swell?</strong></h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Wood is a hygroscopic material, which means that it absorbs, and releases,&nbsp; moisture from the surrounding air. When the humidity in your door’s environment is high, it will absorb moisture and swell. When the humidity is low, your door will release moisture and shrink. Humidity coupled with exposure to rain and direct sunlight may cause wooden doors to expand and shrink unevenly, which will cause issues. These situations can also cause your door to warp which we cover in our blog, </span><a href="https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/how-to-fix-prevent-warped-wooden-doors"><span style="font-weight: 400;">How To Fix &amp; Prevent Warped Wooden Doors</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">.</span></p> <h3>&nbsp;</h3> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2><strong>How To Fix Your Swollen Door</strong></h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <ul> <li aria-level="1"> <h3><strong>Check Your Hinges &amp; Threshold</strong></h3> </li> </ul> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Before we start taking your door off and going to work, we should examine your door hinges and door threshold. Ensure that your door isn’t getting stuck due to loose or broken hinges. If your door hinges are loose, tighten them and if they are damaged beyond repair, replace them. Your door’s threshold needs to be properly installed and level with the floor, if this is not the case we suggest reinstalling the threshold if it is in good condition, otherwise you may need to replace it.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <ul> <li aria-level="1"> <h3><strong>Inspect The Damage</strong></h3> </li> </ul> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">If both your hinges and threshold are in working order and your door is still getting stuck or won’t close properly, the first thing you should do is examine the door for any signs of damage. If the door is damaged, you may see signs of warping, cracking and splitting, swelling, or water damage. For a repair guide for warped doors, take a look at our blog, </span><a href="https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/how-to-fix-prevent-warped-wooden-doors"><span style="font-weight: 400;">How To Fix &amp; Prevent Warped Wooden Doors.</span></a></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">If you find that your door is in fact swollen, you need to evaluate how severe the swelling is and where the swelling has taken place. When a door is slightly swollen in, for example, the bottom of the door, a simple sanding might suffice (only up until step 3 of this guide). However, when the swelling is across the entirety of your door, you may need to do some more extensive repairs (follow this entire guide). In extreme cases where your door is severely swollen to the point of compromised structural&nbsp; integrity, you may have to replace the door.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <ul> <li aria-level="1"> <h3><strong>Remove And Initial Sand</strong></h3> </li> </ul> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The next step, after you have found that your door is in fact swollen, is to take it off the hinges for sanding. Don’t forget your safety glasses and facemask, work in a well ventilated and well lit area. Sand the door with a coarse grit in order to remove any finish or paint that might trap moisture within the door. After the paint or finish is removed from the door you may move on to the next step.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">If, however, you’ve evaluated the swelling to be minor and localised, you may sand the swollen area. Ensure that you feather the edges so that it blends into the rest of the door surface. Once the swollen area of the door is levelled, you may move to a finer and finer grain paper to sand the entire door until you’re left with a smooth surface. Even with these minor swelling cases, we recommend you still dry the door before applying a finish or paint (skip step 5 in other words).</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <ul> <li aria-level="1"> <h3><strong>Dry Out The Door</strong></h3> </li> </ul> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In order to dry out your door properly, you need to leave it in a controlled environment (garage or a workshop of some kind) with a dehumidifier. When drying out your door you need to be patient, because in order to avoid additional stress or warping on your door, it needs to dry out gradually. Depending on the wood your door is made of, the amount of water within the door and how well you sanded it, drying can take from a day or two to a few weeks. For an exact estimate we recommend contacting a professional.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">To ensure your swollen door dries properly without over-drying, regular monitoring is essential. Begin by checking the door’s fit in its frame. If it starts to close smoothly without sticking, this is a good indicator that the swelling is reducing. Additionally, use a moisture metre for a more accurate reading of the wood's moisture levels (A stable reading over several days typically signifies that the door has sufficiently dried). Visual inspection is also a viable technique; look for any remaining signs of dampness or discolouration. For a more tactile approach, the door should also feel dry and return to a lighter weight when dried adequately. It's important when in doubt, or when working on a particularly valuable door, to seek advice from a woodworking professional who can provide guidance tailored to your specific situation and ensure the best care for your door.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <ul> <li aria-level="1"> <h3><strong>Final Sanding</strong></h3> </li> </ul> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">After the door has dried sufficiently, especially if the swelling was not minor or localised, you must do a final sand of your door. Start sanding the door with a coarse sandpaper, gradually moving to finer and finer grits while periodically checking the fit of the door - put it back on the hinges every now and then to see how well it fits. It is crucial in this step to sand away any remaining swelling or unevenness on the door’s surface that may have remained after the door has been dried properly. Stop when the surface of the door is even and smooth. If, however, you find yourself sanding away an excessive amount of wood to get to the desired fit or surface finish, then your door may be beyond repair and may need replacing.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <ul> <li aria-level="1"> <h3><strong>Apply Stain And Sealant</strong></h3> </li> </ul> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">After drying and sanding, you need to apply a finish to your door. Remember to ensure that you are completely satisfied with how your door fits as well as how it opens and closes before you start applying your finish. Apply your stain or sealant in even thin coats, allowing each coat to dry properly before adding the next one. How many layers you should apply depends on the finish you’re using. Check the instructions on the product you’re using or contact a professional to find out how many coats you should apply to your door for adequate protection. Remember to reapply your chosen finish as time goes on to further the longevity of your door.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <ul> <li aria-level="1"> <h3><strong>Reinstall</strong></h3> </li> </ul> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Finally, after all the above steps have been completed properly, rehang your door in its frame and check whether it opens and closes properly. Keep in mind that this should not be the first time you test how your door fits - you should be sure to test it before applying your finish (before step 6).</span></p> <h3>&nbsp;</h3> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2><strong>How Can You Avoid Swelling In Your Doors?</strong></h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">To prevent swelling in your exterior doors, it's important to focus on moisture management. Start by finding any sources of water exposure, such as rain or high indoor humidity, and address these issues directly. Using a waterproof sealer (applied regularly as time goes on) or getting a storm door/screen are two viable options for addressing these water sources. Remember to keep an eye on your door in order to identify any signs of wear. You should address any surface damage to your door as soon as possible to avoid moisture from seeping into any imperfections in your door’s finish or seal.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">If you notice fluctuations in your door’s size with changing seasons, it's usually a clear sign of indoor humidity issues. Placing a dehumidifier in the largest room of your house, or in a central location that affects multiple areas, may help stabilise the humidity levels. A high-capacity dehumidifier not only protects your wooden doors from swelling but also creates a healthier living environment by reducing the risk of mould, bacteria, and viruses that thrive in humid environments. Regularly maintaining your doors with these preventative measures will help you protect your doors from damage such as warping and swelling.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In sum, managing swollen exterior doors boils down to regular maintenance and proactive measures. Frequently sealing your doors with a waterproof sealer and monitoring indoor humidity with a dehumidifier are effective measures you can take to prevent swelling. Additionally, addressing any signs of wear or damage ASAP will help ensure that your doors stay in pristine condition for as long as possible. By following steps in this guide, you can maintain the functionality and appearance of your doors. Please feel free to check out our other </span><a href="https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/blog"><span style="font-weight: 400;">blogs on wooden doors</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> for more tips and guides.</span></p>urn:store:1:blog:post:31https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/pre-hung-vs-slab-doors-whats-the-difference-and-which-is-betterPre-hung vs Slab Doors: What's The Difference and Which is Better?<p><img src="/images/uploaded/blog/pre-hung-vs-slab-doors.png" alt="" width="1000" height="686" /></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Are you in the market for a new door and need to make a decision? Or just curious about the difference between pre-hung and slab doors? Either way this blog will help you out!</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Each type of door has its own advantages and disadvantages, at the end of the day it generally comes down to your preferences and what you need. Let us explain the difference between pre-hung and slab doors as well as each type’s pros and cons. Read on for a clearer picture that may help you make a well-informed decision.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h1><strong>What’s The Difference?</strong></h1> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2><strong>Pre-hung Doors</strong></h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Pre-hung doors are usually sold as the “complete package” by manufacturers. These doors come already installed to a door frame. Pre-hung doors are easier to install and are shipped “ready to go” to make the installation job easier and quicker compared to other door types. These doors are generally much heavier to handle - especially when you get a pre-hung exterior door which usually has a heavier/higher-density door core.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2><strong>Slab Doors</strong></h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Slab doors are doors that are supplied without the frame or hinges. They are simply just the door, which means you will have to purchase the frame, hinges, and everything else you may need separately. The installation of these doors may take additional effort and time, but the possibilities open up in terms of design, placement, and customisability.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2><strong>Pros &amp; Cons</strong></h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Like most things in life, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of which door is better, pre-hung or slab. Both types of doors have their own advantages and disadvantages, and the best choice for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Let’s take a look at each door’s pros and cons:</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2><strong>Pre-hung Door Pros</strong></h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>Easy installation: </strong><span style="font-weight: 400;">Seeing that pre-hung doors come pre-installed with hinges and a door frame, it results in a hassle free installation process of the door.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>Shipped with all necessary hardware: </strong><span style="font-weight: 400;">Pre-hung doors come with hinges and a three-sided frame already installed, you just need to pick out your handle, plate and lock (you’ll also need the glass for a door that requires it).</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>Wide Variety: </strong><span style="font-weight: 400;">Pre-hung doors, although limited in some aspects regarding style and customisation, do come in quite a wide variety of different styles and materials to suit your needs.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>Energy efficient and well sealed: </strong><span style="font-weight: 400;">Most pre-hung doors are designed to be energy efficient with features such as weatherstripping and insulation. They are also designed to seal very well - blocking air and water from leaking into your home.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>&nbsp;</h2> <h2><strong>Pre-hung Door Cons</strong></h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>Expensive: </strong><span style="font-weight: 400;">&nbsp;Due to pre-hung doors being made with high-quality materials and coming with pre-installed hardware, they tend to be more expensive than other door options - especially if you look at doors with additional features such as custom materials etc.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>Heavier than other doors: </strong><span style="font-weight: 400;">Seeing that pre-hung doors come pre-assembled with a door frame they can be much heavier than regular doors, thus making them more difficult to handle when you’re DIY-ing alone - that being said, we do recommend hiring a professional to help you install your doors.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>Lacking in terms of design freedom: </strong><span style="font-weight: 400;">Pre-hung doors are generally less flexible in terms of customisation and design than slab doors are.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2><strong>Slab Door Pros</strong></h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>Less Expensive: </strong><span style="font-weight: 400;">Due to the fact that slab doors do not come packaged with any additional hardware, they tend to be cheaper than pre-hung doors.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>Lighter and easier to handle: </strong><span style="font-weight: 400;">Slab doors are purchased as just a door alone, which means that the whole item (the door) is much lighter and easier to handle than pre-hung doors. Certain types of wood weigh more than others, which means that the door you select may still be too heavy to handle by yourself.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>More flexible regarding design and customisation: </strong><span style="font-weight: 400;">Due to slab doors not being constricted by the stain, paint, frame etc. - which is already installed with pre-hung doors - you can do a lot more design and custom work by yourself to ensure that the door matches your home and your vision.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2><strong>Slab Door Cons</strong></h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>More difficult installation process: </strong><span style="font-weight: 400;">The installation of slab doors tends to be more complicated than that of pre-hung doors seeing that you are going to have to do the bulk of the work - from adding a finish to the door to installing the door frame and hardware.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>Requires additional hardware: </strong><span style="font-weight: 400;">Slab doors do not come packaged with any additional hardware. You will thus need to purchase the hardware you need separately, such as: a door frame, door handles and strike plates, door locks, etc.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>May need professional help and modifications: </strong><span style="font-weight: 400;">For those uncomfortable with a DIY project of this scale, you will require professional assistance, which will add to the overall cost of the project. Professional help may also be required when the door slab is too large for your doorway or door frame, as it will have to be cut to size and treated afterwards.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2><strong>Comparison</strong></h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <table> <tbody> <tr> <td> <p><strong>Feature</strong></p> </td> <td> <p><strong>Pre-hung Doors</strong></p> </td> <td> <p><strong>Slab Doors</strong></p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Ease Of Installation</span></p> </td> <td> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Easy</span></p> </td> <td> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Complicated and more difficult</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Hardware</span></p> </td> <td> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Packaged with all necessary hardware (excluding handles and locks)</span></p> </td> <td> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">All hardware needs to be purchased separately</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Variety</span></p> </td> <td> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Moderate variety of styles and materials (lacking in design and customisation variety)</span></p> </td> <td> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Wide variety of styles, materials, design possibilities and customisation options</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Energy Efficient Features</span></p> </td> <td> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Generally energy efficient and sealed</span></p> </td> <td> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">May not be energy efficient or well sealed, depending on your installation</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Cost</span></p> </td> <td> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">More expensive</span></p> </td> <td> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Less expensive</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Weight</span></p> </td> <td> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Heavier and more difficult to handle</span></p> </td> <td> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Lighter and easier to handle</span></p> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Ultimately, the better door is the one that suits your goals, budget and your taste. As established above, both pre-hung and slab doors have their own set of pros and cons which means that both solve unique problems. For example, if you’re looking for a fast and easy job, then the pre-hung would likely be better for you. Similarly, if you want a fully customised door and don't mind the extra effort, a slab door would likely be your best choice.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Regardless of the type of door you select, ensure that you do your research and </span><a href="https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/contactus"><span style="font-weight: 400;">speak to a professional</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> if necessary. This will ensure that you get the right door for your needs. We also&nbsp; recommend that you consider hiring a professional to help you install your door, regardless of the type of door you choose. For more information on door-related topics, please </span><a href="https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/blog"><span style="font-weight: 400;">check out our other blogs</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">.</span></p>urn:store:1:blog:post:30https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/how-to-fix-prevent-warped-wooden-doorsHow To Fix & Prevent Warped Wooden Doors<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><img src="/images/uploaded/September.png" alt="" width="1000" height="667" /></span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Warped wooden doors are a somewhat common issue in many homes. Warped doors can be a frustrating nuisance, but luckily there are ways to fix a warped door, and there are ways to prevent wooden doors from warping in the first place.This blog will serve as your guide for fixing your warped door, and ultimately preventing any warping in the future.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h1>What Causes A Door To Warp?</h1> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>Changes In Humidity: </strong><span style="font-weight: 400;">Wood is a hygroscopic material, which basically means that it absorbs moisture out of the air. When the humidity in a wooden door’s environment is particularly high, it will absorb more moisture and swell. When the humidity is low, the door will lose moisture and shrink. This can cause wooden doors to warp - especially when the humidity in the environment changes from high to low (and vice versa) suddenly.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>Extreme Heat: </strong><span style="font-weight: 400;">Heat causes materials, like wood, to expand. This can cause wooden doors to warp when, for example, one side is exposed to heat while the other side remains cool in comparison, the door will warp towards the hotter side.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>I</strong><strong>mproper Finishing: </strong><span style="font-weight: 400;">What does a good finish do for a wooden door? It adds durability to the door, it makes it look beautiful for longer, but most importantly, it protects from the elements. A wooden door without a proper finish will thus be more exposed to moisture and heat, and will be more prone to warping,</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>Bad Construction With Poor Materials: </strong><span style="font-weight: 400;">Poor construction will leave a door with many weak points that will be exploited by humidity and heat. Using poor wood that isn’t properly seasoned (dried for a sufficient amount of time) will also result in a door that is more prone to warping - properly seasoned wood is also less likely to be attacked by pests and fungi.