Frequently Asked Questions about Origin Products

Origin are one of the best known premium home-improvement brands in the UK. Specifically best known for their bifolding doors, the Origin range of products now includes sliding doors, front doors, garage doors and an excellent range of steel-inspired aluminium internal doors.

We answer some of the frequently asked questions about Origin; the company, and their products:

What Origin products are available?

Origin products now include a comprehensive range of glazing systems for property renovation, window and door replacements and new build homes or extensions. The current Origin products range includes.

OB-72 Classically styled bifold doors
OB-49 slimline bifold doors with a fantastic 110mm mullion sightline

Sliding doors come in three mullion sightline options:
OS-77 with a 77mm middle mullion
OS-44 with a 44mm middle mullion
OS-29 with a 29mm middle mullion
OS-20 Artisan ultra slim sliding door using the Cortizo system.

For aluminium residential doors, these use bifold door profiles and include
Front doors available in ten different panel styles.
Side and back doors
French door with or without side panels
Hinged Garage doors

For aluminium windows you get the choice of a unique double flush casement window design or an ultra-slim aluminium window
OW-80 flush casement windows
OW-70 slimline aluminium windows

Interior Doors
You can also buy Origin steel-inspired internal doors available as single or double doors, with matching side panels and separate screening systems. This product is called the OI-30.

Where can i view Origin products?

Origin has two substantial showrooms in High Wycombe and a showroom serving the North of England in Warrington. These exceptional showrooms are one of the best places to view the entire range of Origin bifolding doors, residential doors, windows and sliding doors. The Origin showrooms also enable you to speak directly to the Company and get a great understanding of just what makes their products and their service stand out.

Origin also works with a nationwide network of premium and standard partners. These are independent businesses selling the Origin range. Many Origin Premium Partners are chosen for their quality showrooms, expertise and professionalism, not to mention their installation experience.

To ensure you get the very best service from an Origin Dealer or partner, Origin ensures they are all highly trained and supported throughout their trading relationship.

You can use our contact form to get in touch and find out more about where to view Origin products.

Buckinghamshire Showroom
Stuart House, Castle Estate,
Coronation Road, Cressex Business Park,
High Wycombe,
Buckinghamshire,
HP12 3TA

Warrington Showroom
Taurus Park,
Europa Boulevard, Westbrook,
Warrington, Cheshire,
WA5 7ZT

How much do Origin bifolding doors cost?

The best way to get a price on Origin bifolding doors and windows is to get a price from your local Origin installer. The trade can get a price directly from Origin.

There are many factors that affect the price of Origin bifolding doors. Sizes, configuration, colour, handle and hardware options and any specific items relating to the installation. For this reason, it is always best to get an accurate quotation.

Site conditions, the location and other factors can also affect the price of Origin bifolding doors and windows.

Aluminium windows, in particular, are difficult to provide guide prices on as the number of opening lights, window mullions and transoms and windows sizes all greatly affect the price you pay. However, you can find out factors affecting how much Origin bifolding doors cost. 

Contact us and we can put you in touch with an Origin supplier in your local area.

Are Origin bifolding doors a good idea?

A bifolding door is an ideal enhancement for any home, adding light, space and value.

There are more than fifty different bifold door brands on the market, but Origin bifolds deliver on quality, a choice of standard or slim sightlines, an excellent brand reputation and good service from the dealer network.

Before you decide on having a bifolding door it is worth talking to a professional home improvement company and Origin dealer.  

Whilst Origin is as good as other well-designed and made bifolding doors on the market, you do get some advantages.

An industry-leading 20-year guarantee.
Some of the best colour and customisation options on the market.
Wide product availability nationwide.
Fast lead times.
Aluminium bifolding doors in a woodgrain colour and finish.

Are Origin windows and doors available supply only/to the trade

It is possible to purchase Origin bifolding doors and windows on a supply-only basis, ideal for the trade and those wanting to buy direct and arrange their own installation.

