News & Insights

Manufacturing of high quality windows and doors.

27th November 2025 by The Fairco Team

When homeowners choose new windows, performance is often judged by what is visible: the frame finish, the glazing, or how smoothly the sash opens and closes. Yet the real determinants of quality lie much deeper in the manufacturing process. Precision engineering, material selection, testing protocols and quality control all play a decisive role in how a window performs over decades.

Let’s have a look at a full window manufacturing journey, expanding on the technical steps involved and explaining why each stage matters. While the principles apply across the industry, we also reference how Fairco integrates these processes into its own manufacturing and specification standards.

Design and performance specification

Every high‑quality window begins with detailed design and performance targets. At this stage, manufacturers define thermal performance requirements, structural strength, weather resistance, acoustic control and security standards. These targets are informed by Irish and EU regulations, including Part L of the Building Regulations and relevant EN standards.

Design decisions made here influence:

Frame depth and chamber design for insulation
Compatibility with double or triple glazing
Hardware integration and load‑bearing capacity
Compliance with security standards such as PAS 24 where required

At Fairco, window systems are engineered as complete assemblies rather than isolated components. This ensures that frames, glazing, seals and hardware work together as a single thermal and structural system.

Profile extrusion and material selection

For uPVC and aluminium windows, frame profiles are produced through extrusion. This process involves heating raw material and forcing it through precision dies to create consistent cross‑sections. Accuracy at this stage is critical, as even small dimensional deviations can affect air tightness, glazing fit and long‑term durability.

Modern multi‑chamber uPVC profiles are designed to trap air, reducing heat transfer through the frame. Aluminium systems, by contrast, rely on advanced thermal break technology, where low‑conductivity materials separate internal and external sections of the frame.

Fairco specifies profile systems that balance strength, insulation and longevity, with options tailored for uPVC ranges such as Fairco Performance uPVC and thermally broken Aluminium systems used across sliding and fixed glazing solutions.

Reinforcement and structural integrity

Once profiles are produced, reinforcement is added where required. This is particularly important for larger openings, sliding doors and windows exposed to higher wind loads. Reinforcements are typically galvanised steel or engineered aluminium inserts fitted within the profile chambers.

Structural reinforcement helps prevent:

Frame deflection under load
Operational issues such as sash drop or misalignment
Reduced sealing performance over time

Correct reinforcement design is essential for compliance with structural testing under EN 14351‑1 and for ensuring consistent performance across the product lifecycle.

Cutting, machining and welding

Profiles are cut to precise dimensions using CNC‑controlled machinery. Mitre joints are prepared for welding or mechanical joining, depending on the system type. Accuracy at this stage directly affects squareness, weather tightness and visual finish.

For uPVC windows, corners are heat‑welded to form strong, airtight joints. Excess material is then cleaned and finished to ensure a smooth, consistent appearance. Aluminium systems typically use mechanical corner cleats combined with crimping or bonding for strength.

Fairco places particular emphasis on tight manufacturing tolerances, as this supports improved gasket compression and consistent thermal performance once installed.

Glazing specification and installation

Glazing is one of the most critical contributors to window performance. Units are specified based on thermal, acoustic and solar control requirements. Typical specifications may include low‑emissivity coatings, argon gas filling and warm‑edge spacers to reduce heat loss at the perimeter.

Correct glazing installation is essential. This includes:

Accurate glazing packers to support the unit and prevent stress
Continuous perimeter sealing to maintain airtightness
Compatibility between glazing thickness and frame design

Fairco systems are designed to accommodate high‑performance double and triple-glazing, supporting low U‑values without compromising frame stability.

Hardware and operating mechanisms

Locks, hinges and opening mechanisms are installed after glazing. These components must be matched to sash size and weight to ensure smooth operation and long‑term reliability. Poor hardware selection is a common cause of operational failure, even in otherwise well‑manufactured windows.

Quality hardware contributes to:

Enhanced security and resistance to forced entry
Ease of use and ergonomic performance
Maintained alignment over repeated use

Fairco specifies tested hardware systems compatible with its window ranges, ensuring performance consistency across residential and architectural applications.

Sealing, gaskets and weather performance

Multiple sealing layers are fitted to prevent air and water ingress. Modern window systems typically use co‑extruded or replaceable EPDM gaskets designed to remain flexible over time. The positioning and compression of these seals play a key role in achieving airtightness targets.

