Request a Quote

Christmas really is the most magical time of the year.

With so many of us putting up our trees by December 1st this year, you might be wondering what else can add a little extra Christmas cheer to your home.

Don’t forget the festive potential of decorating your windows and doors—they’re perfect for spreading holiday magic beyond just the tree and fireplace!

Read on for top ideas to bring Christmas charm to your windows and doors.

Take wreath inspiration from the US 

As you welcome more guests into your home this Christmas season, you’ll want to make a memorable first impression. While a wreath on the front door is a classic touch, why not take it a step further?

In the US, it’s popular to add wreaths to both windows and doors—The Irish are also known for their love of grand holiday decor, and Christmas is no exception.

Placing matching wreaths with red bows on each window creates a beautiful, coordinated look that shines from both inside and outside your home.

Add twinkling lights

Embrace the festive spirit by filling your home with all kinds of glowing lights.

Drape fairy lights, place lanterns, and arrange candles around your doors and windows. Lighting an advent candle each night can also become a fun, heartwarming tradition.

Decorating windows and doors with lights is an affordable way to bring the cozy warmth of the season into your home.

Add ornaments to windowsills

You’ve likely gathered a variety of festive knick-knacks, snow globes, and Christmas ornaments over the years.

From a handmade Father Christmas crafted by your children to a classic Nativity scene, adorning your windowsills with these decorations is always a great idea.

For an elegant touch, consider adding poinsettias to your windowsills. These beautiful plants are a symbol of Christmas and will brighten up your space beautifully.

The cold weather and longer nights make us spend more time indoors than in other seasons, so it’s essential to keep your home warm and comfortable.

Windows play a key role in keeping out the elements and creating a cozy atmosphere indoors. It’s important to inspect them carefully, as they could be letting in drafts and driving up heating costs.

Learn how to check if your windows are ready for winter or in need of replacement, explore options for window coverings, and get tips on choosing the right replacements.

Observe if they have gaps

Over time, small gaps can develop in older window frames, and even the tiniest opening allows cold air to seep in.

To check for drafts, run your hand along the edges of your windows to feel for cold spots, and carefully inspect the frames and seals for any gaps or cracks. You can also try the candle test: light a candle, hold it near the frames, and if the flame flickers, you’ve likely found a draft.

If you prefer to keep your existing windows, seal any gaps or cracks with caulking or draft excluders to keep the cold air outside.

Install window coverings

In addition to enhancing the look of your windows and improving light and privacy control, insulated window coverings help reduce heat loss and block cold drafts.

Thick thermal curtains are particularly effective at trapping heat from your heating system and blocking drafts. Cellular shades, with their honeycomb structure, are also excellent at insulating by trapping air. For added warmth, you can apply window film to further insulate less efficient windows.

Upgrade to energy efficient windows

If air leaks are severe, simply sealing windows or adding treatments will have limited effect. However, Sean Doyle’s energy-efficient UPVC or Aluminium windows could make a noticeable difference.

While upgrading windows requires a higher initial investment than sealing or adding coverings, the long-term benefits—in both comfort and savings—are far greater.

Sean Doyle’s window collections exceed standard energy ratings, thanks to their highly insulating frames and low-emissivity glazing, ensuring lasting warmth and efficiency.


Windows are constantly subjected to various environmental elements, including dust, soot, pollen, UV radiation, rain, heat, and cold. However, if you invest in high-quality windows, they will prove to be resilient and require minimal maintenance. To ensure that your windows and doors maintain their desired appearance and functionality for many years, it is crucial to provide them with regular care from the very beginning. By doing so, you can maximise their lifespan and enjoy their benefits for decades to come. Not only do long-lasting windows contribute to environmental protection, but they also offer financial advantages by reducing costs in the long run.

What to use for cleaning

When it comes to cleaning windows with aluminium clad frames, the most effective approach involves using a neutral cleaning agent along with a sponge or cloth. On the other hand, for timber frames, there are specialised cleaning and care products specifically designed for this natural material, ensuring gentle treatment. Many offers a dedicated care kit through paint suppliers, which are designed to facilitate maintenance and extend the repainting cycle.

