Questions About Heritage External French Doors

What are Heritage style doors?

Heritage style doors bring back the classic industrial steel look, made popular in the late 1800s. With their slim black frames and grid-like glazing bars, they echo the designs found in early 20th-century commercial and public buildings..

Originally crafted from steel to support large glass panels, these doors were strong but heavy, expensive, and prone to rust. Today, we replicate the look using lightweight, durable, low-maintenance aluminium frames. Aluminium offers the same strength and sleek appearance as steel but is more affordable and easier to handle.

This industrial-inspired design works beautifully for many patio door styles—bifold, sliding, or French double doors. Heritage style French doors have large glass panels to let in plenty of natural light. They have slim frames for a light and open feel. The dark finish makes a strong focal point inside and outside..

Why are they called Heritage style doors?

The name comes from their beginnings in England during the 1880s. People used them in important buildings like the Houses of Parliament and the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. Their industrial elegance and practical design have kept them in demand for over a century..

While the style has evolved, it remains a favourite for art deco, period, and contemporary homes worldwide.

What era do Heritage style doors belong to?

They were first introduced in the 1880s. However, they became most famous during the art deco period of the 1920s and 1930s. During this time, steel and concrete shaped modern architecture.

Today, these French doors have double glazing and special aluminium frames. They mix vintage style with modern efficiency.

They keep homes warm and let in plenty of light. Their lightweight design makes them easy to use. This is especially helpful for people who struggle with heavy steel doors.

Are steel look patio doors double glazed?

Yes. All of our steel-look aluminium French doors feature low-E toughened double glazing as standard. This ensures excellent energy efficiency—keeping warmth in, reducing heat loss, and maintaining comfort year-round.

Are steel look doors energy efficient?

They can be—and ours are. Older aluminum frames were known for bad insulation. However, our thermally broken aluminum frames and low-E double glazing provide great thermal performance. They achieve a rating of 1.5 W/m²K, which is better than UK Building Regulation standards.

The thermal break is an insulating barrier inside the frame. It stops heat from escaping and cold from coming in. This gives you the classic look of steel along with the comfort of modern technology.

What are the benefits of steel look aluminium doors?

• Cost-effective – Cheaper to manufacture and purchase than steel.

• Durable – Aluminium frames can last up to 30 years with minimal maintenance.

• Low-maintenance – No warping, rotting, or rusting, and no need for regular painting.

• Stylish – Dark, slim frames stay looking cleaner for longer and are easy to wipe down.

How much do steel look patio doors cost?

Our Rhino Aluminium Heritage range starts at just below £1,650. This price includes frames, handles, and locks. Plus, we offer free delivery to the UK mainland. Prices vary with size and optional extras such as sidelights. 

While sidelights can raise the cost, these doors can also increase your home’s value thanks to their style and quality.

Are Heritage style doors secure?

Yes. They feature:

• Multi-point locking systems for maximum security.

• 4mm toughened safety glass—up to 5× stronger than standard glass.

• Internally beaded glazing to prevent glass removal from outside.

With robust aluminium frames and modern locking technology, Heritage style doors are every bit as secure—if not more so—than other patio door options.