Valeanto's Iron Doors Bespoke Door Buying Guide

Summary (Read This First)

Your Guide to a Bespoke Entrance

This guide contains everything you need to define your vision and commission a Valeanto Iron Door. It is designed to assist you in making the specific design and technical choices required to bring your project to life.

Inside you will find:

Design Options: Exclusive finishes, glass styles, and door top profiles.

Technical Specifications: Guidance on thermal breaks, swing directions, and handle configurations.

Project Essentials: Step-by-step measuring instructions, pricing transparency, and timeline expectations.

Next Steps: You have been emailed a unique link to a detailed quotation form. Please use the information in this guide to select your preferences and complete that submission. This is the necessary final step to receive a comprehensive, accurate quote for your bespoke project.

Finishes & Colours

Black & Gold

Black

Gold Rush

Venetian Bronze

Addition RAL Options

We are also able to manufacture doors to specific RAL codes upon request, subject to acceptance.

Please note this in your contact with a Valeanto representative or completion of the quotation form.

Glass Designs

Door Top Options

Single Door Entry

Double Door Entry

Handles

Standard (this will be the same colour as your door)

Brass

Swing Direction

We are able to accomodate various swing direction configurations. The most popular configuration is a left hand inswing.

Single Door Swing Direction

Left Hand Inswing (Hinges On Left)

Left Hand Outswing (Hinges On Left)

Right Hand Inswing (Hinges On Right)

Right Hand Outswing (Hinges On Right)

Double Door Swing Direction

Both door panels can be opened although we can accommodate configurations to fix the inactive door if needed with flush deadbolts.

Left Hand Inswing (Left Active)

Left Hand Outswing (Left Active)

Right Hand Inswing (Right Active)

Right Hand Outswing (Right Active)

Bug Proofing Screen

You can choose to add the screen for any design and configuration.

The mesh used is a standard diamond mesh screen. It will be attached between the glass and iron frames by magnets, and can be easily removed for cleaning.

Measuring Guide

Here’s a simple guide to help you understand the basics of measuring your door frame for a quote and your project. A commissioned project will always have an expert come and do the final measurements before the door enters production, so this is only needed for an accurate quote.

All our iron door sizes are referred to as the net frame size or unit size. This represents the complete door system, which includes the frame and thresholds.

Overview for Frame Size, Rough Opening Size and Door Size (Net Frame Size)

The Jamb size refers to the thickness of the wall into which the door unit will be installed. This measurement includes any sheetrock or exterior sheathing/siding.

The rough opening size refers to the wall opening created to fit a door. It is usually slightly larger than the actual door size to leave space for proper installation which includes insultating foam.

How to Measure Your Door Opening

Step 1: Measure the Width

Measure the distance between the left and right sides of the rough opening.
Take three measurements: top, middle, and bottom.
Record the smallest measurement.

Step 2: Measure the Height

Measure from the floor (or subfloor) to the top of the rough opening.
For square top doors, take two height measurements—one on the left side and one on the right side. (If the door has an arch or round top, measure from the floor to the highest point).
Record the smallest measurement.

Step 3: Confirm the Depth (Jamb Size)

Measure the thickness of the wall where the door will be installed.
Include any sheetrock, sheathing, or siding.

Step 4: Calculate the Door Size

The rough opening should be about 250mm wider and 127mm taller than the door frame (unit) size.

Example:

Rough Opening: 185cm x 245cm → Door Size: 183.5cm x 243.7cm

Note that for commissioned projects, a surveyor from Valeanto will come and conduct an onsite survey where specific measurements will be taken. A rough opening measure is needed for a quotation to be produced.

Thermal Break Options

What Is A Thermal Break Iron Door?

Simply put, thermal break iron doors are designed with an insulating material (low-conductivity material) placed between the inner and outer iron frames — including the frame and threshold. This layer significantly reduces heat transfer and helps the door withstand harsh weather conditions.

While thermal break doors may cost slightly more than standard iron doors, they’re a smart investment — offering greater indoor comfort without sacrificing elegant design.