To effectively clean the glass, follow these steps:

  1. Dampen a cloth with a few drops of methylated spirits.
  2. Gently wipe the surface of the glass.
  3. Polish the glass dry using a lint-free cloth.

Avoid using commercial glass cleaners as they can potentially damage the coatings on high-performance glass and the interlay of laminated glass. Ensure that the cleaning cloths you use do not contain any abrasive substances. Additionally, be cautious not to subject the glass to extreme temperature changes, as this may result in thermal fracture. Do not direct hot or cold water directly onto the glass.

Twice a year, it is recommended to clean all hardware to remove dust and dirt. Follow these steps:

  1. Apply a light spray of a corrosion preventative, such as WD40, to hinges, gears, and strikers.
  2. Wipe off excess spray with a dry cloth. Take care not to get these compounds on the timberwork, as they may cause staining.
  3. Clean exposed surfaces by wiping them down with warm soapy water and a soft rag.
  4. Rinse the surfaces thoroughly to remove any soap residue.
  5. Apply the corrosion preventative spray as mentioned earlier after the surfaces have dried.

By following these cleaning guidelines, you can ensure the cleanliness and longevity of your windows and hardware.

Seals need to be wiped regularly with a damp cloth only, chemicals should not be used.

When to clean:

Drainage Openings:

Avoid Using:

Safe Cleaning Method:

Professional Inspection:

When constructing a new home, the considerations are seemingly endless. Cost becomes a key player in decision-making—investing upfront to save in the long run. Windows and doors, crucial components, offer an opportunity for quality choices to pay off in the future.

Opting for high-quality windows and doors isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s an investment in longevity, beauty, and energy efficiency. Moreover, such choices can significantly enhance the resale value of your home. Let’s explore some guiding principles for making informed decisions.

PLACEMENT OF WINDOWS

The positioning of windows is influenced by factors such as environment, climate, and house design. If you’re blessed with a breathtaking view, large windows can help you fully embrace it. Conversely, if neighbors are in close proximity, skylights might be a consideration, allowing ample natural light without compromising privacy.

The orientation of windows matters too. South-facing windows, larger to capture winter sun, contrast with east and west-facing ones, which should be sufficient for natural light but smaller and well-insulated.

INSULATION

Energy-efficient windows are a smart investment, saving on heating and cooling expenses. On the flip side, poorly installed or inadequately treated glass can lead to future problems.

Double-glazed windows with sun-reflecting treatments act as effective heat barriers. Consider ‘broken’ aluminum frames, featuring a non-heat-conductive material between aluminum layers, for excellent insulation.

Proper installation of glass doors and windows is crucial to minimize ‘air leakage.’ Even top-quality glass or frames won’t suffice if the installation is subpar, leading to discomfort in extreme weather.

While installing aluminum windows and doors can be complex, consulting a professional is advisable. Many manufacturers offer installation services or provide detailed instructions for confident DIYers.

Given the myriad factors at play, exploring custom windows and doors for your new build is worthwhile. Tailored to your specifications, they not only enhance aesthetics but also contribute significantly to your home’s energy efficiency rating.

A Life Without Glass

The earliest windows were, unsurprisingly, made without glass. What may astonish you, however, is the materials used to construct windows back then. Initially, windows were simply openings in the wall to allow natural light to enter. Later, thin animal hides were stretched over these openings to offer some elemental protection while still permitting soft light to filter through. Shutters could be closed in bad weather to protect those inside.

Early Glass

During the Roman era, glassmaking was quite advanced. Panes of glassy pebbles were set in wooden frames that allowed some light through, though they were not transparent. The introduction of clear glass panes occurred in the late 3rd century, when blown glass cylinders were created and then thinly sliced to produce curvy pieces of transparent glass.

Back to Basics

Unfortunately, when the Roman Empire collapsed and history entered the Dark Ages, this technology was lost. Cathedrals continued to create stained glass windows using small pieces of glass, but for the general populace, this was no longer available. The return of wooden shutters and thin animal hides ensued. Windows had to remain small, and insulating the animal hide-covered openings was nearly impossible. People turned to the use of thinly sliced pieces of horn fastened together to provide better insulation, but these windows were costly to produce and saw little use among common homes.