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>How To Fix Your Warped Doors</h2> <h3>&nbsp;</h3> <h3>Step 1 - Identify The Warp</h3> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Take a look at your door and examine the extent of the warp. It will either be bowing, cupping, or twisting. After you’re done examining your door, remove it from its hinges with a screwdriver and take the door to your working station.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h3>Step 2 - Apply Moisture</h3> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Dampen the side of the door that is convex (curving outward). Use a damp or wet cloth. The moisture should help relax the wood fibres within your door. Leave your door in a cool, dry area for a few days so that it can acclimate to the new moisture level.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h3>Step 3 - Apply Pressure</h3> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Start by laying your door down on a flat, clean, even surface with the concave side (the side curving inward) facing upward. Apply wood glue to the concave side of the door (you only need to apply the glue to the areas affected by the warp). Clamp the door to the surface it is on - these clamps need to be along the warp to apply even pressure. Tighten your clamps until the door straightens out. Allow the door to remain clamped for at least 24 hours so that the glue can set and the door can regain its shape.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h3>Step 4 - Sand &amp; Finish (Optional)</h3> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">When you have given the door enough time to regain its original shape, you can remove the clamps and begin sanding it down to remove any residue left by the glue. Start with a heavy grit and gradually work your way to the finer grit sandpapers to remove any imperfections on the surface of the door. After you have completed sanding down your wooden door, you can paint it or apply a wood finish (which will help protect the door from warping again in the future).</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h3>Step 5 - Hang Your Door</h3> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">After you have completed the steps listed above, you can hang your door on its hinges, ensuring that it swings smoothly.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>How To Prevent Warp In Wooden Doors</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Here are a few tips to avoid your wooden doors from warping in the first place, or to avoid them warping again.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>Use A High-Quality Wood: </strong><span style="font-weight: 400;">When purchasing a wooden door or building one yourself, we recommend investing in quality, well-seasoned wood seeing that it will minimise the risk of warping. Some great types of wood that are more resistant to warping than other woods is; Mahogany, Oak, Maple, Cherry, and Walnut.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>Proper Installation: </strong><span style="font-weight: 400;">Ensure that your wooden door is installed correctly, meaning it needs even and sufficient support and appropriate clearance. If your door has proper support and isn't being damaged every time it opens or closes by hitting a wall. Roof, step etc. it will go much longer without getting a warp since it should keep it’s strength and durability.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>Seal &amp; Finish: </strong><span style="font-weight: 400;">Apply a protective sealant or wood finish to protect your door from moisture infiltration and heat to some extent.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>Control Humidity: </strong><span style="font-weight: 400;">Using a humidifier in dry conditions and a dehumidifier in humid conditions will help you keep a consistent climate with regard to humidity. Inconsistent humidity levels are one of the core causes for warps in wooden doors. This tip is more applicable to internal doors since it will be very difficult to control what your external doors are subject to from the outside environment.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>Regular Maintenance: </strong><span style="font-weight: 400;">It is recommended that you inspect your doors frequently so that you can address any issues promptly. Doing so will ensure that your doors get the attention they need before warping.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>Conclusion</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In sum, warped wooden doors are a common issue that can be caused by a variety of factors, such as changes in humidity, extreme heat, improper finishing, and poor construction. While warped wooden doors can be frustrating, they can be fixed and prevented with the right care and attention. If you have a warped wooden door, the first step is to identify the warp, and follow the steps in this blog to fix it. The steps involve applying moisture, applying pressure, sanding and finishing (optional), and hanging the door. To prevent wooden doors from warping in the first place, it is important to use high-quality wood, ensure proper installation, seal and finish the door, control humidity, and perform regular maintenance. By following these simple tips, you can keep your wooden doors looking and functioning great for as long as possible.</span></p>urn:store:1:blog:post:29https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/safely-removing-paint-from-wooden-doors-a-step-by-step-how-toSafely Removing Paint From Wooden Doors: A Step By Step How-To<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><img src="/images/uploaded/Blog 12_Opt 1.jpg" alt="Image of old paint cracking and peeling off of a wooden surface" width="1000" height="578" /></span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Removing paint from wooden doors does not have to be a very difficult task, just follow the steps explained in this blog and you’ll be able to safely remove any paint from your door so that you can reimagine the style you want it to have. We will cover the do’s and don’ts as well as some rookie mistakes that you can avoid, saving yourself some time and effort.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h1>The Setup: Get Your Prepping Done Before You Start</h1> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The trick to making this a smooth and straightforward task is getting everything you need ready before you start. A lot of the time we start the process without collecting everything we need, which ultimately results in us frantically running around looking for equipment.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>Gear: What Are You Going To Need?</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">First of all, you will need some safety gear. This includes gloves, safety goggles/glasses, a respirator, and long-sleeve clothing. Most people believe that they don’t need safety gear for numerous DIY projects, but please keep in mind that one minor slip-up could result in injury – not to mention what inhaling certain fumes will do to you.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>Prepare The Area: Where Should You Start Your Project</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">If you don’t want to be cleaning stains, paint chips, and sanding dust for the next few weeks, we recommend covering the floor of your chosen work area with a drop cloth. Ensure that your work area is well-ventilated to reduce the risk of breathing in harmful fumes or dust particles. To increase the ventilation of your workspace you can either work outside, use fans and one or more open windows, or if these are not possible, try to leave the room and take breaks often.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>Apply Your Paint Stripper</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Before covering your entire door with a paint stripper, apply it to an inconspicuous area so that you can determine how long you need to leave the paint stripper before scraping off the paint. When this is done you can apply it to the rest of the door. Be sure to read the instructions on your paint thinner container and that you apply it in a thick, even coat.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Let your paint thinner sit for the necessary amount of time. This time does vary depending on the thinner, the paint’s type and the thickness of the coat. Follow the instructions on the paint thinner container and be patient as rushing a task like this will only result in more effort on your part.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>Scrape Off The Paint</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Use a plastic scraper and remove as much paint as you can – we use a plastic scraper as they are less likely to damage your door. If there are any stubborn areas where the plastic scraper simply is not cutting it, try using a metal scraper – just be sure to be careful so that you do not damage the wood underneath the paint. If for some reason there are still areas of paint that won’t come off, use a wire brush, but again, be careful not to damage the wood.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>Sand Your Door: Almost Done!</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">When all of the paint has been removed from your door, sand the door. Start on a coarse grit and move your way up to a smooth grit. This will help remove any imperfections from the surface of the door and will leave you with a perfectly smooth surface. Patience really counts in this step of the project, if we rush sanding, we will be left with an uneven surface texture. Take your time and enjoy the process!</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>Dispose Of Your Paint Stripper: The Last Step</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">It is important to dispose of your paint stripper properly, your paint stripper container should have instructions on how to safely dispose of your paint stripper. We want to ensure that we get rid of our paint stripper safely and properly as it can cause harm to people and the environment.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>What Are The 5 Don’ts Regarding This Type Of Project?</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <ol> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Do not work in an enclosed space. The fumes from paint thinner can very quickly build to the point where a face mask will not keep you from becoming dizzy – or even falling unconscious! Don’t make this rookie mistake and work in a well-ventilated area (and remember your respirator).</span></li> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Do not become aggressive or impatient when sanding the door. We understand that sanding a door down can be tedious, tiring, and time-consuming – especially if you don’t have a belt sander. That being said, don’t make the rookie mistake of rushing the job or sanding too aggressively, as this will only result in damaged wood and a visually unappealing finish or texture on your door.</span></li> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Do not use a paint stripper on lead paint. As we know, lead paint is highly toxic and can cause some serious health problems. The rookie mistake here would be assuming that we can use a paint stripper to deal with lead paint at home without facing health repercussions. Please get the lead paint removed by a professional.</span></li> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Never eat or drink while you are working with a paint stripper or while you are sanding your door. This rookie mistake is the best way to ensure you ingest harmful substances. When you want to eat or drink, please ensure you leave your working area and eat or drink after cleaning your hands thoroughly and removing any contaminated gear.</span></li> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Do not dispose of your paint stripper or your sanding dust down the drain, or in your trashcan. These substances are classified as hazardous waste and should be treated as such. Avoid the rookie mistake of not following proper protocol when disposing of these substances.</span></li> </ol> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>Seeking Professional Advice</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Do not hesitate to get in touch with the Doors Direct team if you have any questions or concerns, we would be more than happy to guide you through whatever you need. Remember that with a little preparation and a little bit of love and care, you can transform your home into something beautiful. If you want your doors and other wooden installations to last, all you need is to follow the appropriate protocol and give them some TLC. Feel free to check out our other blogs if you want more information and tips to assist in future projects, and to keep you safe. </span></p>urn:store:1:blog:post:28https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/choosing-between-internal-sliding-barn-doors-and-internal-bifold-doors-the-perfect-fit-for-your-spaceChoosing Between Internal Sliding Barn Doors and Internal Bifold Doors: The Perfect Fit for Your Space<p><img src="/images/uploaded/Blog - Choosing between internal barn doors or bifold doors.jpg" alt="Image of a wooden sliding door inside a home" width="933" height="1000" /></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>When it comes to interior design, doors play a significant role in defining the overall aesthetics and functionality of a space. Both internal sliding barn doors and internal bifold doors have gained immense popularity due to their unique characteristics and space-saving features. As a homeowner or interior designer, making the right choice between these two stylish options can be a challenging task. In this blog, we will explore the key differences between internal sliding barn doors and internal bifold doors, helping you make an informed decision that suits your home's needs and style.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h1>Which Is Best For You?</h1> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>Internal Sliding Barn Doors</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <ol> <li><strong> Aesthetic Appeal:</strong> Sliding barn doors offer a rustic and charming appeal, adding character and warmth to any space. They are often made from wood or metal, boasting a vintage and traditional feel. These doors are particularly popular in farmhouse-style or industrial-themed interiors.</li> <li><strong> Space-Saving Elegance:</strong> One of the primary advantages of sliding barn doors is their space-saving design. Since they slide along a track mounted above the door frame, they don't require any floor space to swing open or closed. This makes them a fantastic choice for rooms with limited space or where conventional doors might obstruct furniture placement.</li> <li><strong> Versatility:</strong> Internal sliding barn doors can be used in various settings, such as bedroom entryways, closets, pantries, or even as room dividers. Their versatility allows them to adapt to different interior designs and room layouts.</li> <li><strong> Privacy and Sound Control:</strong> While sliding barn doors can offer privacy, they may not provide a perfect sound barrier due to their slight gaps around the edges. If sound isolation is a significant concern, you might need to consider additional measures like weatherstripping or choosing a solid-core door.</li> </ol> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>Internal Bifold Doors</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <ol> <li><strong> Contemporary Elegance:</strong> Bifold doors offer a sleek and modern look, making them a popular choice for contemporary and minimalist interiors. They are available in various materials like wood, glass, and composite, allowing you to choose the perfect match for your decor.</li> <li><strong> Space-Saving Efficiency:</strong> Similar to sliding barn doors, bifold doors are excellent space-savers. They fold inwards and stack against one side of the door frame, maximizing the usable floor area. This feature is especially valuable for small rooms or areas where space optimization is essential.</li> <li><strong> Wide Openings:</strong> Bifold doors are ideal for larger openings, such as closets, laundry rooms, or entertainment spaces. When fully opened, they create a seamless transition between rooms, making them perfect for hosting gatherings or events.</li> <li><strong> Enhanced Sound Control:</strong> Unlike sliding barn doors, bifold doors offer better sound insulation due to their solid construction when closed. This can be advantageous if you need to create private spaces or minimize noise transfer between rooms.</li> </ol> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>Choosing the Perfect Fit</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>To make the right decision between internal sliding barn doors and internal bifold doors, consider the following factors:</p> <ol> <li><strong>Available Space:</strong> Assess the space where the door will be installed and determine which option will best utilize the area without hindering furniture placement or movement.</li> <li><strong>Aesthetics and Interior Design:</strong> Choose the door style that complements your home's interior design and reflects your personal taste.</li> <li><strong>Functionality and Purpose:</strong> Consider the primary purpose of the door. Is it primarily for aesthetics, privacy, or sound control? Choose accordingly.</li> <li><strong>Materials and Durability:</strong> Select high-quality materials that offer durability and longevity, ensuring your chosen door will withstand daily use.</li> <li><strong>Installation and Maintenance:</strong> Evaluate the installation process and maintenance requirements for each door type, and choose the one that aligns with your preferences and capabilities.</li> </ol> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>Conclusion</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Both internal sliding barn doors and internal bifold doors offer unique advantages, making them excellent choices for different spaces and design preferences. We hope this guide has helped you understand the key differences between the two options, allowing you to make an informed decision that best suits your home's needs and style. Whether you prefer the rustic charm of sliding barn doors or the modern elegance of bifold doors, DoorsDirect has a wide selection of premium-quality doors to transform your space. Happy door shopping!</p> <p>&nbsp;</p>urn:store:1:blog:post:27https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/what-are-the-standard-aluminium-window-sizes-in-your-countryWhat Are the Standard Aluminium Window Sizes in Your Country? <p><img src="/images/uploaded/Blog - Different Aluminium Windows &amp; Their Sizes.jpg" alt="" width="1000" height="667" /></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><br />Aluminum windows have become increasingly popular in modern architecture due to their durability, sleek appearance, and energy-efficient properties. They are widely used in residential and commercial buildings, offering various benefits to homeowners and businesses alike. However, before purchasing aluminum windows, it's essential to know the standard sizes available in your country. In this blog post, we will explore the common standard aluminum window sizes in different regions, using metric dimensions.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h1>Different Aluminium Windows &amp; Their Sizes</h1> <p>&nbsp;</p> <ol> <li>Understanding Standard Window Sizing: Standard aluminum window sizes are designed to fit typical window openings without the need for custom manufacturing. These sizes are based on commonly used dimensions in construction and are readily available from various manufacturers and suppliers. Standardization helps streamline the production process and makes it easier for builders and homeowners to find suitable windows for their needs.</li> <li>Common Aluminum Window Sizes: While window sizes can vary based on design preferences and building codes, here are some standard aluminum window sizes commonly found in many countries, presented in metric measurements:</li> </ol> <p>&nbsp;</p> <ol> <li>Single Hung Windows: <ul> <li>Width: 60 cm to 120 cm</li> <li>Height: 90 cm to 180 cm</li> </ul> </li> <li>Double Hung Windows: <ul> <li>Width: 60 cm to 120 cm</li> <li>Height: 90 cm to 180 cm</li> </ul> </li> <li>Sliding Windows: <ul> <li>Width: 90 cm to 210 cm</li> <li>Height: 60 cm to 150 cm</li> </ul> </li> <li>Casement Windows: <ul> <li>Width: 50 cm to 100 cm</li> <li>Height: 60 cm to 180 cm</li> </ul> </li> <li>Awning Windows: <ul> <li>Width: 60 cm to 120 cm</li> <li>Height: 60 cm to 90 cm</li> </ul> </li> </ol> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Note: These are general ranges, and specific sizes may vary between manufacturers.</p> <ol> <li>Custom Window Sizes: While standard sizes are widely available, some buildings might require custom-sized aluminum windows. Non-standard window dimensions may be necessary to fit unique architectural designs or to replace windows in older buildings with non-standard openings. Custom windows can be manufactured by specialized companies, ensuring a perfect fit for any window opening.</li> <li>Considerations When Choosing Window Sizes: Before finalizing the window sizes for your project, consider the following factors:</li> </ol> <ul> <li>Building codes and regulations in your region.</li> <li>Energy efficiency and insulation requirements.</li> <li>Design preferences and aesthetics of the building.</li> <li>Practicality and ease of maintenance.</li> </ul> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>Conclusion</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Choosing the right aluminum window size is essential for both functionality and aesthetics. Standard sizes provide a cost-effective and readily available option for most projects, while custom sizes cater to unique architectural needs. By understanding the standard aluminum window sizes in your country and considering specific requirements, you can make an informed decision and enhance the overall appeal and functionality of your building.</p> <p>Remember, it's always best to consult with window professionals or suppliers who can guide you in selecting the perfect aluminum windows for your specific needs. Whether you're constructing a new building or renovating an existing one, investing in high-quality aluminum windows can significantly improve your space's comfort, energy efficiency, and overall value.