The excellent Origin guarantee may not be the same on a trade supply only basis compared with the full survey and installation service from an Origin Dealer.

Our advice to homeowners is to use the full supply and installation service to get the best experience, professional installation and guarantee.

Is the Origin bifold door low threshold weather resistant?

Origin bifolding doors have the option of a standard threshold and a low threshold.  
The weather testing carried out on an Origin bifold is based upon the standard threshold that has the necessary upstands, weather seals and other design features intended to keep the door weather resistant.

The low threshold option is intended for internal applications primarily, although some people do use the low threshold for external doors in the knowledge that there is no guarantee of weather resistance.

Examples where the low threshold has been used, are where doors are sheltered, where bifold doors have a canopy above them and generally in locations where the door set is not subjected to driving rain or wind.

Most installations can be covered by using the standard threshold but recessing it lower into so that it creates less of a step-over and a more flush appearance. Contact us for more information and advice.

How good are Origin aluminium windows

They’re excellent and come highly recommended. The Origin OW-80 is unique in the market for its styling, excellent security, weather performance and energy efficiency. The customisation and personalisation options are also some of the best of any aluminium window brand. It’s downside is slightly thicker sightlines than many other brands.

The Origin OW-70 is a slimmer version but doesn’t come in as many configurations as the OW-80 or at larger sizes, but it’s an excellent slimline window for standard size openings.

For balance, it should be stressed that there is no ‘bad’ window on the market. Where they differ is who makes them, the overall supply chain and the quality of the components. So while many other windows will meet industry standards, some windows exceed them.  Where windows can differ is in their aesthetics, overall sightlines, and the options available with them.

Origin windows also use top brand window hardware such as locks by the trusted brand Yale. The powder coating of Origin windows comes from premier architectural powder coaters that are one of the best in the UK.

Therefore as an overall product, the Origin aluminium window can be classed as a good window.

How energy-efficient are Origin aluminium windows?

Origin windows come in two versions for thermal efficiency.  The standard Origin window uses quality 35mm polyamide thermal breaks to insulate the aluminium profile. Additionally, the thermal break features interlocking barriers to minimise airflow through the window. 

Then there is the aerogel upgrade available with Origin Windows.   Aerogel significantly improves the thermal performance of the Origin window by some margin. 

With the latest changes to Building Regulations, we recommend you contact us for details of U-Values with Origin doors and windows as some only meet Building Regulations with higher specification glass units or triple glazing.

Regardless of insulation material, Origin aluminium windows or doors do meet current Building Regulations with the right glass specification.

What extras are available with origin windows?

Origin aluminium windows come as fixed or opening out windows.  You can also create shaped windows, bay windows and a combination of windows and doors.

Aside from a big choice of colours and glass specifications such as double or triple glazing, the following optional extras are also available with Origin windows.

Colour matched handles are one of the best features of Origin windows. Few other windows offer this option.

Most windows will require sitting on a cill and Origin cills are 95mm, 155mm and 185mm.  A bespoke cill pressing can also be provided by your local Origin dealer.

For those that want to use Origin fixing straps for newly built openings, these are available.

For trickle ventilators or site conditions needing a frame extension, these are available in 15mm or 35mm.

Trickle vents to meet the requirements of windows in new build homes and extensions.
Window vents can have their opening range limited with restrictor hooks – ideal for high-level windows.

Fire escape requirements are catered for with Egress stays that open to allow easy exit in the event of a fire.

A choice of black or white glazing gaskets.

A more durable marine grade finish. Please read our important article on marine grade guarantees to understand the difference between a marine grade finish and an actual marine guarantee finish.

How secure are Origin aluminium windows?

The Origin Window is certified to PAS 24. It helps to understand what this standard means. 

Test samples of Origin Windows have been submitted to this security standard for independent testing.  The windows passed these tests and passed without failure on the corner joints.

The hinges on Origin windows are made from ferritic stainless steel providing corrosion resistance. The hinges have undergone extensive cycle testing to test for longevity and general wear.  The window hinges also have hinge guards along the hinged side of the window.