The additional cost of a Thermal Break is £20 per square foot.

Should I add a Thermal Break Lining To My Door?

If you live in an area prone to cold winters or damp conditions, adding a thermal break to your door is essential. We strongly advise against choosing a standard (non-thermal break) door if you are based in colder regions like Scotland, the North of England, or exposed coastal areas, where maintaining internal warmth is a priority.

Even in milder climates, such as London or the South East, many customers still opt for thermal break doors. In the UK, it isn’t just about the cold; a thermal break significantly reduces the risk of condensation forming on the inside of the metal frame—a common issue in our damp climate that can lead to moisture buildup.

Choosing a thermal break iron door is always a smart investment. It improves your home’s energy efficiency, helps lower heating bills, and keeps your hallway comfortable year-round.

Why Choose Thermal Break Iron Doors?

Energy Efficiency: No more cold-to-the-touch interior frames or condensation buildup.
Comfort Year-Round: Extra insulation means less noise from outside — perfect for busy streets or urban areas.
Noise Reduction: All the beauty and security of wrought iron, with modern thermal protection.

It's perfect for any project. Whether you're designing a luxury custom home, upgrading a classic estate, or working on a high-efficiency commercial project, our thermal break doors deliver a premium look with practical benefits.

How Do We Price Projects?

We price projects according to the specific requirements, measurements and other variables to ensure successful completion. This includes factors such as the size & weight of the door, additional features such as arches, round tops, side panels, thermal breaking, handles and/or delivery & installation needs.

Upon completion of a full quote request form, our team will provide you the specific breakdown of costs for your project although you are able to use the following calculator for rough guidance (note this may not be your final project quote) - click here.

Project Timelines, Payments & Expectations

After you have submitted an initial inquiry of interest and have gathered your door measurements (refer to the relevant section in this guide on how to measure your door opening for a quote), you will be prompted to complete a "Full Quotation" questionnaire. This will capture key aspects about your project in terms of the size of the door, what optional extras you might like and understanding your delivery and installation needs.
Once a full quote has been provided and you are happy to proceed, a pro-forma invoice will be generated for settlement (30% of the project cost) which will commence the "Design Phase" of the project. During the Design Phase, you will work with our team to make your vision come to life - they will produce the relevant design documents and technical CAD drawing for your project. During this phase, we will arrange an onsite survey to capture the final measurements and other considerations to ensure a successful project.
Once you are satisfied and have signed off on the Design & Technical CAD drawings of your door, and have completed the 2nd instalment payment (Production Payment) of 40% of the project cost, your door will be scheduled to start production. Our team will communicate the specific lead times at that moment although they are around 14-17 weeks once the project reaches this stage.
During the Production Phase of the project, our team will communicate with you the progress and provide update pictures. Before the door leaves the manufacturing facilitate, it undergoes a strict quality control and assurance process so that you are amazed with the final product.
In the final stages of the Production Phase, our team will be in contact with you to arrange and organise your opted delivery/ installation choice, to ensure there are no delays in you receiving your door.
Before the door leaves our warehouse, the remaining balance of 30% of the production cost must be paid - with no exception.
Separate delivery and installation charges (where relevant) will be due upon completion of the installation of your door.
Note that after the Design & CAD drawings have been approved and the door enters the Production Phase, you are unable to make any amendments to the Design and/or order. Our team will try and accommodate to the best of our ability although there maybe some aspects that can't be changed once the door has entered into production. It is at this point that we will not be able to facilitate a refund if in the event you change your mind.

As an illustrative example of costs, please see below, based on a figurative door price of £5,000 (Inc VAT).

Design Phase payment of 30% (£1,500) is due to formalise the onsite survey (to confirm final measurements), our design team to work on your bespoke door designs and our lead engineer to produce the technical CAD drawing.
Production Phase payment of 40% (£2,000) is due once the design and technical drawing has been approved by you and the door is ready to enter production.
Completion payment of 30% (£1,500) is due before the door is scheduled to leave the warehouse.
Where applicable - Delivery & Installation payment due upon successful delivery & installation of your door.