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h4>1. Standard Aluminum Window Sizes in South Africa (Metric Dimensions):</h4> <p>&nbsp;</p> <table width="653"> <thead> <tr> <td> <p><strong>Window Type</strong></p> </td> <td> <p><strong>Width Range (cm)</strong></p> </td> <td> <p><strong>Height Range (cm)</strong></p> </td> </tr> </thead> <tbody> <tr> <td> <p>Single Hung</p> </td> <td> <p>60 - 120</p> </td> <td> <p>90 - 180</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td> <p>Double Hung</p> </td> <td> <p>60 - 120</p> </td> <td> <p>90 - 180</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td> <p>Sliding</p> </td> <td> <p>90 - 210</p> </td> <td> <p>60 - 150</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td> <p>Casement</p> </td> <td> <p>50 - 100</p> </td> <td> <p>60 - 180</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td> <p>Awning</p> </td> <td> <p>60 - 120</p> </td> <td> <p>60 - 90</p> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h4>2. Standard Aluminium Window Sizes in the UK (Metric Dimensions):</h4> <p>&nbsp;</p> <table width="653"> <thead> <tr> <td> <p><strong>Window Type</strong></p> </td> <td> <p><strong>Width Range (cm)</strong></p> </td> <td> <p><strong>Height Range (cm)</strong></p> </td> </tr> </thead> <tbody> <tr> <td> <p>Single Hung</p> </td> <td> <p>60 - 120</p> </td> <td> <p>90 - 180</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td> <p>Double Hung</p> </td> <td> <p>60 - 120</p> </td> <td> <p>90 - 180</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td> <p>Sliding</p> </td> <td> <p>90 - 210</p> </td> <td> <p>60 - 150</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td> <p>Casement</p> </td> <td> <p>50 - 100</p> </td> <td> <p>60 - 180</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td> <p>Awning</p> </td> <td> <p>60 - 120</p> </td> <td> <p>60 - 90</p> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h4>3. Standard Aluminum Window Sizes in the USA (Imperial Dimensions):</h4> <p>&nbsp;</p> <table width="653"> <thead> <tr> <td> <p><strong>Window Type</strong></p> </td> <td> <p><strong>Width Range (inches)</strong></p> </td> <td> <p><strong>Height Range (inches)</strong></p> </td> </tr> </thead> <tbody> <tr> <td> <p>Single Hung</p> </td> <td> <p>24 - 48</p> </td> <td> <p>36 - 72</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td> <p>Double Hung</p> </td> <td> <p>24 - 48</p> </td> <td> <p>36 - 72</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td> <p>Sliding</p> </td> <td> <p>36 - 84</p> </td> <td> <p>24 - 60</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td> <p>Casement</p> </td> <td> <p>20 - 40</p> </td> <td> <p>24 - 72</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td> <p>Awning</p> </td> <td> <p>24 - 48</p> </td> <td> <p>24 - 36</p> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h4>4. Standard Aluminium Window Sizes in India (Metric Dimensions):</h4> <p>&nbsp;</p> <table width="653"> <thead> <tr> <td> <p><strong>Window Type</strong></p> </td> <td> <p><strong>Width Range (cm)</strong></p> </td> <td> <p><strong>Height Range (cm)</strong></p> </td> </tr> </thead> <tbody> <tr> <td> <p>Single Hung</p> </td> <td> <p>60 - 120</p> </td> <td> <p>90 - 180</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td> <p>Double Hung</p> </td> <td> <p>60 - 120</p> </td> <td> <p>90 - 180</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td> <p>Sliding</p> </td> <td> <p>90 - 210</p> </td> <td> <p>60 - 150</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td> <p>Casement</p> </td> <td> <p>50 - 100</p> </td> <td> <p>60 - 180</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td> <p>Awning</p> </td> <td> <p>60 - 120</p> </td> <td> <p>60 - 90</p> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h4>5. Standard Aluminum Window Sizes in Australia (Metric Dimensions):</h4> <p>&nbsp;</p> <table width="653"> <thead> <tr> <td> <p><strong>Window Type</strong></p> </td> <td> <p><strong>Width Range (cm)</strong></p> </td> <td> <p><strong>Height Range (cm)</strong></p> </td> </tr> </thead> <tbody> <tr> <td> <p>Single Hung</p> </td> <td> <p>60 - 120</p> </td> <td> <p>90 - 180</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td> <p>Double Hung</p> </td> <td> <p>60 - 120</p> </td> <td> <p>90 - 180</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td> <p>Sliding</p> </td> <td> <p>90 - 210</p> </td> <td> <p>60 - 150</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td> <p>Casement</p> </td> <td> <p>50 - 100</p> </td> <td> <p>60 - 180</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td> <p>Awning</p> </td> <td> <p>60 - 120</p> </td> <td> <p>60 - 90</p> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Please note that the ranges mentioned in the tables are approximate and may vary slightly between different manufacturers and suppliers. Always check with local window suppliers for the most accurate and up-to-date information.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p>urn:store:1:blog:post:26https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/cracking-the-code-why-wooden-doors-crack-and-how-to-prevent-itCracking the Code: Why Wooden Doors Crack and How to Prevent It<p><img src="/images/uploaded/Blog 11_ man-filling-cracks-scratches-dents-by-wax-in-the-2022-11-29-20-24-14-utc.jpg" alt="Image of a man filling in cracks on a wooden surface with wax." width="1000" height="666" /></p> <p style="line-height: 1.4;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="line-height: 1.4;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="line-height: 1.4;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Nothing quite compares to a beautiful solid wooden door, but much like your pet fern that needs some TLC to thrive, your amazing wooden door needs a little lovin' too!</span></p> <p style="line-height: 1.4;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">In this blog, we’ll be looking at why wooden doors crack, what role humidity plays in the whole process, installation techniques that may prevent cracking, some maintenance tips as well as a step-by-step guide to repairing cracks when they do occur.</span></p> <p style="line-height: 1.4;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="line-height: 1.4;">&nbsp;</p> <h1 style="line-height: 1.4;">The Culprit Unveiled: Understanding the Causes of Wooden Door Cracks</h1> <p style="line-height: 1.4;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="line-height: 1.4;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Amidst the charm of wooden doors lies an inconspicuous culprit – moisture. Humidity, the unseen saboteur, can quietly wreak havoc on our beloved doors. Wood undergoes a delicate dance of expansion and contraction with changing seasons, making it susceptible to cracks.</span></p> <p style="line-height: 1.4;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="line-height: 1.4;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">During humid months, wood swells as it absorbs moisture from the air, while dry conditions cause shrinkage and stress on the door's structure. This repetitive cycle takes a toll, resulting in unsightly cracks.</span></p> <p style="line-height: 1.4;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="line-height: 1.4;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Understanding humidity's influence is key to preventing these cracks. By controlling indoor moisture and ensuring proper ventilation, we shield our wooden doors from harm, preserving their allure for generations to come.</span></p> <h2 style="line-height: 1.4;">&nbsp;</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>Moisture Matters: How Humidity Affects Wooden Doors</h2> <p style="line-height: 1.4;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="line-height: 1.4;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Humidity, an unpredictable foe, silently assaults your wooden doors, threatening their integrity. As moisture levels fluctuate, the wood expands and contracts, potentially leading to cracks and warping.</span></p> <p style="line-height: 1.4;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="line-height: 1.4;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">In hot, humid weather, doors may swell, sticking or rubbing against frames. Conversely, in dry conditions, contraction causes unsightly gaps affecting aesthetics and insulation.</span></p> <p style="line-height: 1.4;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="line-height: 1.4;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Fear not! Armed with knowledge and strategies, shield your doors from humidity's mischief. We'll explore effective measures, from sealants to dehumidifiers, maintaining an ideal moisture balance. Master this battle, and your wooden doors will endure, remaining strong and beautiful for years to come.</span></p> <p style="line-height: 1.4;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="line-height: 1.4;">&nbsp;</p> <h2 style="line-height: 1.4;">Nailing Down the Issue: Proper Installation Techniques</h2> <p style="line-height: 1.4;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="line-height: 1.4;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">When it comes to the longevity and stability of your wooden doors, proper installation lays the foundation for a crack-free future. This section delves into the essential aspects of installing wooden doors with precision and finesse.</span></p> <p style="line-height: 1.4;">&nbsp;</p> <ul> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><strong>The Art of Alignment:</strong><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Achieve a flawless fit by ensuring the door and frame are perfectly level and plumb, reducing the risk of cracks over time.</span></li> </ul> <p style="line-height: 1.4;">&nbsp;</p> <ul> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><strong>Say No to Over-tightening:</strong><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Avoid over-tightening screws and hinges to prevent structural imbalances, which can lead to warping and cracking.</span></li> </ul> <p style="line-height: 1.4;">&nbsp;</p> <ul> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><strong>Mind the Gaps:</strong><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Properly seal gaps between the door and frame with weatherstripping or insulation to enhance energy efficiency and minimize moisture entry, a common cause of wooden door cracks.</span></li> </ul> <p style="line-height: 1.4;">&nbsp;</p> <ul> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><strong>All About Expansion Gaps:</strong><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Incorporate appropriate expansion gaps during installation to allow the door to breathe and adapt naturally to changes in humidity and temperature, avoiding stress-induced cracks.</span></li> </ul> <p style="line-height: 1.4;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="line-height: 1.4;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Master these installation techniques to ensure your wooden doors stand strong and steadfast against the test of time.</span></p> <h2 style="line-height: 1.4;">&nbsp;</h2> <h2 style="line-height: 1.4;"><br />Crack Prevention 101: Proactive Measures for Happy Wooden Doors</h2> <p style="line-height: 1.4;">&nbsp;</p> <ul> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><strong>Embrace Regular Cleaning:</strong><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Dust and wipe your wooden doors regularly with a soft, damp cloth, avoiding harsh chemical cleaners that can damage the wood's surface.</span></li> </ul> <p style="line-height: 1.4;">&nbsp;</p> <ul> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><strong>Seal the Deal with Varnish or Paint:</strong><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Apply protective varnish or paint to shield your doors from moisture and temperature changes, reducing the risk of cracks.</span></li> </ul> <p style="line-height: 1.4;">&nbsp;</p> <ul> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><strong>Weather Stripping for the Win: </strong><span style="font-weight: 400;">Install weather stripping around the edges to create an extra barrier against the elements, minimizing the likelihood of cracks.</span></li> </ul> <p style="line-height: 1.4;">&nbsp;</p> <ul> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><strong>Mind the Humidity:</strong><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Use a dehumidifier in humid environments and a humidifier in dry climates to regulate moisture levels, preventing excessive wood expansion and contraction.</span></li> </ul> <p style="line-height: 1.4;">&nbsp;</p> <ul> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><strong>Routine Inspections:</strong><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Regularly check for damage or wear, addressing issues like loose hinges or small cracks promptly to prevent worsening.</span></li> </ul> <p style="line-height: 1.4;">&nbsp;</p> <ul> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><strong>Gentle Handling:</strong><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Treat your wooden doors with care, avoiding slamming or hanging heavy objects to prevent unnecessary stress that could lead to cracks.</span></li> </ul> <p style="line-height: 1.4;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="line-height: 1.4;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Follow these tips to give your wooden doors the tender loving care they deserve, ensuring they stay strong, beautiful, and crack-free for years to come.</span></p> <p style="line-height: 1.4;">&nbsp;</p> <h2 style="line-height: 1.4;"><br />Sealing the Cracks: A Step-by-Step Guide to Fixing Door Cracks</h2> <p style="line-height: 1.4;">&nbsp;</p> <ul> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><strong>Assess the Damage:</strong><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Examine the cracks on your door to determine the extent of the problem.</span></li> </ul> <p style="line-height: 1.4;">&nbsp;</p> <ul> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><strong>Gather Your Tools:</strong><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Get all the necessary tools, including wood filler, putty knife, sandpaper, and paint.</span></li> </ul> <p style="line-height: 1.4;">&nbsp;</p> <ul> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><strong>Clean and Prep:</strong><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Clean the cracks and surrounding area, ensuring it's free from dust and debris.</span></li> </ul> <p style="line-height: 1.4;">&nbsp;</p> <ul> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><strong>Apply Wood Filler:</strong><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Fill the cracks with wood filler, using a putty knife to spread it evenly.</span></li> </ul> <p style="line-height: 1.4;">&nbsp;</p> <ul> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><strong>Sand it Smooth:</strong><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Once the filler dries, sand the repaired area until it's smooth and level with the door surface.</span></li> </ul> <p style="line-height: 1.4;">&nbsp;</p> <ul> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><strong>Paint or Varnish:</strong><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Match the door's finish with paint or varnish to seamlessly blend the repaired section.</span></li> </ul> <p style="line-height: 1.4;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="line-height: 1.4;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Voila! Your door is now crack-free and looking fabulous once again. Enjoy the satisfaction of a job well done!&nbsp;</span></p> <h2 style="line-height: 1.4;">&nbsp;</h2> <h2 style="line-height: 1.4;"><br />Conclusion</h2> <p style="line-height: 1.4;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="line-height: 1.4;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">In conclusion, by understanding the role of humidity and embracing the right prevention techniques, you can protect your wooden doors from the dreaded cracks. Proper installation, routine inspections, and gentle handling go a long way in preserving their beauty and longevity. And should cracks occur, fear not! Our step-by-step guide will equip you to fix them like a pro. So, go ahead and give your wooden doors the TLC they deserve, and they'll reward you with timeless charm and a crack-free future.</span></p> <p style="line-height: 1.4;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="line-height: 1.4;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Doors too far gone or just time for a change, </span><a href="https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/interior-doors-2"><span style="font-weight: 400;">visit us to view our full range of doors</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">.</span></p> <p style="line-height: 1.4;">&nbsp;</p>urn:store:1:blog:post:25https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/to-match-or-not-to-match-answering-the-big-questions-on-interior-doorsTo Match or Not to Match: Answering the Big Questions on Interior Doors<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><img src="/images/uploaded/Blog 10_narrow-corridor-with-doors-2022-06-14-16-13-49-utc.jpg" alt="Narrow Corridor with wooden doors photo" width="1000" height="666" /></span></p> <p style="line-height: 1.5;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="line-height: 1.5;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Deciding on what <strong>style of door</strong> to use throughout your home can be daunting, and truthfully, the wrong choice can affect the overall look and feel of your interior. </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">Should they match your floors? Should they match nearby cabinets? Is it acceptable to use different styles of handles?&nbsp;</span></p> <p style="line-height: 1.5;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">In this comprehensive guide, we’ll look at a few important aspects to keep in mind when making your choice.</span></p> <p style="line-height: 1.5;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="line-height: 1.5;">&nbsp;</p> <h1 style="line-height: 1.5;">Should Interior Doors Match Your Flooring?</h1> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="line-height: 1.5;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">The decision on whether interior doors should match the flooring is ultimately a matter of personal preference and style. It is not necessary for these elements to match exactly, but they should harmoniously coexist in your space.</span></p> <p style="line-height: 1.5;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="line-height: 1.5;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">But here are a few things to keep in mind:</span></p> <ul> <li aria-level="1"><strong>Style: </strong><span style="font-weight: 400;">The style of your <strong>interior doors</strong> doesn't need to match your flooring exactly but should complement it. This could mean a sleek, modern door style with contemporary tiles, or a rustic wooden door with traditional hardwood flooring.</span></li> </ul> <ul> <li aria-level="1"><strong>Colour / Tone: </strong><span style="font-weight: 400;">Again, your door and floor don't need to match in colour or tone, but they should harmonize. A deep, dark wood door might contrast beautifully with light wood or laminate flooring, or a white door could provide a crisp, fresh contrast to darker tones.</span></li> </ul> <ul> <li aria-level="1"><strong>Material / Finish: </strong><span style="font-weight: 400;">While not essential, matching the material or finish of your doors and flooring can create a cohesive look. For example, matte doors could pair well with matte finished floors, or polished wood doors might complement similarly polished wooden floors.</span></li> </ul> <p style="line-height: 1.5;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="line-height: 1.5;">&nbsp;</p> <h2 style="line-height: 1.5;">Should All the Doors in Your House Match?</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="line-height: 1.5;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Uniform doors can create a harmonious aesthetic, especially in open-concept designs. However, different doors serve various purposes and have various privacy requirements. The front door should prioritize solidity and privacy, while the back door can incorporate glass for natural light.&nbsp;</span></p> <p style="line-height: 1.5;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Maintaining a cohesive look between interior and exterior doors is desirable, but consider differentiating room doors based on functions like walk-in cupboards or pantries. This adds visual interest and practicality to your design scheme. Ultimately, the decision on door uniformity depends on personal preference and the style of your home.</span></p> <p style="line-height: 1.5;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="line-height: 1.5;">&nbsp;</p> <h2 style="line-height: 1.5;">Should Doors and Trim Be the Same Colour?</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="line-height: 1.5;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">When it comes to doors and trim, traditional design rules often suggest matching them for a harmonious and cohesive look. This is particularly common in more formal or traditionally styled homes.</span></p> <p style="line-height: 1.5;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">However, contemporary design trends have seen a shift towards contrasting colours for doors and trim. A bold black door paired with crisp white trim, for instance, can create an eye-catching contrast that adds a modern touch to your space.</span></p> <p style="line-height: 1.5;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">In essence, the choice between matching or contrasting doors and trim should be guided by your personal taste and the overall style of your home. Don’t be afraid to experiment and think outside the box!</span></p> <p style="line-height: 1.5;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="line-height: 1.5;">&nbsp;</p> <h2 style="line-height: 1.5;">Should Door Handles Match Throughout the House?</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="line-height: 1.5;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Door handles may seem small, but they have the potential to greatly impact the overall appearance of your interior spaces. Many homeowners prefer a consistent approach, opting for the same door handles throughout their house to achieve a unified and cohesive aesthetic. However, here are some considerations to ponder when selecting your interior handles:</span></p> <ul> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><strong>External vs. Internal:</strong><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Introducing a subtle variation in your interior door handles compared to your front or back door can add an intriguing element of visual interest.</span></li> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><strong>Function:</strong><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Keep the door's function in mind when choosing handles. Entry and exit doors require enhanced security and may necessitate a sturdier handle and lock system, while interior doors prioritize aesthetics over high-level security. For pantry or cupboard doors, a matching knob-style handle can be an appealing choice.</span></li> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><strong>Design and Finish:</strong><span style="font-weight: 400;"> While maintaining a consistent finish is generally recommended, it's essential to strike a balance. Avoid straying too far from one style and material, as this can yield the most pleasing results in terms of overall design cohesion.</span></li> </ul> <p style="line-height: 1.5;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">By considering these factors, you can make informed decisions about door handles that enhance the visual appeal and functionality of your interior spaces.