Windows Make A Comeback

In the Middle Ages, glassmakers began to redevelop the glass window. The French developed crown glass – a hollow bubble spun into flattened discs and laced together in lead panes (the image above is a great example of crown glass). Other glassmakers also “rediscovered” the cylinder glass technique used by the Romans over a millennium earlier. This time, however, the technology was here to stay – and glass entered the homes of the wealthy – although it was still incredibly expensive. Nobles would often routinely take their glass panes down and store them carefully when they weren’t in their homes to ensure they were not broken.

Versailles – A Legacy in the Window Industry

In the late 17th century, the French continued improving glass technology, and the clear glass window pane was cast. The Palace of Versailles – built in the 1680s – used this new and expensive technology to create the long-latticed windows that French Doors and Windows are still known for today. Yet again, glass remained quite a luxury. Apart from the wealthy, the common person of this period could only dream of having a clear glass covering for their windows.

Glass for the Masses

Glass continued to be a luxury for many years, despite improved methods for its creation. England eventually repealed duties on windows, reducing its price by about 50% in the early 19th century. People had never seen so many glass windows and could finally afford them!

Later, the use of steel as load-bearing columns in architecture allowed for the installation of “curtain walls.” Large floor-to-ceiling windows could now be used in designs, as the wall no longer needed to support the weight of the structure. This led to the modern skyscraper look of the early 20th century.

The evolution of the glass window is surprisingly recent for an item we routinely take for granted. Many are aware of how much the automotive industry or the internet have revolutionised the lives of ordinary people, but the introduction of glass windows not only changed the designs possible for people – it completely transformed our indoor environment. Insulated windows make temperature control feasible, and large clear windows are shown to increase happiness and productivity! Imagine your office life with the wind, rain, smells, and noises of the outside world constantly pouring in through a hole in the wall, and take a moment to thank your glass windows for all that they contribute to our modern lifestyles.

When the summer heat kicks in, some conservatories can quickly become uncomfortable due to the excess heat. However, with a few simple tweaks, you can create a cool and enjoyable space in your conservatory.

Whether you already have a conservatory or are thinking about getting one, consider these tips to keep it comfortably cool.

Did you know that Ireland experiences less extreme temperature variations compared to other countries, making it an ideal place to enjoy your conservatory throughout the year?

SOLID ROOFS OR SOLAR CONTROL ROOFS

Putting a solid roof on your conservatory is a great way to keep it cool and comfortable during the warmer months.

Unlike traditional glass or polycarbonate roofs, solid roofs offer better insulation, reducing heat transfer and keeping the space more pleasant on hot summer days. They also help with energy efficiency, making them a smart choice.

BI-FOLDING DOORS

To improve airflow and temperature control, consider installing bi-folding doors in your conservatory.

These popular doors are designed to enhance natural ventilation, letting fresh air circulate throughout the space.

When fully opened, they create a wide opening that seamlessly connects your indoor and outdoor areas, providing a versatile and airy environment.

ADDITIONAL TIPS FOR COOLING

Ensure proper ventilation in your conservatory by installing ceiling fans or windows that can be opened. This promotes air circulation and helps keep the space cool.

Another effective strategy is to add potted plants or greenery. Plants naturally release moisture through transpiration, cooling the surrounding air and adding a touch of natural beauty to your conservatory.

Are you planning to replace your windows but have some lingering questions on your mind? We understand that it can be overwhelming to navigate through home renovations, especially when it comes to important elements like windows. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of common window replacement questions and provided answers to help you prepare and make informed decisions for your project. Let’s dive in!

Key Takeaways:

What are the Benefits of Window Replacement?

As experts in residential window replacement, we know that replacing old or damaged windows can bring numerous advantages. Here are some of the most significant benefits of window replacement:

Additional Questions:

We hope this information has been helpful. If you have any further questions about window replacement, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

Please note that the above information is general in nature. For specific advice on your window replacement project, please consult with a us.

What is the Window Replacement Process?