Past Projects - Inspiration

Please refer to our Instagram page here and also our stock door options here for inspiration. Our team will help pick out specific similar projects relative to your brief and offer some suggestions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Design & Customisation

Can You Build My Bespoke, Unique Design?

Absolutely. You can send sketches, drawings, or photos, and our design team will create a detailed rendering for your approval.

You are able to choose the Design of the Door's scrollwork, handle, type of lock, type of glass as well as the colour of the door.

Can You Accommodate Custom Sizes & Intricacies?

Having completed thousands of projects over the years, we are confident that we whatever your requirements, we can bring your vision to life. We are able to build iron doors to fit the required specification of your project and our team will advise you on all of the possibilities/ limitations in the context of your specific situation.

Can I Add Side Panels To My Design?

Depending on the size of your door opening, side panels can be accommodated as part of the design and within the frame. Our team will advise whether this is suitable or not for your project.

Is The Glass Window Openable For Ventilation?

We offer openable glass windows on our decorative iron doors, allowing you to open them for ventilation and easy cleaning.

What is A Bugproofing Screen?

The bug-proof screens for our iron doors are diamond-mesh panels attached between the glass window and the iron frame with magnets. They can be easily removed whenever cleaning is needed.

A Bugproofing screen is only really needed if you plan on having the door open at times for ventilation.

How Long Will My Door Take To Complete?

The lead time for bespoke designs is currently 16 weeks after the Designs have been approved by you and the 2nd instalment (production payment), has been made.

Materials & Construction

What Materials Are Your Iron Doors Made Of?

Our iron doors are crafted with 12–14 gauge steel frames, fully welded for maximum strength, and tempered insulated glass to enhance safety and energy efficiency.

What is "Low E" Glass?

Low-E glass (short for low-emissivity glass) is an energy-efficient glass with a special microscopic coating that helps control heat transfer. It does not change the color of the glass, but under certain lighting it may appear slightly reflective, similar to a soft mirror effect.

Are Your Doors Prone To Rust And Can They Withstand Harsh Weather Conditions?

Please rest assured that all our iron doors are made with premium 12-gauge wrought iron and finished with a multi-layer protective coating, including zinc galvanization, primer, and environmentally friendly paint. This process provides excellent resistance against rust, moisture, and coastal humidity, making the doors highly durable even in seaside environments.

Many of our customers have installed our doors near the ocean. With regular cleaning and basic maintenance, your door will stay beautiful and strong for years to come.

Should I Get The Thermal Break Option?

All our standard iron doors are fitted with basic insulation for energy efficiency. You may decide for various reasons that you might want to optimise for heat insultation, and therefore a thermal break would be appropriate. If you have a porch, you may not need a thermal break.

Measurements & Installation

How Do I Measure For My Iron Door?

The door sizes listed on our website refer to the complete door unit, including the jambs, threshold, and door slab(s). Please refer to the measurement guide section on this webpage. Note that upon ordering a bespoke door, a member of our team will visit onsite to confirm final door measurements.

For new construction, please ensure the rough opening is at least 1" wider and 1/2" taller than the door unit size for a proper installation. If you are replacing an existing door, please measure the brick-to-brick width and height first to determine your opening size.

Can You Help Verify My Measurements?

Yes, you can send photos and dimensions, and our team will confirm the door unit size for you, and the drawing will be sent to you for approval before production. We will also visit onsite as part of the project to confirm accurate final measurements before the door is crafted.

Do You Install The Door?

We do offer installation options and these are priced separately to your project. Many clients also opt for their local builders/ and/or third parties to install the door; we are able to provide a guide to any third party who might install the door on your behalf.

Do Your Doors Come "Pre-hung" Within The Frame?

Yes. All our iron doors arrive pre-hung with the frame, hinges, sweep, and weatherstripping installed.

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