</span></p> <p style="line-height: 1.5;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="line-height: 1.5;">&nbsp;</p> <h2 style="line-height: 1.5;">Conclusion</h2> <p style="line-height: 1.5;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="line-height: 1.5;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">In conclusion, when it comes to coordinating elements like doors, floors, trim, and handles, there are no hard and fast rules—only guidelines and ideas to spark your creativity. Your home is your canvas, and you are the artist. Whether you prefer a uniform, harmonious look or love to mix and match, the ultimate goal should always be to create a space that reflects your personality, taste, and lifestyle. Enjoy the process, and don’t forget to have fun along the way.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/interior-doors-2"><span style="font-weight: 400;">View our full range of interior doors today!</span></a></h2> <p>&nbsp;</p>urn:store:1:blog:post:24https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/how-to-finish-exterior-doors-in-south-africaHow to Finish Exterior Doors in South Africa<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="/images/uploaded/blog/AdobeStock_216973035.jpeg" alt="Photo of someone staining or sealing a door with a large natural hair paint brush." width="1000" height="667" /></span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The exterior door of your home is not only an essential element for security but also a crucial aspect of your home's overall appearance. With South Africa's diverse climate, it is essential to choose the right finishing method for your exterior doors to ensure durability and long-lasting beauty. In this blog, we will discuss various finishing techniques for exterior doors in South Africa, ensuring you make the best choice for your home.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">Preparing Wooden Doors for Finishing</span></h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Before starting the finishing process, it is crucial to prepare your wooden door correctly. Follow these steps for optimal results:</span></p> <p><strong>Sand the door:</strong><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Begin by sanding the door using around 180 to 220 grit sandpaper to remove any imperfections and open up the fibres. Do not go too fine, or you may close up the fibres and prevent your finish from adhering properly.</span></p> <p><strong>Clean the door:</strong><span style="font-weight: 400;"> After sanding, use a tack cloth or vacuum cleaner to remove all dust and debris from the surface.</span></p> <p><strong>Apply a wood conditioner:</strong><span style="font-weight: 400;"> For doors made of porous woods like pine, a pre-stain wood conditioner is recommended to prevent blotchy absorption of stains or finishes.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">The Best Finishes for Exterior Wooden Doors</span></h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Selecting the appropriate finish for your exterior wooden door is crucial for its durability and aesthetics. The two main categories of finishes are:</span></p> <p><strong>Stains and clear topcoats:</strong><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Stains add colour to the wood while allowing the natural grain to show through. They require a clear topcoat for protection against the elements.</span></p> <p><strong>Paints: </strong><span style="font-weight: 400;">Paint provides a solid colour and a protective barrier, but it hides the wood grain. High-quality exterior paints are ideal for doors exposed to the elements.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">Finishing Guide for Stains and Clear Top Coats</span></h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">If you prefer a natural look for your wooden door, follow these steps to apply stains and clear topcoats:</span></p> <p><strong>Apply the stain:</strong><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Choose an exterior-grade stain and apply it evenly with a brush, following the wood grain. Wipe off any excess stain with a clean cloth.</span></p> <p><strong>Allow the stain to dry:</strong><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for drying time, typically 24 hours.</span></p> <p><strong>Apply a clear topcoat:</strong><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Use a high-quality exterior-grade polyurethane or spar varnish, applying multiple thin coats to build up protection.</span></p> <p><strong>Sand between coats:</strong><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Lightly sand with 220 or 240-grit sandpaper between coats to ensure proper adhesion.</span></p> <p><strong>Allow the finish to cure: </strong><span style="font-weight: 400;">Allow the final coat to dry and cure for at least 72 hours before installation.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">Finishing Guide for Paint</span></h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">For a more durable and opaque finish, follow these steps to paint your exterior door:</span></p> <p><strong>Apply a primer: </strong><span style="font-weight: 400;">Use a high-quality exterior primer to provide a base for the paint to adhere to.</span></p> <p><strong>Allow the primer to dry:</strong><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for drying time, typically 24 hours.</span></p> <p><strong>Apply the paint:</strong><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Use high-quality exterior paint and apply at least two coats, allowing each coat to dry before applying the next.</span></p> <p><strong>Allow the paint to cure: </strong><span style="font-weight: 400;">Give the paint at least 72 hours to cure before installation, depending on the type of paint used.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">How to Finish High-Exposure Doors</span></h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">If your exterior door is exposed to harsh weather conditions or intense sunlight, you need to take extra precautions to protect it. Follow these tips for finishing high-exposure doors:</span></p> <p><strong>Choose a high-quality finish:</strong><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Opt for marine-grade finishes or exterior-grade paints that offer UV protection and resistance to moisture.</span></p> <p><strong>Apply additional coats:</strong><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Increase the number of coats of topcoat or paint to provide added protection.</span></p> <p><strong>Install weatherstripping</strong><span style="font-weight: 400;">: Add weatherstripping to seal gaps around the door, preventing moisture from seeping in.</span></p> <p><strong>Perform regular maintenance:</strong><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Check your door periodically for signs of wear or damage and reapply the finish as needed. This may include light sanding and recoating with a clear topcoat or paint to maintain the door's appearance and protection.</span></p> <p><strong>Consider adding an overhang or awning: </strong><span style="font-weight: 400;">Installing an overhang or awning above your door can shield it from direct sunlight and rain, reducing the risk of damage due to exposure.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">Protecting Your Exterior Doors in South Africa</span></h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Finishing an exterior door in South Africa requires careful consideration of the local climate and the specific needs of your door. By following this guide and selecting the appropriate finish for your door, you can ensure its durability and long-lasting beauty. Remember that proper preparation, application, and regular maintenance are crucial to protect your investment and keep your exterior door looking its best for years to come.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">You can </span><a href="https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/exterior-doors-2"><span style="font-weight: 400;">shop our full range of exterior wooden doors here</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, or </span><a href="https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/sealants"><span style="font-weight: 400;">browse our range of speciality wood sealants here</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> for all your needs.&nbsp;</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p>urn:store:1:blog:post:23https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/interior-vs-exterior-doors-whats-the-differenceInterior vs Exterior Doors - What's The Difference?<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="/images/uploaded/blog/pexels-curtis-adams-5502213.jpg" alt="Interior view of open exterior double doors with large glass panes in the centre." width="1000" height="666" /></span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Doors are an essential element of any home or building. They serve as a passage between rooms, provide privacy and security, and form an integral part of your home’s aesthetic appeal. There are two main types of doors, exterior and interior, and while they may look similar there are key differences between the two you need to be aware of.&nbsp;</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">Different Functions</span></h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The primary difference between interior and exterior doors is their function. Interior doors are designed to separate rooms within a building, while exterior doors are meant to provide an entry point to the building from the outside. Interior doors are typically thinner and lighter compared to exterior doors, which are heavier and sturdier. This is because exterior doors need to withstand harsh weather conditions and provide security, whereas interior doors are more about aesthetics and privacy.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Exterior doors often include barriers against the outside weather, such as a threshold and weatherstripping, to prevent moisture and drafts from entering the building. They may also have a peephole, a deadbolt, and a handle with a lock for added security. On the other hand, interior doors don't require these features and may have simpler knobs or handles for easy opening and closing.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">Different Costs</span></h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Another significant difference between interior and exterior doors is their cost. Exterior doors are typically more expensive than interior doors because of their added features and sturdier construction. Exterior doors require a more robust frame, hinges, and hardware to withstand weather and provide security. They may also require special finishes or treatments to prevent warping, rotting, or fading due to exposure to the elements.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Interior doors, on the other hand, can be made from less expensive materials and may not require as much hardware or finishing. However, the cost of interior doors can vary based on their design, material, and finish. For example, solid wood doors may be more expensive than hollow core doors, and custom-designed doors may cost more than standard sizes.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">Different Hardware</span></h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Interior and exterior doors also differ in their hardware. Exterior doors require more heavy-duty hardware to withstand the elements and provide security. This includes a sturdy lock, handle, and deadbolt, as well as hinges and a weather-resistant threshold. Exterior doors may also have a peephole, kickplate, or door knocker for added functionality.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Interior doors, on the other hand, don't require as much hardware and may have simple knobs or handles. However, interior doors can still have a range of hardware options, including decorative knobs, levers, hinges, and latches. The choice of hardware can also affect the overall look and feel of the interior doors, allowing for customization to match the décor of a room.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">Different Materials</span></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Interior and exterior doors can be made from a variety of materials, but they differ in the type of materials used. Exterior doors are typically made from more durable and weather-resistant materials, such as wood, fibreglass, or steel. These materials can withstand exposure to the elements, resist warping or rotting, and provide added security.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Wooden exterior doors are a popular choice for their aesthetic appeal and natural durability. They can be customized with a range of finishes, stains, or paint colours to match the style of the building. Wooden exterior doors also provide a classic look that adds value to a home and can last for years with proper maintenance.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Interior doors, on the other hand, can be made from a wider range of materials, including wood, fibreglass, steel, or even glass. Interior doors are often designed with aesthetics in mind, allowing for a range of styles, finishes, and textures to match the décor of a room. Wooden interior doors are also a popular choice for their warmth and natural beauty, as well as their ability to reduce noise and provide insulation.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">Benefits of Wooden Exterior and Interior Doors</span></h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">While there are many materials to choose from for both interior and exterior doors, wooden doors offer several benefits that make them a popular choice. Here are some benefits of wooden exterior and interior doors:</span></p> <p><strong>Durability: </strong><span style="font-weight: 400;">Wooden doors are durable and can withstand the wear and tear of everyday use. With proper care and maintenance, wooden doors can last for many years, making them a long-term investment.</span></p> <p><strong>Energy Efficiency:</strong><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Wooden doors provide natural insulation, helping to reduce heat loss and lower energy bills. They also reduce noise transmission, making them ideal for use in bedrooms, home offices, and other quiet spaces.</span></p> <p><strong>Aesthetics:</strong><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Wooden doors have a natural beauty that can enhance the overall look and feel of a home or building. With a range of finishes, stains, and colours to choose from, wooden doors can complement any décor style.</span></p> <p><strong>Value:</strong><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Wooden doors can add value to a home or building by increasing its resale value, while they may be expensive upfront they yield a positive return on investment over time.&nbsp;</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">Choosing the Right Exterior and Exterior Doors for Your Needs&nbsp;</span></h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Understanding the differences between interior and exterior doors is essential when selecting doors for your home or building. Exterior doors require added durability, security, and weather resistance, while interior doors focus on aesthetics and privacy.&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Wooden doors offer several benefits, including durability, energy efficiency, aesthetics, and value, making them a popular choice for both interior and exterior doors. When choosing doors for your home or building, consider the function, cost, hardware, and materials to ensure that you select the right doors for your needs.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">You can view our </span><a href="https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/exterior-doors-2"><span style="font-weight: 400;">full range of wooden exterior doors here</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, and our </span><a href="https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/interior-doors-2"><span style="font-weight: 400;">range of wooden interior doors here</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p>urn:store:1:blog:post:22https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/how-to-care-for-exterior-doors-in-south-africaHow to Care for Exterior Doors in South Africa <p><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="/images/uploaded/blog/large-AdobeStock_313518044.jpeg" alt="Close up shot of raw wooden double door with both doors closed and light shining on the lower half." width="1000" height="666" /></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Exterior doors are an essential part of any home's façade, and in South Africa, where the climate can be harsh and unpredictable, proper care and maintenance are critical to ensure their longevity and functionality. Neglecting your exterior doors can lead to damage, rot, and reduced energy efficiency, which can all result in costly repairs or replacements. Therefore, in this blog, we'll explore how to care for exterior doors in South Africa, including treating, cleaning, and repairing wood doors and choosing the best paint for the job.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">How to Treat Exterior Wood Doors</span></h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Wooden doors are a popular choice for exterior doors due to their aesthetic appeal, durability, and natural insulation. However, they require regular maintenance to keep them in good condition. It’s suggested that you regularly dust your doors, thoroughly clean them every few months, reseal the door if its top coat becomes worn out and refinish it every 3 to 5 years, or whenever the finish becomes worn. To refinish a wooden door, follow these steps:&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Remove all the hardware - it can be easier to work the door in these initial steps by unhanging it completely. Thoroughly clean and then sand the existing finish off of the door, removing any old flakes of wood. Avoid going too fine with the grit of your sandpaper, or it may prevent the finish from sticking later. Small, hard-to-reach crevices and mouldings may require the careful use of a sharp scraper.&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Re-hang the door if you removed it, first sealing the top and bottom edges, and then apply your first coat of sealant. Apply the finish evenly, using a high-quality brush or roller, and allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next. Depending on the product, you may need to apply two or three coats, allowing sufficient drying time between each coat. Avoid applying too thick of a layer, as it can cause runs and drips, and sand between coats to ensure a smooth and even finish.</span><span style="font-weight: 400;"><br /></span><span style="font-weight: 400;">Wait a day for it to dry, then apply your second coat. After another day of drying, all you need to do is reinstall the hardware. It’s usually a good idea to give that some oil too.&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">You can avoid having to repeat this process as often by maintaining the door’s top coat - avoid letting it wear down to the base layer by lightly sanding and resealing regularly (depending on how exposed the door is),</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">When treating your exterior wood doors, it's essential to choose the right products for your needs. Some wood preservatives contain toxic chemicals that can harm the environment and your health, so opt for eco-friendly products that are safe for you and the environment. Additionally, look for products that offer UV protection, as prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause wood to fade, crack, and warp.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">How to Clean Exterior Wood Doors</span></h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Exterior wood doors require regular cleaning to maintain their appearance and prevent damage. To clean your wood doors, mix a solution of warm water and mild soap, and using a soft-bristled brush or sponge, gently scrub the door's surface, including the corners and edges. Avoid using harsh cleaners or abrasive materials, as they can scratch or strip the wood's stain or finish. After cleaning, rinse the door with a hose or clean water and allow it to dry completely. Avoid using a power washer, as the high pressure can damage the wood or force water into the joints and cause rot.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">It's recommended to clean your exterior stained wood doors at least twice a year, depending on the climate and exposure to dirt and pollutants. Additionally, inspect the door regularly for signs of damage, such as cracks, peeling, or discolouration, and address them promptly to prevent further deterioration.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">How to Repair Cracks in Exterior Wood Doors</span></h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Cracks or splits in exterior wood doors can compromise their structural integrity, reduce insulation, and allow moisture and pests to enter. Therefore, repairing them promptly is crucial to prevent further damage. To repair cracks in exterior wood doors, start by removing any loose or damaged wood using a chisel or sandpaper. Next, fill the crack with wood filler, using a putty knife or a spatula, and smooth the surface evenly. Allow the filler to dry completely, following the manufacturer's instructions, and sand the surface to match the door's texture. If the crack is severe or extends to the door's core, you may need to replace the affected section or the entire door.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">When repairing cracks in exterior wood doors, it's important to use high-quality wood filler that can withstand exposure to moisture, temperature changes, and sunlight. Additionally, choose a filler that matches the door's wood type and colour, or opt for a clear filler if you're staining or painting the door.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">The Best Finish/Paint for Exterior Doors</span></h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The finish is the topcoat that goes on top of the door and provides protection against weathering, scratches, and stains. </span><span style="font-weight: 400;"><br /></span><span style="font-weight: 400;"><br /></span><span style="font-weight: 400;">Enamel paint provides the absolute best protection for your exterior doors, but hides the natural wood grain and finish of the door. The next best option is a clear, high-quality varnish or polyurethane top coat. These finishes are transparent and allow the natural grain and colour of the wood to show through, enhancing the door's beauty and character.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Choose a finish that offers UV protection, as prolonged exposure to sunlight, can cause the paint to fade and peel. You can also opt for finishes that contain fungicides and mildewcides, as they can prevent the growth of mould and mildew, which can cause rot and discolouration.