The locking system used is from the trusted Yale name with the Encloser lock model, fitted to every Origin casement opening window. This premium lock offers multiple locking points, and Origin reports have exceeded the PAS 24:2012 security standard.

Why is the OW-80 unique in its design?

We love the design of the OW-80, if you don’t mind the thicker styling. OW-80 is a unique and cleverly engineered feature of the Origin aluminium window is the inside and outside flush casement detail.

All other flush casement windows, including PVCu, have this flush detail on the outside only.  This is where the opening sash sits in the frame rather than overlapping it.

The flush casement arrangement on the Origin window needs to be seen to be appreciated.  Overlapping sections on other aluminium windows help keep windows weather resistant. Origin’s flush casement on both the inside and outside creates a unique looking window but also one that is weather resistant with no overlapping frames.

Clever engineering and design allow the flush casement details to sit neatly in the frame and create a contemporary aesthetic, but also a traditional one.

how much do Origin windows cost?

There is no standard or recommended retail price on Origin aluminium windows. Every window is made to order and customised to your individual requirements.  We give more information about how much Origin windows cost. 

Sizes, quantities, colour, glass specification, as well as installation considerations, can all affect the price.

The easiest way to get a price for your home is to contact us and we can put you in touch with one of the trained and approved Origin installers.

Do Origin products look the same as the bifolds?

A bifolding door and a window are two entirely different products and can never exactly match.

The Origin bifolding door uses different outer frames and door panel sections compared to the Origin window, which has a different suite of profiles.

If your project requires single doors and French doors, these are made with Origin’s bifold door profiles and it’s an excellent way to match your doors where your project has both door types.

Can Origin windows connect to bifold doors?

Subject to the overall design and installation itself, windows can couple to bifolding doors, and you can also create bifolding windows.

Can I colour-match Origin products to other brands?

If you are having Origin windows and aluminium sliding doors, lantern roofs, front doors or other products from other brands matching the colour should not be difficult.

The first thing to understand is that colour matching different product is not as simple as the same RAL colour.  Your local Origin dealer should be able to advise you on the best way to colour-match all the various aluminium products.

If you use the same RAL number, you will get a close match but not an exact match.  The only way to ensure an exact colour match is to use the same RAL reference from the same powder manufacturer. Contact us and we can provide help and advice.

The wood effect bifolding doors, entrance doors and windows offered by Origin, you will not be able to colour-match to woodstructure finishes from brands like Smart Systems.

Our understanding is that presently the only two wood-effect colours available with Origin products and are Natural Oak and Golden Oak. These colours are only available with Origin OB-72 bifolding doors and Origin OW-80 Windows.

How big can Origin windows be?

Origin OW-80 windows are available in sizes that exceed the limits of other windows on the market that rely on heavy duty vent/sash sections to create large opening windows.

Top-hung Origin windows are possible up to 1500mm wide and 1500mm high.

Side-hung Origin windows are possible at a very impressive 1000mm wide and 1800mm wide. That is virtually a door size!

Fixed windows and large gable windows can be made up to any size subject to glass sizes, site conditions, wind-loading and other considerations.

There are other factors that affect Origin products for both windows and doors such as glass weight and location, so always seek professional advice or get in touch via our contact form.