Effective sealing supports:

Reduced draughts and heat loss
Improved acoustic insulation
Protection against wind‑driven rain

Quality control and testing

Before leaving the factory, windows undergo a series of checks. These include dimensional inspections, visual finish checks and functional testing of opening elements. Many systems are also independently tested for air permeability, water tightness and wind resistance.

At Fairco, quality control is integrated throughout the manufacturing process rather than treated as a final step. This reduces the risk of defects and supports consistent performance across large production runs.

Why manufacturing detail matters for homeowners

For homeowners, the manufacturing process may be invisible, but its impact is felt every day. Well‑manufactured windows deliver better thermal comfort, lower energy bills, quieter interiors and fewer maintenance issues over time.

Understanding how windows are made helps homeowners make informed decisions, moving beyond surface appearance to focus on long‑term performance and reliability.

Taking the next step

If you are planning a window or door upgrade, exploring how products are designed and manufactured is a valuable first step. Fairco’s window systems are engineered with performance, compliance and durability in mind.

Explore our window ranges or consult our design team to discuss the right solution for your home.

Quick tips for home security with Fairco windows & doors

20th November 2025 by The Fairco Team

Home security matters now more than ever, and one of the simplest ways to strengthen your property is by upgrading the windows and doors that form the first line of defence. At Fairco, security is not an optional extra but an integral part of every product we design and install. Robust materials, considered engineering and carefully chosen hardware combine to ensure your new windows and doors protect what matters most while complementing the look and comfort of your home.

Advanced multi-point locking: your primary defence

Traditional doors and windows often rely on a single locking point, which can leave other areas of the frame vulnerable. Fairco products use modern multi-point locking systems to spread the locking action across the full height or width of the unit. When the handle is lifted on a Fairco door, multiple hooks, bolts or rollers engage into reinforced frame pockets, creating a secure, even seal that is significantly harder to force. This engineered rigidity not only improves security but also enhances weather resistance and long-term performance.

How lift-to-lock works in everyday use

The operation of Fairco’s lift-to-lock systems is deliberately straightforward. After closing the door, lifting the handle engages every locking point along the edge; turning the key then secures the mechanism in place. This small sequence ensures the door sits correctly in its frame, maintains its weather seal and provides maximum resistance to attempted entry. Windows fitted with equivalent multi-point hardware operate on the same principle: fully closing and engaging the handle allows each locking element to function exactly as intended, delivering consistent protection with minimal effort.

The role of good habits in keeping your home secure

Even the strongest hardware performs best when supported by sensible daily routines. Fully closing and locking windows and doors rather than leaving them merely pushed shut is a simple but effective habit. Avoid leaving keys in external locks overnight or when you are away, and ensure that potential access points, such as small side windows, flat roofs or secondary entrances, are secured with equal care. These small actions reduce opportunity and make your property a less attractive target for opportunistic intrusion.

Additional home security options for enhanced protection

For homeowners seeking extra reassurance, Fairco offers a range of optional security enhancements that work seamlessly with our doors and windows. Laminated security glass combines bonded layers that hold together if shattered, slowing an intruder and maintaining a barrier even after impact. Reinforced frames increase the structural strength around locking points, while security-rated handles and upgraded cylinders provide resistance to tampering techniques such as snapping or drilling. Many customers also choose to integrate alarms, sensors or smart-home security systems to create a layered defence strategy that covers both physical and electronic protection.

Home security and peace of mind, working together

Fairco’s approach to security pairs high-quality hardware with design and installation, delivering protection that lasts. Strong windows and doors are an important deterrent in their own right, but when combined with everyday best practices and optional upgrades, they form a comprehensive security solution. The outcome is confidence in a home that feels safer, more resilient and better protected against intruders, day and night.

If you would like advice on the best security options for your property or wish to discuss upgrades such as laminated glazing or reinforced frames, our team is ready to help.

Book a consultation or visit a Fairco showroom to see our solutions in person and plan the right protection for your home.

A homeowner’s guide to Fairco installation day.

13th November 2025 by The Fairco Team

Investing in new windows and doors is one of the most transformative upgrades you can make to your home. Whether the goal is improved comfort, quieter living, enhanced energy efficiency or a refreshed architectural look, the installation process plays a crucial role in achieving the best possible outcome. At Fairco, we design every step of your installation day to be clean, organised and stress-free, ensuring your experience is as premium as the products themselves. Understanding how the day will unfold helps everything run smoothly and allows you to enjoy the transformation with confidence.