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">Caring for Your Exterior Doors the Right Way</span></h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Caring for exterior doors in South Africa requires regular maintenance, including treating, cleaning, and repairing wooden doors, and choosing the right type of finish for the job. By following these tips and best practices, you can ensure that your exterior doors look great, function properly, and provide lasting protection against the harsh South African climate.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">If your door needs a new top coat or complete refinishing, you can browse our </span><a href="https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/sealants"><span style="font-weight: 400;">full range of wood sealants here</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">. Or, if your doors are in need of replacement, or you just want to freshen up your house’s look, see our </span><a href="https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/exterior-doors-2"><span style="font-weight: 400;">full range of wooden exterior doors here.</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">&nbsp;<br /><br /><br /></span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p>urn:store:1:blog:post:21https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/best-materials-woods-exterior-doorsBest Materials and Woods for Exterior Doors <p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="/images/uploaded/blog/the-facade-of-a-brick-building-with-wooden-door-2022-06-14-16-05-54-utc.jpg" alt="" width="1000" height="666" /><br /><br />Choosing the right material and wood for your exterior door is crucial in ensuring that it's secure, durable, and aesthetically pleasing. This decision can be particularly challenging in South Africa, where the climate, security concerns, and budget all need to be considered. In this blog post, we'll explore some of the best materials and woods for exterior doors, such as Meranti, Okoume, Oak, steel, fibreglass and PVC. We'll also compare the benefits and drawbacks of different materials and offer some tips to help you choose the ideal option for your home. Whether you prioritize security, durability, aesthetics, or budget, we are here to help you make an informed decision.&nbsp;<br /><br /><br /></span></p> <h2><strong>The Best Materials for Exterior Doors<br /><br /></strong></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The ideal material for your exterior door is one that is durable, secure, and aesthetically pleasing. Here are some popular materials to consider for your exterior door:</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><strong>Wood:</strong> Wood is the traditional choice for exterior doors and remains a popular option for homeowners. Various species of wood can be used for exterior doors, each with unique characteristics. Meranti, Okoume, and Oak are hardwoods that are commonly used for exterior doors in South Africa. These woods are known for their strength, durability, and resistance to rot and decay. Pine is a commonly used softwood often used in construction - but softwoods are often unsuitable for South Africa’s climate.&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><strong>Steel:</strong> Steel doors are a popular option for those looking for a secure and robust door. They are one of the strongest materials around, making them ideal for areas where crime is a concern. While they can be lower maintenance than wooden doors, they still need care to avoid rust and corrosion setting in over time.&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><strong>Fibreglass:</strong> Fibreglass doors are an excellent option for those looking for a strong and low-maintenance exterior door. They are extremely durable, despite feeling lighter than wood or steel, and will never rust, rot or warp making them particularly suitable for humid climates.<br /><br /><br /></span></p> <h2><strong>The Best Woods for Exterior Doors<br /><br /></strong></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">When it comes to choosing the best wood for your exterior door, it's essential to find a balance between strength, resistance to weather conditions, and aesthetics.&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Hardwoods such as Meranti, Okoume, and Oak are excellent options for exterior doors in South Africa. Meranti, for example, is a durable and strong hardwood that can withstand harsh weather conditions and resist rot, decay, and insect damage. Okoume is another hardwood that's known for its stability and uniform texture, making it easy to work with. Oak is a popular choice for exterior doors because of its strength and resistance to moisture and pests, however, it tends to be prohibitively expensive in South Africa. These woods may be more expensive than softwoods like pine, but they offer greater durability and longevity, making them a better long-term investment for your home.&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Pine is a common softwood used in construction, but it’s typically not suited to South Africa’s climate. Pine can be susceptible to rot, decay and infestation, especially in places like South Africa where the weather tends to be hot, humid and rainy. If you like the look of pine and you still want to use it, you can increase its durability and weather resistance by using treated pine. This can be either pressure-treated pine, pine that has been treated with pressure and chemicals to increase its durability, or treated pine which was just chemically treated.&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Hollow core wood doors have exploded in popularity in recent years, but they are completely unsuitable for exterior use as intruders could easily break through them.&nbsp;<br /><br /><br /></span></p> <h2><strong>Steel vs. Wood Exterior Doors<br /><br /></strong></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><strong>Steel and wood</strong> are two of the most popular materials for exterior doors. Here's a comparison of the two:</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><strong>Security: </strong>Steel doors are more secure than wood doors. They're incredibly durable and difficult to break through, making them ideal for high-risk areas. Wood doors are still secure, but they're more vulnerable to forced entry. Wood can often be reinforced with steel bars to combat this.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><strong>Aesthetics: </strong>Wood doors tend to be more aesthetically pleasing than steel doors. They offer a traditional look and feel and can be stained or painted to match the home's exterior. Steel doors can be painted, but they do not offer anywhere near the breadth of styles wood can offer.&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><strong>Maintenance: </strong>Steel doors require less maintenance than wood doors. They're more durable and resistant to weather and pests. Wood doors require regular maintenance, such as staining or painting to protect them from the elements.<br /><br /><br /></span></p> <h2><strong>Fibreglass vs. Wood Exterior Doors<br /><br /></strong></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Fibreglass and wood are both popular materials for exterior doors. Here's how they compare:</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><strong>Durability:</strong> Fiberglass doors are incredibly durable and resistant to weather and pests. They do not warp or rot like wood doors, making them an excellent option for South Africa's climate. Wood doors can also be incredibly strong and durable, but they require regular maintenance to protect them from the elements.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><strong>Aesthetics:</strong> Wood doors are more aesthetically pleasing than fibreglass doors. They offer a traditional look and feel and can be stained or painted to match the home's exterior. Fibreglass doors can be made to look like wood, but they can not match the visual appeal of real wood.&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><strong>Cost: </strong>Fiberglass doors are generally more expensive than wood but can be more economical over time, as you save money in maintenance costs.&nbsp;<br /><br /><br /></span></p> <h2><strong>Interior vs. Exterior Door Materials<br /><br /></strong></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">When choosing materials for your doors, it's essential to consider where the door will be located. Interior doors don't require the same level of durability as exterior doors, and different materials can be used. Here's a comparison of interior and exterior door materials:</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><strong>Wood:</strong> Wood is a popular material for both interior and exterior doors. It's durable, and secure, and can be customized to match the home's aesthetics. Hollow-core doors are a popular cost-saving measure for interior doors but are unsuitable for exterior use.&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><strong>Glass:</strong> Glass is commonly used for interior doors, such as French doors and pantry doors. It allows natural light to pass through, making the space feel more open and airy. Exterior doors can incorporate glass panes, but in South Africa tend to require reinforcement or additional levels of protection for security reasons.&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><strong>PVC: </strong>PVC is an affordable option for interior doors. It's lightweight, easy to install, and requires minimal maintenance. However, it's not as durable as other materials and may not be suitable for exterior doors.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><strong>Aluminium: </strong>Aluminum doors are commonly used for interior doors, such as sliding doors and shower doors. They're lightweight and easy to maintain, but they're not as secure as other materials and may not be suitable for exterior doors.<br /><br /><br /></span></p> <h2><strong>Choosing the Right Material and Wood for Your Exterior Door<br /><br /></strong></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Ultimately, the best material and wood for your exterior door will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Here are some factors to consider when making your decision:</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><strong>Climate:</strong> South Africa's climate is known for its high humidity and rainfall, which can cause wood to rot and warp. It's essential to choose a material that can withstand these weather conditions, such as fibreglass or a hardwood like Meranti, Okoume, or Oak. This is especially important in coastal regions.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><strong>Security:</strong> If security is a top priority, steel doors and steel-reinforced wooden doors are the best options. They're incredibly durable and difficult to break through, making them ideal for high-risk areas.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><strong>Aesthetics: </strong>If you're looking for a traditional look and feel, wood doors are the best option. They offer a warm and welcoming feel and can be customized to match the home's exterior. If you prefer a more modern look, fibreglass or steel doors may be a better option.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><strong>Budget:</strong> The cost of the door will depend on the material and size. Steel doors are generally more expensive than wood or fibreglass doors, but they offer greater security and durability. If budget is a concern, pine or PVC may be a more affordable option. However, we do not recommend cutting costs on exterior-facing doors.<br /><br /><br /></span></p> <h2><strong>Choosing the Best Materials for Your Exterior Door<br /><br /></strong></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Choosing the right material and wood for your exterior door is an important decision. It's essential to consider the climate, security, durability, and aesthetics when making your decision. Meranti, Okoume, Oak, steel, and fibreglass are all excellent options to consider, each with its unique benefits and drawbacks. Ultimately, the best option for your home will depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you're unsure which material or wood to choose, consult with a professional contractor or retailer who can provide expert advice and guidance.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">You can </span><a href="https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/exterior-doors-2"><span style="font-weight: 400;">see our full range of exterior doors here, including one of the widest ranges of wooden doors in South Africa</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">. Or, </span><a href="https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/contactus"><span style="font-weight: 400;">contact us for any advice on choosing the best exterior door for your home or business.</span></a></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p>urn:store:1:blog:post:20https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/standard-aluminium-size-windows-in-south-africaStandard Aluminium size windows in South Africa<p>Standard aluminum windows are a popular choice for many South African homes and buildings. These windows offer a number of benefits, including durability, energy efficiency, and easy maintenance. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at standard aluminum windows in South Africa and explore some of the key factors to consider when choosing them for your home or building.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>One of the main advantages of aluminum windows is their durability. Aluminum is a strong and lightweight metal that is resistant to corrosion and weathering. This means that aluminum windows can withstand the harsh South African climate and continue to look good for many years. Additionally, aluminum windows are also easy to maintain and clean, making them a great choice for busy homeowners.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Another benefit of aluminum windows is their energy efficiency. These windows are designed to keep your home or building cool in the summer and warm in the winter. This can help to reduce your energy bills and make your home or building more comfortable to live in. Additionally, many aluminum windows also come with double glazing, which can further improve their energy efficiency.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>When it comes to choosing standard aluminum windows for your South African home or building, there are a few key factors to consider. One important factor is the size of the windows. Standard aluminum windows come in a range of sizes, so it's important to choose windows that will fit the openings in your home or building. Additionally, it's also important to consider the style of the windows. There are a variety of different styles of standard aluminum windows available, including casement, awning, slider, and more. Each style has its own unique features and benefits, so it's important to choose the style that best suits your needs and preferences.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Another important factor to consider is the color of the windows. Standard aluminum windows are available in a range of colors, so it's important to choose windows that will complement the overall look and feel of your home or building. Additionally, it's also important to consider the cost of the windows. Aluminum windows can vary in price, so it's important to choose windows that fit within your budget.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>In conclusion, standard aluminum windows are a popular choice for many South African homes and buildings. These windows offer a number of benefits, including durability, energy efficiency, and easy maintenance. When choosing standard aluminum windows for your home or building, it's important to consider factors such as the size, style, color, and cost of the windows. By taking the time to consider these factors, you can be sure to choose windows that will meet your needs and enhance the overall look and feel of your home or building.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Have a look at Doors Direct range of standard aluminium windows here: <span style="color: #e03e2d;"><strong><a style="color: #e03e2d;" href="https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/economy-aluminium-windows">Economy Aluminium Window Pricing</a></strong></span> and <span style="color: #e03e2d;"><strong><a style="color: #e03e2d;" href="https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/economy-aluminium-windows">Mid Level Aluminium Window Pricing</a></strong></span></p>urn:store:1:blog:post:19https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/caring-for-timber-windowsCaring for timber windows<p style="text-align: left;"><img src="/images/uploaded/17191099283_e670b7e926_o.jpg" alt="" width="827" height="1000" /></p> <p style="text-align: left;">Timber windows are a beautiful and traditional feature in many homes, but they do require some special care to ensure they remain in good condition. Here are some tips for maintaining and caring for your timber windows.</p> <ol style="text-align: left;"> <li> <p>Regular cleaning: Dust and grime can accumulate on timber windows over time, which can lead to discoloration and damage to the wood. To keep your windows looking their best, it's important to clean them regularly. Use a soft cloth or a mild detergent solution to wipe down the frames and sashes, and make sure to dry them thoroughly afterwards.</p> </li> <li> <p>Protect from the elements: Timber windows are susceptible to rot, warping, and cracking if they are exposed to moisture. To protect your windows from the elements, make sure they are properly sealed and painted or stained. This will help to repel water and prevent the wood from becoming damaged.&nbsp; Doors Direct supplies an extensive range of timber sealers.&nbsp; Have a look at this page to learn more:<strong> <span style="color: #e03e2d;"><a style="color: #e03e2d;" href="https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/sealants">Wood Sealants</a></span></strong></p> </li> <li> <p>Watch for signs of damage: Over time, timber windows can become worn and damaged. Look out for signs of rot, warping, cracking, or other damage, and address any issues as soon as possible. If you notice any major problems, it's best to call in a professional to assess the situation and make any necessary repairs.</p> </li> <li> <p>Regular maintenance: To keep your timber windows in good condition, it's important to perform regular maintenance on them. This may include repainting or restaining the frames, replacing weatherstripping, or tightening loose hardware. By performing regular maintenance, you can help to prevent major repairs down the road.</p> </li> <li> <p>Insulation: To improve energy efficiency of your home, you can consider adding insulation to your windows. This can be done by adding weatherstripping or caulking around the frames, or by installing storm windows. This will help to keep drafts out and keep your home more comfortable year-round.</p> </li> <li> <p>Keep an eye on the hardware: Over time, the hardware on your timber windows can become loose, rusted, or damaged. This can make it difficult to open and close the windows, and can also lead to leaks. Make sure to check the hardware on your windows regularly, and replace or repair any parts that are damaged or worn.</p> </li> <li> <p>Professional inspection: To ensure your timber windows are in good condition, it's a good idea to have them professionally inspected every few years. A professional inspector will be able to identify any potential problems, and can make recommendations for repairs or maintenance.</p> </li> </ol> <p style="text-align: left;">Caring for timber windows can be a bit of work, but it's well worth it to preserve the beauty and longevity of these traditional features in your home. By following these tips, you can help to keep your timber windows in good condition for many years to come.</p> <p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.doorsdirect.co.za">www.doorsdirect.co.za</a> has the largest range of timber windows and doors in the country.&nbsp; There are various ranges of windows to suit your budget, including <span style="color: #e03e2d;"><strong><a style="color: #e03e2d;" href="https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/economy-level-window-range">Economy Windows</a>, <a style="color: #e03e2d;" href="https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/mid-level-wooden-window-range">Mid Level Wooden Windows</a>, <a style="color: #e03e2d;" href="https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/luxury-window-range">Luxury Windows</a></strong></span> &amp; even <span style="color: #e03e2d;"><strong><a style="color: #e03e2d;" href="https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/strongwood-windows-security-window-range">Strongwood Security Windows</a>.</strong></span>&nbsp; You can view prices of our complete range of Meranti timber windows &amp; order online here: <span style="color: #e03e2d;"><strong><a style="color: #e03e2d;" href="https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/wooden-windows-2">Wooden Window Pricing</a></strong></span>&nbsp;</p>urn:store:1:blog:post:18https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/is-a-solid-core-door-worth-the-extra-money-2Is a Solid Core Door worth the extra money<p>The short answer is yes!</p> <p><br />Solid wood doors are manufactured from solid timber, such as Meranti, Oak, Kiaat, Okoume or sometimes from a softwood such as Pine.</p> <p>Solid Core doors usually have a pine inner frame and synthetic material such as chipboard on the inside and are cladded on the exterior faces with either a wood veneer or else with Masonite or Supawood (MDF – medium density fibre board.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong><u>Price:</u></strong></p> <p><a title="Solid Core" href="https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/solid-core" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong><span style="color: #e03e2d;">Solid Core</span></strong></a><span style="color: #e03e2d;"> </span>doors range in price from R800.00 up to R2 500.00 depending on the veneer while <span style="color: #e03e2d;"><a style="color: #e03e2d;" title="Hollow Core Doors" href="https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/hollow-core" target="_blank" rel="noopener">hollow core door</a></span> prices start at under R300.00.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Even though light duty hollow core doors cost substantially less than solid core doors, a solid core door will be more cost effective over time as the solid core door is much stronger and more durable than a light duty hollow core door.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong><u>Security:</u></strong></p> <p>With crime levels being so high in South Africa, this is certainly a very important factor to consider when choosing between a heavy-duty solid core door and a light duty hollow core door.&nbsp; A light duty hollow core door is easily broken with a kick or even with a punch, however a solid core heavy duty door, will require a huge amount of force before breaking.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong><u>Acoustics:</u></strong></p> <p>Solid Core doors provide much better sound insulation than hollow core doors, so if you are looking to muffle sounds from your TV room or bedroom, a solid core door will be much more effective than a hollow core door.