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Andrew DOBSONAndrew DOBSON
16:42 30 Oct 23
Nick responded incredibly quickly to my enquiry (on a Saturday too!), and was able to offer invaluable advice on both aluminum systems and manufacturer / suppliers. Thanks Nick!
chris steerchris steer
16:18 09 Oct 23
Had a meeting with Nick during the grand designs show. Was extremely helpful and professional would highly recommend
Chris WesthorpChris Westhorp
19:55 13 Sep 23
Extremely helpful with pointing us in the right direction to find the products we required and suggesting firms that could reliably fit them.Nick was quick to reply and very detailed in his advice.Highly recommend reaching out to them.
Cathy GreenwoodCathy Greenwood
07:03 11 Sep 23
Update - A second email to nick for help on bifolds resulted in a detailed informative reply even on a Sunday ! This guy is so knowledgable and helpful .I approached Nick for an independent view on sliding doors v bifold and the different brand options . His reply was extremely detailed and prompt and allowed me to navigate this often confusing world in a much more informed way . Thanks so much Nick
Anthony CraigAnthony Craig
12:45 05 Sep 23
This is a must site for anyone looking for advice. Great service and very quick answers to questions. Nick has been of great help quiding us through the maze of aluminium products. Thank you
Philip DuffieldPhilip Duffield
20:24 26 Jul 23
I contacted Nick @ ATS for guidance on what aluminium sliding door systems would be suitable for an opening in an extension that is going to be both wide and tall. He came back really quickly with very detailed and incredibly helpful advice. He is clearly extremely knowledgeable about the systems on the market and their respective features and capabilities. If you’re feeling a bit lost by the overwhelming range of choices out there, I’d definitely recommend contacting him.
Dariush HekmatDariush Hekmat
17:25 19 Jul 23
Nick's advice is great. He is always quick to respond and spends time on responses, which really help to make an informed decision.
Alan FosterAlan Foster
07:51 12 Jul 23
Absolutely fantastic. Asked for advice about replacing Crittall (?) windows late last night and early this morning received 3 great suggestions and contact information for suppliers
Rachel LauRachel Lau
09:24 16 Jun 23
Fantastic website full of valuable and pragmatic advice about product selection and comparison: no other website gives information like this. Truly written for public interest. Don't hesistate to reach out to Nick via the mailing system. He responds very quickly, is friendly, and has very sound and high knowledgable advice. I have already shared this with my friend planning her own grand design.
guard Charlieguard Charlie
12:28 14 May 23
I emailed this company just on the off chance they could help me with new magnetic sliders for my patio door. They were not able to supply those but were so very helpful providing me with the name of a company who could. I am so very grateful at the great service. Dare say customers must be very happy. thank you so much.
Benjamin LewisBenjamin Lewis
10:06 04 May 23
Nick is very helpful indeed. Extremely knowledgeable on bifolds which was in relation to my query. Great website as well, some very useful articles. Particularly appreciated the article that lists all the major bifold options in order of their sightlines! Thank you!
P JonesP Jones
08:07 15 Apr 23
I asked Nick some questions about an installation we were considering and he replied within hours with some very useful suggestions that will probably lead us to using a different make and supplier. Thanks, Nick. Great work.
Nicholas WallNicholas Wall
13:18 02 Apr 23
Looking for fair and honest expert advice on all aspect of aluminium windows and doors? These guys will arm you with all the information you need to make the RIGHT choice in a highly complex, crowded marketplace. post a question and you will get a very quick professional answer you can rely on being based on fact. Thanks guys!
Giorgia SiriacoGiorgia Siriaco
16:25 21 Mar 23
After a lot of research to find doors that would meet our unusual size requirements and feeling increasingly uncertain about the best way to spend our small budget, I stumbled on the ATS website, and I'm so glad I did! I contacted ATS to request advice and Nick promptly replied with a wealth of information, providing us with options and relevant contact details. I only wish I'd found them sooner!
Carol NortonCarol Norton
10:01 17 Mar 23
I've been so confused about how to achieve the look I'm after, and going round in circles with various window/door companies, trying to get away from the huge chunks of plastic currently around my windows. I didn't expect an email to a company found through a Google search to really help - but I was desperate, so I tried. I'm SO glad I did. Finally I have clear explanations from ATS of where I've been going wrong, exactly what I'm looking for, and a list of local companies that might be able to provide it! The response has excelled my expectations and I feel as if I'm finally inching closer to a home with which I'll be happy and comfortable: thank you.