We know that understanding the window replacement process is essential for a successful project. We follow a systematic approach to ensure that your new windows are installed safely and efficiently. Here are the steps involved:

  1. Measuring: Our team will visit your home to measure your existing windows accurately. This step ensures that the new windows fit perfectly in the existing openings and avoid any further adjustments.
  2. Ordering: We’ll help you choose the right type, style, and colour of windows that match your home’s architectural design. We’ll then start manufacturing and arrange for the installation date.
  3. Removal of the old windows: On the installation date, we’ll remove your old windows using specialised tools and techniques to minimise any disruption to your home.
  4. Installation of new windows: Our expert team will install your new windows using innovative techniques to ensure the best fit and finish possible. We’ll secure the frames, add insulation, and make any necessary adjustments to guarantee optimal functionality.
  5. Post-installation inspection: After installation, we’ll conduct a thorough inspection to ensure that the new windows are correctly installed and functioning correctly. We’ll also clean up any debris and dispose of the old windows, leaving your home clean and tidy.

Our team at Sean Doyle Windows & Doors is committed to providing you with quality service and products. We prioritise your comfort and convenience throughout the entire window replacement process.

Windows and doors play a substantial role in keeping your home comfortable, liveable, and safe. Although they do have a lifespan of their own, there are plenty of reasons other than physical damage and aesthetic differences to have them replaced. Here are a few pointers to look for, so you know when it’s time to replace your windows and doors.

THEY’RE NOT PERFORMING OPTIMALLY

When it comes to your windows and doors, functionality is crucial, pun not intended. If you have windows and doors that are hard to open or close, have locks that are corroded, or let in chilly drafts, they are definitely not performing at their best and may compromise the security of your home. It’s advisable to replace them as soon as you can!

NOISE PENETRATION

If you find yourself living on a bustling street or dealing with noisy neighbors that disturb your sleep, it might be worth considering replacing your doors and windows with options that offer better sound resistance. Ensuring a peaceful night’s sleep is essential, so exploring sound-resistant alternatives could be a wise decision.

YOU WANT TO REDUCE YOUR ENERGY BILLS

Your windows and doors can contribute to lowering your energy consumption and reducing your carbon footprint. Allow us to introduce the remarkable advancements of Thermal Breaking and Solar Comfort technologies, which incorporate temperature-regulating technology and double glazing to keep your home comfortably warm in winter and cool in summer.

By relying less on artificial air conditioning and heating, you’ll notice a significant improvement in your power bills. You can thank us later for the cost savings and environmental benefits!

YOU’RE RENOVATING A HERITAGE HOME

While we appreciate homes with character, it’s important to consider that older windows may compromise security and pose safety hazards during emergencies. Refreshing your heritage home in 2023 without compromising its historical significance is an excellent way to enhance its value. And when it comes to this task, Sean Doyle Windows is the perfect choice for the job!

LEAKS ARE FORMING

Do you notice a couple of little leaks forming on rainy days?

This is a telltale sign that your seals are no longer performing as needed, and are allowing water to make its way between the glass panes and frames. Proceed with caution, as if this issue is left unresolved, it may lead to decay and permanent water damage in the future.

IS IT TIME TO REPLACE YOUR WINDOWS & DOORS?

Don’t leave something as important as your windows and doors to the last minute! If these issues start emerging, it’s best to resolve it as quickly as possible.

That’s where we come in! Feel free to contact us today to get your window replacements ready to go.

Dealing with a door that sticks can be a frustrating issue faced by many households, no matter the season. The smooth operation of opening and closing doors is crucial for their functionality. If you’re encountering difficulties with a door that won’t close properly or is tough to operate, you’ve come to the right spot!

We’re here to shed light on why doors stick and offer straightforward troubleshooting suggestions for addressing this problem. Let’s start by exploring why sticky doors are prevalent concerns among homeowners in Ireland.

Why Doors Stick to the Door Frame

Humidity typically serves as the primary culprit behind sticky doors, as elevated moisture levels prompt material expansion, nudging the door against its frame. While this phenomenon commonly affects wooden doors, steel and fiberglass counterparts can also experience sticking if the wooden door frame swells.

Though this issue often arises in summer when humidity spikes, it can persist throughout colder months as well. In winter, moisture settling on the door frame can render the door difficult to open, potentially causing lasting damage to hinges and screws.