&nbsp; Solid core doors are often used in offices where privacy is of great importance.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong><u>Weight:</u></strong></p> <p>A standard 813 X 2032 light duty hollow core door weighs +- 13 kilograms, compared to a heavy-duty solid core door which weighs +- 40 kilograms, so the best way to tell if a door is really a solid core door is to pick it up!</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong><u>Fire Resistance:</u></strong></p> <p>Hollow core doors will hardly provide any fire resistance at all, whereas a solid core door will be much more fire resistant, however just because a door is a solid core door, does not mean that it is fire rated.&nbsp; If you require a <span style="color: #e03e2d;"><a style="color: #e03e2d;" title="Fire Rated Door" href="https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/fire-rated" target="_blank" rel="noopener">certified fire rated door</a></span>, Doors Direct has a large range of 30-minute, 60 minute and 120-minute certified fire doors here: <span style="color: #e03e2d;"><a style="color: #e03e2d;" title="Doors Direct Fire Rated Doors" href="https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/fire-rated" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Doors Direct Fire Rated Doors</a></span><br /><br /></p>urn:store:1:blog:post:16https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/modern-security-and-11-more-home-security-tipsModern Security & 11 More Home Security Tips<p dir="ltr"><img src="/Content/Images/uploaded/modern-home-security.jpg" alt="" width="629" height="419" /></p> <p dir="ltr">According to <a href="https://africacheck.org/factsheets/factsheet-south-africas-crime-statistics-for-2017-18/">Africa Check</a>, an average of 625 houses are burgled per day in South Africa. These stats are a little daunting, so it is paramount that you take steps to protect your home; whether they&rsquo;re simple or sophisticated.</p> <p dir="ltr">It is also a great idea to have home insurance, if you don&rsquo;t already, so you can claim back anything broken or stolen in the event of your house being broken into. As these helpful tips will show too, utilising a lot of home security improvements can significantly lower any home insurance or contents insurance costs too. Even though you have insurance there are loads of other things you can do to prevent burglars from entering your home in the first place.</p> <p dir="ltr">There are plenty of small tips to keep in mind, such as always remembering to lock side or back gates and keeping your key out of locks when not using them, but for the security savvy folk looking for some more proactive tips, we&rsquo;ve got you covered.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>These top tips from <a href="https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/">Doors Direct</a> can help you secure your home whilst still being covered by home insurance.</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">&nbsp;</p> <p dir="ltr"><a href="https://trustyjoe.com/"><img src="/Content/Images/uploaded/home-security-tips.jpg" alt="" width="554" height="414" /></a></p> <p dir="ltr">Image courtesy of&nbsp;<a href="https://trustyjoe.com/">TrustyJoe.com</a></p> <h2 dir="ltr">&nbsp;1.&nbsp;Always set your house alarm.</h2> <p dir="ltr">If you&rsquo;re serious about stopping thieves, you might want to install an alarm system. This will provide a deterrent to criminals and could also reduce the cost of your home insurance. An important thing to note is that your alarm needs to be activated to avoid invalidating your insurance policy.&nbsp;</p> <p dir="ltr">The most effective way to use an alarm is to set it whenever you leave the house and before you go to bed and to remember that, like any kind of security system, it&rsquo;s important to remember to regularly change the password. This is especially true of new security systems; remember to update and personalise your system by changing the default code/password.</p> <p dir="ltr">&nbsp;</p> <h2 dir="ltr">2. Update your door locks.</h2> <p dir="ltr">Did you know that having certain types of approved locks can reduce the cost of your home insurance? That&rsquo;s because they are safe and more likely to prevent criminals from entering your home. This is a two-birds-one-stone kind of deal, as you get to increase the security of your home whilst lowering any insurance costs.</p> <p dir="ltr">A lot of burglars have developed methods to bypass the typical old lock systems. Therefore it is really important to make sure you have modern locks; and even better to get insurer approved locks. Be sure to research which locks are insurer approved, after all; when it comes to home security it&rsquo;s best to be on the safe side.</p> <p dir="ltr">&nbsp;</p> <h2 dir="ltr">3. Don&rsquo;t forget the windows!</h2> <p dir="ltr">The same notion applies to your windows - if you can find super secure insurer approved windows, this will most likely bring your insurance premium price down. There&rsquo;s also the obvious advantage of ensuring that one of the most appealing entrances for a burglar is secured.</p> <p dir="ltr">Also, I know it&rsquo;s fairly easy to remember to lock your windows when you leave the house, however, you must lock them at night. Even in the warmer summer nights. Any open window at night provides an easy opportunity for criminals.</p> <p dir="ltr"><img src="/Content/Images/uploaded/smart-lighting-security-2.jpg" alt="" width="663" height="442" /></p> <p dir="ltr">&nbsp;</p> <h2 dir="ltr">4. Consider using smart lighting.</h2> <p dir="ltr">Most burglars prefer to take their opportunity when it&rsquo;s dark. Something like motion sensor lighting will alert you and your neighbours that someone is approaching your property. Sometimes something even as little as this can be enough to put them off, and if nothing else it keeps the rest of the neighbourhood aware of people skulking around at night.</p> <p dir="ltr">Another option is to buy automated lighting that comes on at intervals when you&rsquo;re not around. This is particularly handy for when you&rsquo;re on holiday as it will make it look like you are still at home; a huge point in itself that will be addressed later.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p> <p dir="ltr">&nbsp;</p> <h2 dir="ltr">5. Be smart with your keys.</h2> <p dir="ltr">It&rsquo;s not uncommon for us to leave spare keys around the exterior of the house. After all, we&rsquo;re all susceptible to forgetting our keys from time to time and leaving a spare key under a doormat or plant pot can help make things easier when others are looking after your house; but it&rsquo;s vital to remember that these tricks are common knowledge.</p> <p dir="ltr">Any burglars scoping out your home will most likely check around these common areas, as to break into your house with your own spare key, so if you need to keep a spare key outside be sure to think outside the box. Remember, in many cases where a burglar has entered this way, that is, not via forced entry, insurers won&rsquo;t payout on a claim.</p> <p dir="ltr">&nbsp;</p> <h2 dir="ltr">6. Trust the professionals.</h2> <p dir="ltr">No matter how keen you are at DIY, nor how proficient you believe you are in dealing with your own home security, it&rsquo;s always important to remember a little humility and consult with professionals when it comes to any home security improvements.</p> <p dir="ltr">It might save you money in the short-term to fix or install a lock yourself, but in the long-run, your craftsmanship may not cut the mustard compared to a hired professional. According to a study by Aviva, over a third of people surveyed admitted that their own attempts resulted in a &rsquo;DIY disaster&rsquo;, with over half of these people having to call in professional help to right these wrongs.</p> <p dir="ltr"><img src="/Content/Images/uploaded/door-lock-key.jpg" alt="" width="648" height="432" /></p> <p dir="ltr">&nbsp;</p> <h2 dir="ltr">7. Invest in additional locks.</h2> <p dir="ltr">It goes without saying that more secure locks on your doors will help keep your home safe, but there are often entrances that are overlooked. Much like windows, giving your conservatory or patio doors a little extra reinforcement can really go a long way.</p> <p dir="ltr">By utilising the likes of a Patlock not only can you make it harder to burglars to break in via glass doors, but you can also send a clearer message with them. It&rsquo;s hard to ignore a large, bulky, steering-lock style lock on the other side of a glass door, so showcasing these types of lock can often act as a great deterrent.</p> <p dir="ltr">&nbsp;</p> <h2 dir="ltr">8. Remember not to neglect the letterbox.</h2> <p dir="ltr">Much like the preventative measures you can take with locks, letterboxes can also be reinforced. Letterbox guards prevent intruders from &lsquo;key fishing&rsquo;, which is when burglars stick a hook through conventional letterboxes to grab any keys that might be kept by the door.</p> <p dir="ltr">Of course, by ensuring that your keys are out of reach and not positioned close to the door, you can prevent these attempts completely, yet letterbox guards provide additional benefits. An example of such is helping to lower insurance costs, as they show your insurer that you&rsquo;re willing to take extra steps for your security.</p> <p dir="ltr">&nbsp;</p> <h2 dir="ltr">9. Make your doorbell modern.</h2> <p dir="ltr">The digital age is approaching every element of home security, including the likes of doorbells. By installing a digital door viewer you can both see any people approaching your door as well as save recordings, often through the use of apps so that you can ensure your home&rsquo;s safety even when you&rsquo;re away.</p> <p dir="ltr">Seeing these tech boosts to your door may serve as a deterrent in their own right as well, as it sends a clear message to any would-be burglars that you&rsquo;re serious about keeping your home safe. If the worst happens and you are burgled, then these devices will be incredibly helpful in finding the suspects too.</p> <p dir="ltr"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/nP_4ynl__Kym7W8DGNJ_XKQDoC13E2xwSoOQM_GRBx3sJ66pYVLMrpyyS8EBeIsJ9OFiU8b-f3OUS6KGtiVM6cRoCsXr5UHbtkDDzsdDLZqstJtHXvkUciZtdSV1Tv3FxK5bIRC9" alt="" width="602" height="401" /></p> <p dir="ltr">&nbsp;</p> <h2 dir="ltr">10. Cover yourself when you&rsquo;re away.</h2> <p dir="ltr">It&rsquo;s natural to feel a little nervous when leaving your home unguarded for a long period of time; whether it&rsquo;s a week away on holiday or family calls you away for a month. It&rsquo;s best to recruit the help of a good friend or family member to hold down the fort while you&rsquo;re gone, but for those who can&rsquo;t enlist such a luxury, there are ways to make your home look more lived in and less of a target.</p> <p dir="ltr">Burglars will see an empty home, especially one that&rsquo;s been empty for a while, as a very alluring prospect, so be sure to keep everyone in the loop (such as milkmen, newspaper deliveries, etc) as to not inadvertently advertise the fact that no one&rsquo;s been picking up the mail for a while. If nothing else, asking a neighbour or a friend to pop in from time to time helps to avoid these issues.</p> <p dir="ltr">&nbsp;</p> <h2 dir="ltr">11. Lock it down with a safe.</h2> <p dir="ltr">Safes may conjure the image of crown jewels or bearer bonds being stored away, but in reality, keeping them around the home for any items of value can be incredibly helpful. Whether it&rsquo;s storing certain electronics, important documents like passports or just having them around for peace of mind.</p> <p dir="ltr">Letting your insurance providers know about safes can also help to lower those rates, which is always good, but most importantly if the worst happens and your home is broken into those safes will start paying for themselves. Unlike in the movies, burglars probably aren&rsquo;t going to see safes as challenges; they&rsquo;d probably bypass them for easier pickings. Of course, this isn&rsquo;t great if they take the TV, but if you&rsquo;re keeping the likes of jewellery away in a safe then hey, it could have been worse.</p> <p dir="ltr">&nbsp;</p> <h2 dir="ltr">12. Invest in CCTV.</h2> <p dir="ltr">Finally, this step may seem a little extreme, but given how common CCTV is becoming in homes nowadays it&rsquo;s not too drastic an action to consider. By having professionals install insurer approved monitoring systems you&rsquo;ll be able to remotely view your home and keep it safe, and should anything begin to go awry these systems will guarantee a police response.</p> <p dir="ltr">Some may make use of &lsquo;fake CCTV cameras&rsquo;, opting to use paper tigers as scare tactics, but these superficial solutions fall apart pretty quickly in the event of a brave burglar prowling around the neighbourhood. The best deterrent is a genuine CCTV system, after all.</p>urn:store:1:blog:post:15https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/best-south-african-home-design-blogsBest South African Home Design Blogs 2019<p>&nbsp;</p> <p dir="ltr"><img src="/Content/Images/uploaded/best home blogs/HEADER.png" alt="" width="765" height="300" /></p> <p dir="ltr">Are you looking for design ideas to improve your home? We have&nbsp;you covered with this&nbsp;list of the best home design blogs in South Africa. We&rsquo;ve hand-picked bloggers from a variety of fields including; lifestyle and DIY-focused creators. Get ready to be inspired and take a look at our favourite&nbsp;South African home design blogs.</p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><span style="font-size: 26pt;">Home-Dzine</span></strong></span></p> <div class="boxed"> <p><img src="/Content/Images/uploaded/best home blogs/homedzine.PNG" alt="" width="275" height="120" /></p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-1830c04a-7fff-3b73-7cd4-54d8209a9efb"><strong>Website:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.home-dzine.co.za/index.htm">https://www.home-dzine.co.za/</a></span></p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-baf0624a-7fff-0fe3-6f0d-0969dca575f4">Founded in 2005 by home DIY enthusiast Janice Anderssen, Home-Dzine is a DIY lover's paradise. Full of handy DIY and decor tips and tricks, this blog has pretty much everything you need to up your home improvement and interior game.<br /></span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline; font-size: 26pt;"><strong>Little Interiors</strong></span></p> </div> <div class="boxed"> <p><img src="/Content/Images/uploaded/best home blogs/New-Little-Interiors-Logo-SML.jpg" alt="" width="282" height="120" /></p> <p><strong>Website:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="http://www.littleinteriors.co.za">www.littleinteriors.co.za</a></p> <p dir="ltr">If you&rsquo;re looking for some inspiration for the little ones, Little Interiors is loaded with inspiration to make any child&rsquo;s space look great. Started by interior designer Mari&euml;tte Sakelliou in 2011, this blog has a massive range of ideas for anything from nurseries to bedrooms, and how to keep your home child-friendly, so it&rsquo;s definitely worth a scroll.<br /><br /><br /></p> <p dir="ltr"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline; font-size: 26pt;">Homeology</span></strong></p> </div> <div class="boxed"> <p dir="ltr"><img src="/Content/Images/uploaded/best home blogs/homeology.PNG" alt="" width="219" height="52" /></p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Website:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://homeology.co.za/">https://homeology.co.za/</a></p> <p dir="ltr">If you&rsquo;re looking for inspiration to liven up your living space, whether it&rsquo;s getting the low-down on the latest interior design trends or a clever DIY idea, then you&rsquo;ll enjoy Homeology. Founded by Germarie Bruwer, her approach is all about making your home a place where you can care for yourself from inside and out. She regularly features contributors, making it full of everything you need to make your house feel more like a home. It also features regular &ldquo;makers&rdquo; pieces by local designers, so it&rsquo;s a fantastic way to keep up with South African decor trends.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline; font-size: 26pt;"><strong>Iwantthat</strong></span>&nbsp;</p> </div> <p dir="ltr"><img src="/Content/Images/uploaded/best home blogs/iw.PNG" alt="" width="312" height="173" /></p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Website:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="http://www.iwantthat.co.za/">http://www.iwantthat.co.za/</a></p> <p dir="ltr">You'll definitely be saying "I want that" after spending time on this decor and lifestyle blog. This was set up by Cape Town-based freelance magazine journalist Vicki Sleet, where you can find her taking her own spin on trends, and even bringing old ones back to life. The Bargain Betty section is full of crafty DIY ideas that can spruce up your living space without breaking the bank, too.</p> <p dir="ltr">&nbsp;</p> <p dir="ltr"><span style="text-decoration: underline; font-size: 26pt;"><strong>Inspired Living&nbsp;</strong></span></p> <p dir="ltr"><img src="/Content/Images/uploaded/best home blogs/inspire.PNG" alt="" width="308" height="79" /></p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Website:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.inspiredlivingsa.co.za">https://www.inspiredlivingsa.co.za</a></p> <p dir="ltr">Another fabulous design, decor and lifestyle blog on our list, Fiona Rossiter&rsquo;s Inspired Living blog is jam-packed with home renovation advice, DIY projects and interior inspiration. What stands out about this one is their handy mood boards, pairing colour palettes with furniture and accessory ideas, so you&rsquo;ll always be ready for your next living space refresh, or a trip to Ikea.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline; font-size: 26pt;"><strong>Becoming You</strong></span></p> <p dir="ltr"><img src="/Content/Images/uploaded/best home blogs/become.PNG" alt="" width="302" height="69" /></p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Website:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.becomingyou.co.za/interiors/">https://www.becomingyou.co.za/</a></p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-1e9e9a6c-7fff-699d-2d6c-eaed7e390b32">Kathryn Rossiter created Becoming You as a space for her to offer tips and inspiration, and she&rsquo;s also passionate about encouraging women with her Women at Work series. When it comes to decor, she has recently gone through a renovation of her own home and shares her journey with room reveals and renovation diaries, so you can take a peek into Kathryn's home design journey for yourself. <br /></span></p> <p dir="ltr">&nbsp;</p> <p dir="ltr"><span style="text-decoration: underline; font-size: 26pt;"><strong>A Zesty You</strong></span></p> <p dir="ltr"><img src="/Content/Images/uploaded/best home blogs/azes.PNG" alt="" width="204" height="223" /></p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Website:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="http://azestylife.co.za/category/decor/">http://azestylife.co.za/category/</a></p> <p dir="ltr">If you&rsquo;re looking to add a bit of zest to your home, freelance writer Yolandi&rsquo;s A Zesty Life blog will help you do just that. She&rsquo;s keen on DIY projects, and you can get design inspiration from her Home Tours features, where she carefully curates tours of homes that inspire her in her own network, from friends to family.</p> <p dir="ltr">&nbsp;</p> <p dir="ltr"><span style="font-size: 26pt;"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Things Dee Loves</span></strong></span></p> <p dir="ltr"><img src="/Content/Images/uploaded/best home blogs/tdl.PNG" alt="" width="410" height="41" /></p> <p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-605c0097-7fff-f838-7442-6b2cbb9cd337"><strong>Website:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="http://www.thingsdeeloves.com/category/home-stuff/">http://www.thingsdeeloves.com/</a></span></p> <p dir="ltr">Things Dee Loves is a place where blogger and scientist Danielle showcases her love for life, crafts and prettiness (in her own words!) Some of her ventures into home design and decor include her courtyard makeover and putting her crafting skills into practice with DIY projects.</p> <p dir="ltr">&nbsp;</p> <p dir="ltr"><span style="text-decoration: underline; font-size: 26pt;"><strong>Ask Ashe</strong></span>&nbsp;</p> <p dir="ltr"><img src="/Content/Images/uploaded/best home blogs/askas.PNG" alt="" width="239" height="235" /></p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Website:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="http://www.askashe.com/category/design-interiors/">http://www.askashe.com/</a></p> <p dir="ltr">Having a background in interior design and advertising, Nicola Ashe has a strong attention to detail when it comes to all things decor. After starting the blog as a part-time gig back in 2008, Nicola is now a full-time brand consultant and lifestyle blogger, sharing her takes on the world of design and decor regularly. Plenty to get you inspired.</p> <p dir="ltr">&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p dir="ltr">&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p dir="ltr">&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p dir="ltr">&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p dir="ltr">&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p>urn:store:1:blog:post:14https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/what-are-the-standard-door-sizes-in-your-countryWhat are the Standard Door Sizes in your Country?<p dir="ltr"><img src="/Content/Images/uploaded/blog/doors banner.png" alt="" width="766" height="431" /></p> <p dir="ltr">You might be wondering what is the width and height of an average door? In this post, we will show you the <strong>standard (most common) size</strong> for both internal (bedroom) doors and exterior front doors.</p> <p>However, something to note is that standard door sizes vary depending on which country you are in. Therefore we will cover <strong>South African, American, British, Australian</strong> and <strong>Indian</strong> door sizes.</p> <p>Another thing to understand about door dimensions is that although each country has a standard door size, they also have many <strong>size variations</strong> to suit your needs. The premium, bespoke option for a <strong>custom built</strong> door service is usually available as well.</p> <p>If you are buying a wooden door then a professional woodworker will normally carry out the installation. As part of the installation, they may <strong>adjust the size</strong> of your door for the perfect fit using a plainer.