David NunnDavid Nunn
20:54 14 Mar 23
It is rare that I write reviews, however after my very positive communication with Nick - enquiring about suitable slim sash aluminium windows for my project, I felt that a review was definitely warranted. I can reinforce the many positive reviews posted so far, Nick was very quick to respond, providing comprehensive detail, with excellent independent advice.In summary, great service, thank you Nick.
Chantal AuerbachChantal Auerbach
13:04 09 Mar 23
Nick from Aluminium Trade Supply was incredibly helpful informative and pleasant to deal with. He responded quickly to emails and was very knowledgeable. Highly recommend being in touch with Nick if you are considering new aluminium windows or doors.
Lee JonesLee Jones
20:21 22 Feb 23
I dropped Nick at Aluminium Trade Supply an email re high security slim sightline bi-folds and their alternatives and he responded that quickly (and so comprehensively) that I felt bad I’d not paid him for his time!Nick Sir your product knowledge is outstanding and you are providing a level of service that goes wayyyy above and beyond expectations. I’ll definitely make sure I mention Aluminium Trade Supply to anyone I encounter looking for a fenestration solution 🙏🏼
G JG J
15:13 13 Feb 23
We are looking to replace some old UPVC patios doors with aluminium ones. The ATS website is a great source of advice in an area where clear information is sorely lacking. Having used the website, I then followed this up with a number of specific questions relating to our search, and Nick came back very quickly with clear, detailed and very useful advice.I have been very impressed with both the website and with Nick's advice. My only regret is that I didn't come across ATS before replacing various windows in 2021 - I'm sure it would have saved me a lot of grief and money! Thanks again Nick.
Azza McCabeAzza McCabe
17:47 01 Feb 23
So impressed with this company.Responded to my query quickly andgave valuable advice. Nick was extremely helpful and we were able to move forward with our project.
Adri LoloçiAdri Loloçi
11:21 08 Jan 23
Nick was super fast to respond and provided some great recommendations. I would recommend this website to anyone looking to find bifold or sliding aluminium doors.
Stephen HoustonStephen Houston
16:16 03 Jan 23
Looking for aluminium crittall style internal door and external patio French doors. Noted good reviews and thought would ask for advice. Comprehensive reply with excellent independent advice and lists of fitters who could provide products and installation. Great service.
Inga GeachInga Geach
08:25 21 Dec 22
Nick from Aluminium Trade Supply has been extremely helpful with navigating the jungle that is aluminium glazing for our upcoming extension project. His advice was prompt, detailed and always impartial. Very grateful for your input, thanks Nick!
Amanda BurtonAmanda Burton
10:54 16 Dec 22
Brilliant website and an excellent service. Nick provided not only detailed advice and supplier contacts, but highlighted the considerations of various products so I could make an informed choice. Our Sunvista minimal sliders were fitted this week and I couldn't be happier, stunning. Thanks once again for your advice and recommendations, invaluable!
Keith BarnesKeith Barnes
17:18 10 Dec 22
Very helpful advice given to my question, including the name of 3 different companies that i could try for the product being enquired about. Many thanks
Munim ChowdhuryMunim Chowdhury
11:45 13 Sep 22
Nick has been very helpful on signposting me to a number of partner organisations for steel/aluminium doors.
SUSAN wallaceSUSAN wallace
17:26 31 Aug 22
My experience with this firm was exceptionally good and this is notalways the case as a female, dipping a toe into technical waters.I was spoken too with courtesy and at a level that helped me consolidate what was needed .On top of that I was given a list of companies and places where I could obtain the type of product I needed.I could not thank them enough and would certainly go there again and reccommend others do too.
Paul SalterPaul Salter
22:39 22 Aug 22
Contacting Aluminium Trade Supply is like contacting the Oracle direct. Advice is always comprehensive and balanced. On multiple occasions they have provided me with options that fully meet our objectives. Many thanks.
Nick McCormackNick McCormack
20:25 14 Aug 22
Really helpful and useful came back to me on a Sunday with some invaluable information. Highly recommended.
ray addisonray addison
13:14 14 Aug 22
received a prompt reply to my query,and helpful information from ATS
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