Beyond environmental factors, several other reasons may hinder a door’s operation, including:

How to Fix a Swollen Door

Learning how to fix a door that sticks due to humidity starts with diagnosing where the door is sticking.

Find the Sticking Point

Sticky doors will make themselves known in one way or another. Look for the following signs to see which door part is sticking to determine what component you need to fix:

Identifying the Source of a Sticky Door: 5 Methods

  1. Scratches and paint damage: Regions exhibiting scratches or torn paint often indicate where sticking or rubbing occurs.
  2. Door alignment: Assess if there’s a narrower gap on one side of the door compared to the other. Run a piece of paper along each side; wherever it snags reveals the door’s sticking points.
  3. Accumulated grime: Noticeable buildup of grime on door frames may contribute to sticking.
  4. Squeaky hinges: The presence of squeaks suggests that lubricating or replacing the hinges could alleviate door stickiness.
  5. Loose screws: Loose screws on the door jamb can impede door operation during both hot and cold seasons.

Fix the Door Hinges


Are you noticing squeaks every time you open or close the door? This annoyance often stems from a malfunctioning hinge. Over time, the hinge pins can lose their lubrication, leading to friction.

To restore smooth operation, begin by applying a multipurpose household oil. Swing the door a few times to help the oil spread. If this doesn’t solve the issue, follow these steps using either a screwdriver or an electric drill with the appropriate bit:

  1. Check if the hinge screws are loose; loose screws can cause the door to sag.
  2. Tighten the hinge screws into their respective screw holes using a screwdriver. Avoid over-tightening, as it can lead to squeaking and resistance.

If the screws still turn without tightening, here’s what you can do:

  1. Replace the existing screws with longer ones, preferably 2½ or 3 inches in length, to better grip the door frame.
  2. Use a drill to remove the current hinge screws, then swap the bit for a masonry drill bit.
  3. Deepen the holes with the masonry drill bit to accommodate the longer screws.
  4. Drive the longer screws into the holes until they are flush with the surface.

Trim the Door Panel

Struggling with your door during extreme temperatures? It could be due to an oversized panel. If previous attempts haven’t resolved the issue, you might need to trim a few inches from the door panel.

For this task, gather a planer, sander, blanket, and newspaper. Once prepared, follow these steps to address a swollen door:

  1. Unscrew the hinge screws to detach the door, then place it on a blanket or newspaper.
  2. Utilize a power planer, hand planer, or belt sander to remove excess material. Adjust the blade angle to the desired amount of wood to be removed, then glide the plane across the surface.
  3. Rehang the door temporarily by the hinges to check if the new size fits. Continue planing until the door no longer sticks to the frame.

How to Fix a Sticky Door Lock

The shifting of doors due to expansion and contraction can cause the latch or deadbolt lock to become sticky. This difficulty in pushing, turning, or pulling the key hampers the door’s opening and closing. Additionally, dirt, grime, and rust accumulation within the lock further obstruct the key’s pathway.

But fear not, here’s a guide on resolving a sticky door lock:

  1. Apply Teflon lubricant or powdered graphite into the lock and insert the key to check for improvements.
  2. If the lock remains problematic even after lubrication, the door’s alignment might be at fault. Verify if the panel fits evenly into the frame by referring to the alignment solutions mentioned above.
  3. If the alignment appears perfect, the issue likely lies within the lock itself, possibly due to damaged parts. Contact a professional locksmith to thoroughly inspect and address the problem with your door lock.

How to Prevent Sticking Doors

Now that you’ve learned how to address a swollen or sticky door, let’s explore preventive measures to avoid recurrence.

Instead of opting for a new door, a more budget-friendly approach is investing in a dehumidifier. This useful device works to reduce the humidity or moisture levels in your home, thereby minimizing the amount of moisture absorbed by your doors and preventing shrinkage. If a dehumidifier isn’t readily available, simply turning on the air conditioner can effectively lower humidity levels!

Maybe It’s Time to Replace Your Sticking Door…

Now that we’ve explored ways to fix a door that sticks due to humidity, it’s evident that while some fixes are within reach, others signal a deeper need for an upgrade.

‍Contact us today for a free estimate!