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <hr style="border: 1px solid #000;" /> <p style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><em> Want to find out the standard door dimensions in your country? Use the navigation below:</em></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large; color: red;"><strong><em> <a href="https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/what-are-the-standard-door-sizes-in-your-country/#UK" rel="noopener">UK</a> | <a href="https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/what-are-the-standard-door-sizes-in-your-country/#SouthAfrica" rel="noopener">South Africa</a> | <a href="https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/what-are-the-standard-door-sizes-in-your-country/#USA" rel="noopener">USA</a> | <a href="https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/what-are-the-standard-door-sizes-in-your-country/#India" rel="noopener">India</a> | <a href="https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/what-are-the-standard-door-sizes-in-your-country/#Australia" rel="noopener">Australia</a> | </em></strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</p> <hr style="border: 1px solid #000;" /> <div id="South Africa">&nbsp;</div> <h2 dir="ltr"><strong>Standard Door Sizes - South Africa</strong></h2> <p>The <strong>standard door size</strong> for <a href="https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/interior-doors-2">internal</a> and <a href="https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/exterior-doors-2">external doors</a> in South Africa is <em>813 x 2032 mm.</em></p> <h4><strong>Other door sizes include:</strong></h4> <table class="tg" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0;"> <tbody> <tr><th style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #c75a5a; color: #ffffff; text-align: center; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">Inches</th><th style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #c75a5a; color: #ffffff; text-align: center; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">Metric</th><th style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #c75a5a; color: #ffffff; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">Imperial</th></tr> <tr> <td style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">30" x 80"</td> <td style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; border: 1px solid #ffffff;"><span style="font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit;">762 x 2032 mm</span></td> <td style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">2' 6" x 6' 8"</td> </tr> <tr> <td style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; font-weight: bold; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">32" x 80"</td> <td style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; font-weight: bold; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; border: 1px solid #ffffff;"><span style="font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit;">813 x 2032 mm</span></td> <td style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; font-weight: bold; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">2' 8" x 6' 8"</td> </tr> <tr> <td style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">35" x 80"</td> <td style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; border: 1px solid #ffffff;"><span style="font-style: inherit;">900 x 2032 mm</span></td> <td style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">2' 11" x 6' 8"</td> </tr> <tr> <td style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">47" x 80"</td> <td style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; border: 1px solid #ffffff;"><span style="font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit;">1200 x 2032 mm</span></td> <td style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">3' 11" x 6' 8"</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p>&nbsp;</p> <div id="UK">&nbsp;</div> <h2 dir="ltr"><strong>Standard Door Sizes - UK</strong></h2> <p>The <strong>standard door size</strong> for internal and external doors in the UK is <em>762 x 1981mm</em>.</p> <h4 dir="ltr"><strong>Other door sizes include:</strong></h4> <table class="tg" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0;"> <tbody> <tr><th style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #c75a5a; color: #ffffff; text-align: center; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">Inches</th><th style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #c75a5a; color: #ffffff; text-align: center; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">Metric</th><th style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #c75a5a; color: #ffffff; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">Imperial</th></tr> <tr> <td style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">24&rdquo; x 78&rdquo;</td> <td style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; border: 1px solid #ffffff;"><span style="font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit;">610 x 1981 mm</span></td> <td style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">2&rsquo; 0" x 6&rsquo; 6&rdquo;</td> </tr> <tr> <td style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">27&rdquo; x 78&rdquo;</td> <td style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; border: 1px solid #ffffff;"><span style="font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit;">686 x 1981 mm</span></td> <td style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">2&rsquo; 3&rdquo; x 6&rsquo;6&rdquo;</td> </tr> <tr> <td style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; font-weight: bold; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">30&rdquo; x 78&rdquo;</td> <td style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; font-weight: bold; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">762 x 1981 mm</td> <td style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; font-weight: bold; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">2&rsquo; 6&rdquo; x 6&rsquo; 6&rdquo;</td> </tr> <tr> <td style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">33&rdquo; x 78&rdquo;</td> <td style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; border: 1px solid #ffffff;"><span style="font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit;">838 x 1981 mm</span></td> <td style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">2&rsquo; 9&rdquo; x 6&rsquo; 6&rdquo;</td> </tr> <tr> <td style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">34&rdquo; x 78&rdquo;</td> <td style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; border: 1px solid #ffffff;"><span style="font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit;">864 x 2083 mm</span></td> <td style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">2&rsquo;10&rdquo; x 6&rsquo;10&rdquo;</td> </tr> <tr> <td style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">36&rdquo; x 84&rdquo;</td> <td style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; border: 1px solid #ffffff;"><span style="font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit;">915 x 2143 mm</span></td> <td style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">3&rsquo; 0" x 7&rsquo; 0"</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p>&nbsp;</p> <div id="USA">&nbsp;</div> <h2 dir="ltr"><strong>Standard Door Sizes - USA</strong></h2> <p dir="ltr">The <strong>standard Interior door size</strong> in America is <em>762 x 2032 mm</em>. Whereas the <strong>standard exterior door size</strong> is <em>910 x 2030 mm.</em></p> <h4 dir="ltr"><strong>Other Door Sizes Include:</strong></h4> <table class="tg" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0;"> <tbody> <tr><th style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #c75a5a; color: #ffffff; text-align: center; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">Inches</th><th style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #c75a5a; color: #ffffff; text-align: center; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">Metric</th><th style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #c75a5a; color: #ffffff; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">Imperial</th></tr> <tr> <td style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">24" x 80"</td> <td style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; border: 1px solid #ffffff;"><span style="font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit;">610 x 2032 mm</span></td> <td style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">2' 0" x 6' 8"</td> </tr> <tr> <td style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">28" x 80"</td> <td style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; border: 1px solid #ffffff;"><span style="font-style: inherit;">711 x 2032 mm</span></td> <td style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">2' 4" x 6' 8"</td> </tr> <tr> <td style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; font-weight: bold; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">30" x 80"</td> <td style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; font-weight: bold; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; border: 1px solid #ffffff;"><span style="font-style: inherit;">762 x 2032 mm</span></td> <td style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; font-weight: bold; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">2' 6" x 6' 8"</td> </tr> <tr> <td style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">32" x 80"</td> <td style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">813 x 2032 mm</td> <td style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">2' 8" x 6' 8"</td> </tr> <tr> <td style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; font-weight: bold; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">36" x 80"</td> <td style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; font-weight: bold; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">910 x 2030 mm</td> <td style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; font-weight: bold; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">2' 11" x 6' 8"</td> </tr> <tr> <td style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">36" x 80"</td> <td style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">914 x 2032 mm</td> <td style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">2' 11" x 6' 8"</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p>&nbsp;</p> <div id="India">&nbsp;</div> <h2 dir="ltr"><strong>Standard Door Sizes - India</strong></h2> <p dir="ltr">The <strong>standard interior door size</strong> in India is <em>800 x 2045 mm</em> and the <strong>standard exterior door size</strong> is <em>1000 &nbsp;x 2045 mm.</em></p> <h4 dir="ltr"><strong>Other Door Sizes Include:</strong></h4> <table class="tg" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0;"> <tbody> <tr><th style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #c75a5a; color: #ffffff; text-align: center; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">Inches</th><th style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #c75a5a; color: #ffffff; text-align: center; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">Metric</th><th style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #c75a5a; color: #ffffff; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">Imperial</th></tr> <tr> <td style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">26" x 80"</td> <td style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; border: 1px solid #ffffff;"><span style="font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit;">650 x 2045 mm</span></td> <td style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">2' 1" x 6' 8"</td> </tr> <tr> <td style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; font-weight: bold; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">31" x 80"</td> <td style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; font-weight: bold; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; border: 1px solid #ffffff;"><span style="font-style: inherit;">800 x 2045 mm</span></td> <td style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; font-weight: bold; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">2' 7" x 6' 8"</td> </tr> <tr> <td style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">35" x 80"</td> <td style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; border: 1px solid #ffffff;"><span style="font-style: inherit;">900 x 2045 mm</span></td> <td style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">2' 11" x 6' 8"</td> </tr> <tr> <td style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; font-weight: bold; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">39" x 80"</td> <td style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; font-weight: bold; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">1000 x 2045 mm</td> <td style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; font-weight: bold; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">3' 3" x 6' 8"</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p>&nbsp;</p> <div id="Australia">&nbsp;</div> <h2 dir="ltr"><strong>Standard Door Sizes - Australia</strong></h2> <p dir="ltr">The <strong>standard door size</strong> in Australia is <em>820 x 2040 mm</em> for both internal and external doors.</p> <h4 dir="ltr"><strong>Other Door Sizes Include:</strong></h4> <table class="tg" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0;"> <tbody> <tr><th style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #c75a5a; color: #ffffff; text-align: center; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">Inches</th><th style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #c75a5a; color: #ffffff; text-align: center; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">Metric</th><th style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #c75a5a; color: #ffffff; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">Imperial</th></tr> <tr> <td style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">20" x 80"</td> <td style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; border: 1px solid #ffffff;"><span style="font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit;">520 x 2040 mm</span></td> <td style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">1' 7" x 6' 8"</td> </tr> <tr> <td style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">24" x 80"</td> <td style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; border: 1px solid #ffffff;"><span style="font-style: inherit;">620 x 2040 mm</span></td> <td style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">2' 0" x 6' 8"</td> </tr> <tr> <td style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">28" x 80"</td> <td style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; border: 1px solid #ffffff;"><span style="font-style: inherit;">720 x 2040 mm</span></td> <td style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">2' 4" x 6' 8"</td> </tr> <tr> <td style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">30" x 80"</td> <td style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">770 x 2040 mm</td> <td style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; ;font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">2' 6" x 6' 8"</td> </tr> <tr> <td style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; border: 1px solid #ffffff;"><strong>32" x 80"</strong></td> <td style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; border: 1px solid #ffffff;"><strong>820 x 2040 mm</strong></td> <td style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; border: 1px solid #ffffff;"><strong>2' 8" x 6' 8"</strong></td> </tr> <tr> <td style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">34" x 80"</td> <td style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">870 x 2040 mm</td> <td style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">2' 10" x 6' 8"</td> </tr> <tr> <td style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">36" x 80"</td> <td style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">920 x 2040 mm</td> <td style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 5px; overflow: hidden; word-break: normal; background-color: #dddddd; color: #000000; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; border: 1px solid #ffffff;">2' 10" x 6' 8"</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p>&nbsp;</p>urn:store:1:blog:post:11https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/wooden-windows-vs-aluminium-windowsWooden windows vs Aluminium windows<p>&nbsp;<img src="/Content/Images/uploaded/blog/wooden-windows-banner3.jpg" alt="wooden windows" width="786" height="394" /></p> <p>In South Africa the most common window types are either wood or aluminium, each has their own benefits that one needs to consider but we are firm believers that <a href="https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/">wooden windows</a>&nbsp;are the superior product. Here are some of the reasons we believe meranti windows should be your first choice for renovated or newly built homes.</p> <p><strong>The beauty of nature</strong></p> <p>Wooden windows offer a natural aesthetically pleasing wood grain that cannot be matched by the cold touch of aluminium.&nbsp; &nbsp;With our skilled craftsman shaping your windows into stunning designs that are unrivalled in quality and design.</p> <p><strong>Various Window Styles</strong></p> <p>Wooden windows offer a large variety of <a href="https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/wooden-windows-2">windows styles</a>&nbsp;to match your architectural design and price point. We offer large <a href="https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/full-pane-windows-mid-level-window-range">full pane </a>windows to the more traditional <a href="https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/cottage-pane-windows-mid-level-window-range">cottage pane windows</a>&nbsp;and <a href="https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/sliding-sash-windows">sliding sash windows</a>&nbsp;as well as many more other window types.</p> <p><strong>Better Insulation</strong></p> <p>Wooden windows have far superior insulation properties that will keep your home much warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. This is because they allow less heat to pass through the window sash &amp; frame then aluminium windows but also because the inside surface will be better insulated so will be much warmer if you&rsquo;re sitting near the window. These greater insulation properties create high energy savings since you do not need to rely on your heaters or aircon as much. Nowhere better is this illustrated then in the Northern European countries such as Switzerland where all windows are made of wood to help insulate from the icy cold.</p> <p><strong>Easy Low Maintenance</strong></p> <p>One of the biggest complaints about wooden windows is maintenance, but since the introduction of water based sealers this is no longer an issue as they are far superior to varnish. If you treat the windows correctly with a good quality water based sealer such as <a href="http://rystix.co.za/">Rystix</a>&nbsp;you should only have to varnish or oil the windows every 4 years or so depending on the environment. As long as they are properly treated the windows should last a lifetime.</p> <p><strong>High Quality Wood</strong></p> <p>Not all timber types are equal when it comes to wooden windows. Doors Direct only uses high quality kiln dried meranti timber which will last far longer than pine windows as it is a solid hardwood.</p> <p><strong>Eco Friendly &amp; Sustainable</strong></p> <p>Timber is a natural product that is one of the only renewable natural resources which is increasing its reserve sizes each year while aluminium on the other hand needs to be mined which strips the land of its natural resources and will not be renewed. Meranti windows have much smaller carbon foot print then steel or aluminium windows so it is much more environmentally friendly.&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>Security that looks good to</strong></p> <p>With our patented <a href="https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/strongwood-windows-security-window-range">Strongwood</a>&nbsp;window technology you have an attractive security solution to traditional unsightly burglar bars that detract from the beauty of your home. Solid steel bars are encased in the solid meranti which extend the full length of the window. <a href="https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/strongwood-1">Click here </a>to find out more.</p> <p>So when it comes to deciding on your new <a href="https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/">windows </a>choose wisely and choose wooden windows&nbsp;</p> <p>Follow us - <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Doors-Direct/438316429666059?fref=ts" target="_blank">Doors Direct on facebook&nbsp;<img src="http://www.doorsdirect.co.za/Content/Images/uploaded/blog/fb_icon_325x325.png" alt="" width="31" height="31" /></a></p>urn:store:1:blog:post:10https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/wooden-door-frame-installation-tipsWooden Door Frame Installation Tips<p>The most important thing to bear in mind when <a href="http://www.doorsdirect.co.za/">installing door frames</a>&nbsp;is to ensure that once your final floor levels are obtained, the inside height of the door frame remains as close as possible to your door height. &nbsp;(A standard door is 2032 mm high.)</p> <p>We often see <a href="http://www.doorsdirect.co.za/">doors</a>&nbsp;which have had to be excessively trimmed to fit into a door frame. &nbsp;The reason for this is normally that the contractor has not taken the final floor levels into consideration when building in the door frame, and he has buried the door frame into the screed and then tiled or laid carpets on top of this. &nbsp;Whatever the original height of the door frame was, it is now effectively a lot smaller, because the door frame is now sunken into the floor, by sometimes as much as 75mm. &nbsp;The only way to now fit the door is to trim the door by this amount. &nbsp;This excessive trimming of the door reduces the structural integrity of the door.&nbsp;</p> <p>We recommend that when building in door frames, a 75mm nail is punched into the bottom of each of the door frame stiles. &nbsp;This achieves three things.&nbsp;</p> <ol> <li>You can set the door frame to the correct height.</li> <li>You can &ldquo;plum&rdquo; the door frame level by merely tapping on either side of the frame.</li> <li>The door frame does not absorb moisture from the concrete through the exposed end grain.</li> </ol> <p>&nbsp;Another option is to order the door frames slightly longer than the doors.&nbsp;</p> <p><sub>&nbsp;Follow us:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Doors-Direct/438316429666059?fref=ts">Doors Direct</a>&nbsp;on Facebook&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Doors-Direct/438316429666059?fref=ts"><img src="http://www.doorsdirect.co.za/Content/Images/uploaded/blog/fb_icon_325x325.png" alt="" width="31" height="31" /></a></sub></p>urn:store:1:blog:post:9https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/home-window-securityHome Window Security<p><img src="/Content/Images/uploaded/blog/Bay-windows.jpg" alt="Bay Windows - Doors Direct" width="300" height="226" /></p> <p>Imagine how scary it would be to wake up in the middle of the night and realize an intruder has gained access to your home. Protecting against a break-in might mean investing in a professionally installed and monitored home security system, but that shouldn&rsquo;t be the first step.</p> <p>Begin by conducting your own home security check; after you&rsquo;ve checked all of your home&rsquo;s exterior doors for weak spots, move on to examine its <a href="http://www.doorsdirect.co.za/">windows</a>.