Glazed and full-vision sectional garage doors

Window inserts or full vision?

Window inserts are the simple choice: a row of glazed panels in one section of an otherwise solid door. A full-vision door is a different construction, an aluminium frame with glazing throughout, which lets in far more light and makes a design statement.

What about privacy?

Frosted, obscured or tinted glazing infills keep the light while hiding what is inside. On full-vision doors this is the usual choice for homes.

Are glazed doors secure?

Glazed panels are generally polycarbonate or safety glazing, depending on the range. A glazed door is still locked by the operator or a lock, but it naturally shows more than a solid door, which is one reason obscured glazing is popular.

Do windows reduce insulation?

Yes, slightly. Glazed panels lose more heat than insulated steel panels, and full-vision doors lose more again unless thermally broken frames and insulated glazing are specified.

Are full-vision doors heavier?

Aluminium and glazing can weigh more than steel panels of the same size, so springs and operators are sized to suit.

What options are there?

• Window insert rowsRectangular or decorative inserts in one section.
• Full-vision aluminiumGlazed throughout in an aluminium frame.
• Obscured infillsFrosted or tinted for privacy.
• Frame coloursBlack, anthracite, silver and RAL colours.

Key facts

Construction	Steel with inserts, or aluminium full-vision
Glazing	Polycarbonate or safety glazing (range dependent)
Privacy	Clear, obscured or tinted
Insulation	Lower than solid insulated panels
Guide price	£5,995–£7,995 inc VAT

Who is it for?

Best suited to contemporary homes, garages used as workshops or studios, and anyone wanting daylight in the garage.

Do I need permission?

Replacing a garage door does not normally need planning permission anywhere in the UK. The usual exceptions are listed buildings, conservation areas, Article 4 areas in England and newer estates where planning conditions restrict changes to garages. Planning rules by nation →