Just like doors, windows are a functional and aesthetic feature of a home. Through windows, you can regulate ventilation and natural lighting, view the scenery outside, and shield yourself from the elements and intruders. They also ensure your privacy and help protect the contents of both residential and commercial properties.

Energy-efficient windows not only perform the above functions but also help minimise your cooling and heating requirements by regulating indoor temperature. This means energy–saving windows can also reduce your carbon footprint significantly. So, if you’re keen on leading a sustainable lifestyle, energy-efficient windows for houses can make a world of difference.

If you’re looking to make your home energy efficient or need help shopping around for energy-efficient home windows, then this guide can help. Read on to know more about energy-efficient windows and the benefits they offer.

WHAT ARE ENERGY EFFICIENT WINDOWS?

The first question that’s probably on your mind is: What are energy-efficient windows?

Also known as energy-saving windows, energy-efficient windows are designed to prevent heated or cooled air from seeping out of the interior living spaces of your home. This means that during winter, they help to keep your home consistently warm, whilst, during summer, they work to maintain the indoor air comfortably cool. The superior insulation they offer thereby reduces your home energy usage — and, of course, your bills!

Not just any type of window may be considered energy efficient. Energy efficient windows possess the following features:

MEANING AND DEFINITION OF ENERGY-EFFICIENT WINDOWS

If we are to define energy efficiency or state the meaning of the term ‘energy efficient’, it refers to the practice of using less energy whilst providing a similar output quantity from a specific service, device or product. These services include lighting, cooling or heating.

Therefore, energy-efficient windows can cool or warm your home without adding to the consumption of energy. If anything, they actually reduce your energy requirements and help keep your carbon footprint low. Other examples of energy-efficient products include light-emitting diodes or LED lights and kitchen appliances, heating equipment and air conditioners with the Energy Rating Label.

HOW MUCH ENERGY IS LOST THROUGH WINDOWS?

Now, you might be wondering how much energy is lost through conventional windows.

Around 30% (or more) of the heating energy inside a home is lost through its windows. During the cold seasons, about 76% of the sunlight that penetrates standard double-pane windows is converted into heat. To prevent energy loss and reduce your power bills, you can use window coverings or treatments, such as windows, blinds and drapes.

Beyond using window coverings, installing storm windows with low-E coatings and/or multi-layer glazing can improve window thermal performance significantly and reduce solar heat gain.

Significance of the U-Value of Glass

When it comes to assessing and measuring glass performance, the U-value of glass or its U-factor is considered the most important. The U-value measures glass insulating characteristics; that is, how much heat flow or heat loss takes place through the glass due to temperature differences between the indoor and outdoor air.

The U-value of window glass indicates how well an insulated glass unit (IGU) can retain heated or cooled air. U-values typically range from 0.1 — indicating very little heat loss — to 1.0 or high heat loss. The lower the glass U-value, the better its insulating performance.

WHAT ARE THE MOST ENERGY EFFICIENT WINDOWS?

Which windows are the most energy efficient? The most energy-efficient windows available today are those that combine a variety of energy-efficient features. This includes the window material, glass, spacers, and double glazing, as these can all affect how energy efficient a window could be. Of course, windows that successfully combine all these elements would be deemed the most energy efficient.

These include:

Aside from considering the type of energy-efficient windows you purchase, remember that the quality of the installation can also affect their energy efficiency. Poorly installed energy-efficient windows with gaps and cracks around them won’t function as they should.

BEST WINDOW COVERINGS AND TREATMENTS FOR ENERGY EFFICIENCY

Aside from the windows themselves, you can improve the thermal performance of your home by considering the best window coverings for energy efficiency, including the following:

OTHER FACTORS TO CONSIDER FOR WINDOW ENERGY SAVINGS

Although the thermal efficiency and performance of windows are crucial to the overall energy efficiency rating of your home, other factors to consider include the position and design of the window and building.

Also, the type of glazing and glass material (e.g. thermally efficient glass), frame, design, window treatments or coverings you use can all impact the total performance of your windows.

Another important factor to remember is the quality of installation, as not even the most expensive energy-efficient windows will work when they are improperly installed. Therefore, it pays to work only with trusted window manufacturers and installers.

If you’re in the market for energy-efficient windows or would like to know your options, please get in touch with Sean Doyle Windows.