</p> <p><strong>Check ground-floor and basement windows</strong></p> <p>Ground-floor and basement windows are more likely to be targeted than those on the second floor, and deserve the most attention. The exception is those second-floor windows that can be easily accessed by a deck or other elevated structure outside the home.</p> <p>Start your home security check by looking at your ground-floor windows from afar. Are they blocked by high shrubbery? Bushes give ideal cover for someone planning to break or force open a window; cut greenery back so that front windows are fully visible from the street.</p> <p><strong>Keep locks locked</strong></p> <p>Make sure all windows can be opened, closed, and locked with relative ease&mdash;and then remember to keep them locked whenever you&rsquo;re not around. The biggest problem that occurs with windows is when home owners exit their home and leave windows wide open&mdash;and vulnerable.</p> <p>In spring and fall, when daytime temperatures swing and windows are frequently opened and closed, get in the habit of locking windows as you shut them.</p> <p><strong>Install simple security devices</strong></p> <p>Add blocking devices to the most easily accessed windows so they can&rsquo;t be opened from outside.</p> <p>Wooden dowels placed in the track block windows that slide horizontally, and require no installation.</p> <p>Steel locking pins (about R80 each), inserted in small holes that must be drilled through the frames, prevent vertically-sliding windows from being opened.</p> <p>If you install a home security system later, the pros will install glass-break sensors on your most vulnerable windows.</p> <p><strong>Check garage windows</strong></p> <p>Garage windows are often forgotten&mdash;give them a home security check to make sure they&rsquo;re securely locked. Install curtains or apply translucent security film on garage windows so that valuables aren&rsquo;t readily visible. Thieves are more likely to attempt a break-in if they see items worth stealing.</p> <p>Follow us: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Doors-Direct/438316429666059?fref=ts">Doors Direct</a>&nbsp;on Facebook&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Doors-Direct/438316429666059?fref=ts"><img src="/Content/Images/uploaded/blog/fb_icon_325x325.png" alt="" width="31" height="31" /></a></p> <p>Source -&nbsp;<a href="http://www.houselogic.com/home-advice/home-security/do-it-yourself-home-security-windows-may-leave-you-vulnerable/" target="_blank">House Logic</a></p>urn:store:1:blog:post:8https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/the-future-of-door-frames-4everframeThe Future of door frames - 4Everframe<p><img src="/Content/Images/uploaded/4everframe-door-frame.jpg" alt="composite door frame" width="870" height="230" /></p> <p>Our composite <a href="http://www.doorsdirect.co.za/">door frame</a>&nbsp;combines all the strength and convenience of wood door frames with enhanced properties that make it moisture and insect resistant.</p> <p>No longer have to worry about a steel door frame that will rust and is bulky to transport nor have to worry about a door frame that will absorb moisture and rot like wood.</p> <p>4Everframe is a wood plastic composite door frame manufactured from recycled wood &amp; pvc plastic.</p> <p>These eco-friendly frames are also easier to store and transport as they can be clipped together on-site.</p> <p>If you live in High-humidity, high-moisture environments or have extreme weather exposure areas 4Everframe can help you.</p> <p>If you have specific environmental considerations &ndash; such as salt spray, high insect populations, or moss &ndash; then 4Everframe is right for you, because it has anti-insect, anti-fungal, and rot-resistant properties.</p> <p>The 4Everframe can be painted or left in its natural brown wood colour. You treat 4Everframe just like a traditional door frame, it can be cut drilled or screwed and you hang your door on it identically to a timber frame.</p> <p>4Everframe is the only wood plastic composite door frame available in South Africa and is sold exclusively through&nbsp;<a href="http://www.doorsdirect.co.za/">Doors Direct.</a></p> <p>The future of door frames has arrived with 4Everframe.</p> <p><a href="http://www.doorsdirect.co.za/4-everframe-unassembled-813-x-2032-wood-plastic-composite-doorframe-2">Click here to buy online.</a></p> <p>Follow us:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Doors-Direct/438316429666059?fref=ts">Doors Direct</a>&nbsp;on Facebook&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Doors-Direct/438316429666059?fref=ts"><img src="/Content/Images/uploaded/blog/fb_icon_325x325.png" alt="" width="31" height="31" /></a></p>urn:store:1:blog:post:7https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/tips-for-installing-wooden-windowsTips for Installing Wooden Windows<p><strong>Here are some tips for installing Wooden Windows that we have learnt over the last 35 years.</strong></p> <p>When installing <a href="http://www.doorsdirect.co.za/">timber windows</a>, it is of the utmost importance, that the external plaster does not encapsulate the base of the window frame, as water will get in between the wood and the plaster, due to the different expansion coefficients of timber and plaster. This trapped water will be unable to escape, because of the DPC, and will cause the timber to ultimately rot.&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>Make sure the wooden windows are the right way round.</strong></p> <p>When installing your windows, please ensure that they are not upside down or inside out. Check that the window frame is installed perfectly level and square, and make sure that the lintels have been propped up for at least two weeks, prior to the frame being installed. Remember that there should be a gap of between 5 &amp; 10 mm between the top of the lintel and the top of the window frame. The lintel must not be resting on the frame.</p> <p><strong>Glazing Windows</strong></p> <p>When glazing <a href="http://www.doorsdirect.co.za/">meranti windows</a>, you must ensure that before you fix the glazing beads back into wooden windows that you have sealed the glazing beads all round, taking particular care to thoroughly seal the end grain where the glazing bead has been mitered. Don’t forget to also seal the rebate on the window or door before fixing the glass. To prevent water leaking into the house, you must always glaze up against either silicone or putty.&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>Forcing Windows Closed during construction</strong></p> <p>When visiting construction sites, we often come across windows which have been forced closed, not withstanding the fact that there is concrete or plaster in the rebate of the frame or sash. This has the effect of causing the sashes to warp and also causes the handles or stays to loosen. Please ensure that before attempting to close your windows, the inside of the frame and sash are free of any debris which could hinder the smooth operation of the window.</p> <p>Follow us:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Doors-Direct/438316429666059?fref=ts">Doors Direct</a>&nbsp;on Facebook&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Doors-Direct/438316429666059?fref=ts"><img src="/Content/Images/uploaded/blog/fb_icon_325x325.png" alt="" width="31" height="31" /></a></p>urn:store:1:blog:post:6https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/painting-wooden-sliding-sash-windowsPainting Wooden Sliding Sash Windows<p><strong><img src="/Content/Images/uploaded/blog/sliding sash windows.jpg" alt="Wooden Sliding Sash Window - Doors Direct" width="189" height="142" /><img src="/Content/Images/uploaded/blog/6_5.jpg" alt="" width="189" height="142" /></strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>Sliding Sash Windows</strong>&nbsp;have become increasingly popular over the last couple of years. We find that an increasing number of customers are painting their wooden windows, and unless this is done correctly, all sorts of problems can occur.&nbsp;<strong>Doors Direct Sliding Sash windows</strong>&nbsp;are designed in such a way, that the sashes can be easily removed for painting.</p> <p>This is done by removing the beading on the inside as well as on the outside of the window frame. You must ensure that all surfaces of the wooden window frame, the sash as well as the beading are painted with a good quality pink primer, prior to applying undercoat.&nbsp;The paint primer must first be applied to all surfaces including surfaces that will not visible after installation. Primers are a specialised surface sealer that prepares the surface of the timber for further painting they also contain special additives to prevent problems such as described above</p> <p><strong>Doors Direct sells three different styles</strong>&nbsp;of sliding sash windows, the full pane sliding sash windows, Victorian sliding sash windows and Cape Dutch Sliding sash window.&nbsp;<strong>To find out the price</strong>&nbsp;of our sliding sash windows please&nbsp;<a href="http://www.doorsdirect.co.za/sliding-sash-windows">click here.</a></p>urn:store:1:blog:post:5https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/do-you-know-the-right-style-of-door-for-your-homeDo you know the right style of door for your home?<p>Choosing a new door is quite simple if you know the options available to you. Match the style to your type of home.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><img src="/Content/Images/uploaded/doors-flush.jpg" alt="" width="780" height="398" /></p> <h2>Flush Doors</h2> <p>Flush Doors are smooth on both sides, and generally made of <a href="https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/hollow-core">plywood</a>&nbsp;or <a href="https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/supawood-mdf">MDF</a>&nbsp;and are available in hollow or solid core. They are the least expensive and are well suited for modern architecture. Most often these are used internally.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><img src="/Content/Images/uploaded/doors-2panel.jpg" alt="" width="780" height="398" /></p> <h2>Two Panel Doors</h2> <p>As you will see in the pictures there are variations on two-panel designs. By adding an arched top panel the door becomes great for <a href="https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/cape-dutch-door-813-x-2032-2">Cape Dutch</a>&nbsp;or French country style homes.<br />Having a larger panel on the top gives the <a href="https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/2-panel-heavy-bollection-813-x-2032-2">door a traditional look</a>, especially when combined with appropriate hardware set low at the rail level</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><img src="/Content/Images/uploaded/doors-4panels.jpg" alt="" width="780" height="398" /></p> <h2>Four-Panel Doors</h2> <p>Four-panel doors are another variation in traditional architecture. You can find these with hollow cores and in solid wood.<br />These doors will give you an elegant finish. These are a good choice for traditional style d&eacute;cor and formal home entrances</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><img src="/Content/Images/uploaded/doors-6panel.jpg" alt="" width="780" height="398" /></p> <h2>Six-Panel Doors</h2> <p>One of the most common door styles is the six-panel configuration. You should be able to find this door with a less-expensive hollow core as well as in solid wood.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2><br />8-21 Panel</h2> <p>More panels are suited to more modern house designs. There are options available in hollow core and solid wood. A classic pattern of square panels.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><img src="/Content/Images/uploaded/arched.jpg" alt="" width="780" height="398" /></p> <h2>Specialty Doors</h2> <p>Once you move away from standard size and shape doors you will end up spending more. This door arched door will require an arched jamb. The arched look is ideal for Mediterranean style homes, especially with Spanish influences. <a href="https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/purposemadejoinery">Doors Direct is able to custom craft doors to your specifications</a>.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><img src="/Content/Images/uploaded/doors-french.jpg" alt="" width="780" height="398" /></p> <h2>French Doors</h2> <p><a href="https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/">French doors</a>&nbsp;have a frame around one or more transparent panels, usually filled with glass. The goal is to maximize light in a room. Used on external walls they connect the house with the outdoors and allow light into the room<br /><a href="https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/patio-doors-2">French doors</a>&nbsp;can also be used internally in areas meant to put a room of your home on display, like music rooms, home offices, living rooms, Dining rooms, etc.<br />If you are going all-out on character and have an older style Victorian house, stained glass might be the way to go.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><img src="/Content/Images/uploaded/doors-pivot.jpg" alt="" width="780" height="398" /></p> <h2>Pivot Doors</h2> <p>Oversized and dramatic, <a href="https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/pivot-entrance-doors-2">pivot doors</a>&nbsp;are available in engineered wood and in solid wood. Perfect for a main entrance in a modern home.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><img src="/Content/Images/uploaded/doors-folding.jpg" alt="" width="780" height="398" /></p> <h2>Folding Stacking Doors</h2> <p>Sliding / folding doors are <a href="https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/folding-stacking-doors-2">stackable folding doors</a>&nbsp;of multiple panels that slide and stack neatly to one or two sides.<br />This allows for a seamless transition between indoors and outside entertainment areas free of any barrier or obstruction.<br />With multiple combination openings of up to 10 or 12 meters can be easily managed</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><img src="/Content/Images/uploaded/doors-carved.jpg" alt="" width="780" height="398" /></p> <h2>Carved Doors</h2> <p>When you want a unique entrance why not combine your love of handcraft and natural materials and opt for a carved door. It&rsquo;s <a href="https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/carved-front-doors-2">African and unique</a>&nbsp;and locally made.</p>urn:store:1:blog:post:4https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/create-a-welcoming-exterior-for-your-homeCreate a welcoming exterior for your home<p>Your home&rsquo;s front door entry is the focal point when someone visits your home.&nbsp; You don&rsquo;t have to spend big to make a large impression.&nbsp; With a small bit of elbow grease and some basic tools you can make a big difference</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><img src="/Content/Images/uploaded/numbers.jpg" alt="" width="780" height="398" /></p> <p><strong>Hardware</strong></p> <p>Think house numbers, the entry door lock, and light fittings overhead light.&nbsp; These elements can all add style and interest.&nbsp; Most people inherit them from the previous owner and forget about them or add elements as needed.</p> <p>By thinking of these as a set that function collectively you can upgrade your home.&nbsp; Brass elements on a traditional home, brushed nickel on a more contemporary home. &nbsp;Replace that rusty light fitting with something new.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><img src="/Content/Images/uploaded/entrancedoors.jpg" alt="" width="780" height="398" /></p> <p><strong>Your front Door</strong></p> <p>We often forget to clean off grimy marks around the door handle or to polish the metal fixtures.&nbsp; If you are feeling more adventurous paint the door a <a href="https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/what-your-door-colour-says-about-you">new colour</a>&nbsp;or if the doors lacks personality replace the door with something that fits your style better. Doors Direct allows you to order your new<a href="https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/exterior-doors-2"> entrance door</a> online and it will be delivered directly to your home.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><img src="/Content/Images/uploaded/symmetry.jpg" alt="" width="780" height="398" /></p> <p><strong>Perfect Symmetry</strong></p> <p>Symmetry is simple to arrange and is pleasing to the eye.&nbsp; Use pairs of sidelights or pairs of planters to create a symmetrical composition</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><img src="/Content/Images/uploaded/lighting.jpg" alt="" width="780" height="398" /></p> <p><strong>Lighting</strong></p> <p>Low voltage or solar landscape lighting provides security and makes an impact to your home&rsquo;s curb appeal.&nbsp; Accent trees or illuminate the path.&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><img src="/Content/Images/uploaded/containergarden.jpg" alt="" width="780" height="398" /></p> <p><strong>Create a garden</strong></p> <p>A container garden is a quick and affordable way to create a welcoming entrance.&nbsp; Add colour with containers from the nursery filled with bright annuals such as impatiens, petunias or begonias</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;Next week we are going to talk about how to match the style of door to your style of home.&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p>urn:store:1:blog:post:3https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/what-your-door-colour-says-about-youWhat your door colour says about you<p>The colours we choose to surround ourselves with reveal a lot about us. Are you outgoing with a love for bright colours? Are you more low-key and prefer subdued colours</p> <p>The colour you choose for your front door sends a strong message and provides insight on how you see your home.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><img src="/Content/Images/uploaded/bluedoors.jpg" alt="" width="780" height="400" /></p> <p><strong>Blue.</strong> If you want to go blue you are well grounded and are not swayed by others. Blue is strongly associated with tranquillity and calmness. Blue is an abundant colour, it's the colour of sky and water. Blue symbolizes trust, loyalty, wisdom, confidence, intelligence, faith, truth, and heaven.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;<img src="/Content/Images/uploaded/yellowdoors.jpg" alt="" width="780" height="400" /></p> <p><strong>Yellow.</strong> Are you dying to paint your front door yellow? You like to look at life with a positive attitude. Yellow produces a warming effect, arouses cheerfulness and stimulates mental activity.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><img src="/Content/Images/uploaded/greendoors.jpg" alt="" width="780" height="400" /></p> <p><strong>Green.</strong> Green is an obvious choice for people with a passion for gardens and the outdoors. Green represents balance, peace, compassion, growth, renewal, and harmony. Duck Egg and Sage are popular for a 'country chic' look.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><img src="/Content/Images/uploaded/white-doors.jpg" alt="" width="780" height="400" /></p> <p><strong>White:</strong> A crisp white door is for those who are (or strive to be) organised, neat and clean. White is associated with light, goodness, innocence, purity, and virginity. It is considered to be the colour of perfection.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><img src="/Content/Images/uploaded/purple.jpg" alt="" width="780" height="400" /></p> <p><strong>Purple.</strong> Purple combines the stability of blue and the energy of red. You&rsquo;re comfortable taking risks and dreaming big.&nbsp; Purple is associated with nobility and power as well as creativity, mystery, and magic.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;<img src="/Content/Images/uploaded/painting-door-red.jpg" alt="" width="780" height="400" /></p> <p><strong>Red.</strong>&nbsp; Red is a powerful colour with very high visibility, which is why stop signs, stoplights, and fire equipment are usually painted red. A red door calls for attention, so you&rsquo;re not afraid of being&nbsp; noticed. You are telling the world that your home is full of&nbsp; energy and excitement. In Feng Shui, a red front door means &ldquo;welcome.&rdquo;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><img src="/Content/Images/uploaded/orange-doors.jpg" alt="" width="780" height="400" /></p> <p><strong>Orange:</strong> Orange corresponds to desire, sexual passion, pleasure, domination, and thirst for action.&nbsp;&nbsp; Since you're a social butterfly and love to entertain you'll enjoy the attention that this highly visible colour brings</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><img src="/Content/Images/uploaded/browndoors.jpg" alt="" width="780" height="400" /></p> <p><strong>Brown.</strong> Whether painted or stained, a brown front door looks natural and organic, but it can send mixed messages in terms of colour psychology. On the one hand, brown conveys warmth, stability, and reliability, positive attributes all, but certain darker shades of brown signal a desire for privacy, even isolation.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><img src="/Content/Images/uploaded/blackdoors.jpg" alt="" width="780" height="400" /></p> <p><strong>Black.</strong> Those who paint the front door black are communicating something entirely different about their homes. A black front door projects strength, sophistication, power, and authority. Black is considered to be a very formal, elegant, and prestigious colour.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p>urn:store:1:blog:post:1https://www.doorsdirect.co.za/do-not-be-afraid-of-colourDo not be afraid of colour<p>Many people are afraid of painting wooden doors. &nbsp;</p> <p>The two main arguments generally go as follows</p> <p>Once you paint&nbsp;you can never go back. This is not exactly true, going back to wood is a hassle and is time consuming. &nbsp;The other point we make is why would you want to go back? &nbsp;Once you have painted you have a choice of all the colours under the sun why would you want to go back to brown?</p> <p>It's a waste to paint real wood is other argument that often comes up. &nbsp;Paint will preserve the wood.&nbsp;Painted wooden doors are actually well protected from the elements and will generally be in better&nbsp;condition under the paint 20 years on than a door that is not painted. &nbsp;</p> <p>A new coat of paint on your front door can breath all new life into your home, and it&rsquo;s a lot easier than you may think! &nbsp;Yes, you will have to put in some elbow grease, but it shouldn&rsquo;t take you more than a day to complete.</p> <p>Because your front door is open to the elements outside, you&rsquo;ll want to use an acrylic latex paint with an oil-based primer; this will cover any old paint left on the door. &nbsp;However, if you have a brand new door that has never been painted, you are able to use an oil-based paint instead.</p> <p><img src="/Content/Images/uploaded/9d32a556a4c1c30b2c76e47a04f3e088.jpg" alt="" width="517" height="599" /></p>