Preparing your home before the team arrives

In the days leading up to installation, a small amount of preparation helps create the ideal environment for our fitting team. Because windows and doors sit within busy areas of the home, ensuring clear access allows our installers to work efficiently and protects your belongings from accidental damage. We encourage customers to take a moment to move any ornaments, picture frames, houseplants or furniture away from the areas where work will take place. Removing blinds, curtains and window dressings in advance also saves time and protects delicate fabrics from dust.

If you have alarm sensors mounted on frames or sashes, temporarily removing them allows the installation to proceed without interruption. Many homeowners also choose to cover sensitive items such as electronics, artworks or treasured pieces, particularly in nearby rooms where light dust may travel. These simple steps help create a calm, organised space for your installation and allow our team to focus on delivering the best possible craftsmanship.

What happens on the day of installation

On the day itself, your Fairco installation team will arrive at the scheduled time, ready to begin work. From the outset, great care is taken to protect your home. Floors and walkways are covered, and the areas around each opening are prepared to minimise disruption. Removing existing windows and doors is a precise process that requires skill and patience; our team works methodically to take out old frames, glazing and seals without causing unnecessary disturbance to your interior finishes or exterior walls.

Once the space is carefully prepared, your new Fairco windows and doors are installed with the accuracy and detail that define our craftsmanship. This includes positioning the frame, securing it correctly, adding appropriate insulation, ensuring airtightness, and completing all finishing touches such as interior trims and exterior sealing. Throughout the day, you may hear the sound of drilling or cutting, and there may be moments when dust is visible. These are normal parts of the installation process, and our team manages them carefully to keep your home as orderly as possible.

Before moving from one area to the next, our installers take time to ensure each stage is completed to the highest standard. Their focus is not only on the beauty of the finished installation but also on long-term performance and durability, which is why precision is central to every step.

After the installation is complete

When the final product is in place, your installation experience doesn’t end there. A thorough post-installation check is carried out with you present. This is an opportunity to walk through each newly installed window and door, observing the finish, operation and overall appearance. Our team will demonstrate how each opening part works, explain locking mechanisms, show how trickle ventilation operates if applicable, and make sure you are fully comfortable with the day-to-day use of your new products.

We also take a moment to ensure you are satisfied with the cleanliness of the space. All coverings are removed, work areas are cleaned, and any packaging or leftover materials are taken away. What remains is a noticeably improved home – one that feels warmer, quieter and more secure from the very first moment.

A seamless, stress-free experience from start to finish

At Fairco, we believe installation day should feel as considered and reassuring as the consultation and design process. Our team is trained not only in technical skills but also in providing a respectful, customer-focused service that minimises disruption. Whether you are replacing a single entrance door or upgrading every window in your home, we take pride in delivering an experience defined by clarity, professionalism and exceptional craftsmanship

Book your free design consultation with our team or visit a Fairco showroom to see finishes and styles in person.

Apeer70 your front door without compromise

6th November 2025 by The Fairco Team

The front door of a home is far more than a functional necessity. It is the first impression, a statement of style, and a vital element of energy efficiency and security. Choosing the right door is therefore a critical decision for homeowners looking to enhance both the aesthetic and practical performance of their property.

The Apeer70 composite door stands out as a premium solution in this space. Combining modular design, robust security, thermal efficiency, and low maintenance, it offers a comprehensive package for modern and traditional homes alike. Whether renovating a period property or specifying a contemporary build, the Apeer70 is engineered to meet exacting standards in both performance and design.

Modular design for tailored aesthetics

One of the defining strengths of the Apeer70 door is its modular construction, which allows homeowners and designers to tailor every aspect of the door to suit the property’s style. Rather than a one-size-fits-all approach, Apeer70 offers flexibility in design, materials, and finishes, ensuring a harmonious match with both classic and contemporary architecture.

Variety of styles

The door range caters to diverse tastes. Homeowners can select from traditional or contemporary styles, including stable doors and fully glazed options. Each design is conceived to blend seamlessly with the surrounding architecture, whether in a period townhouse or a new-build development.

Colour and glazing options

Apeer70 offers an extensive colour palette and finishes, ensuring the door complements the home exterior perfectly. Homeowners can also choose from a range of decorative glazing options, including patterned, frosted, or leaded glass panels. These not only enhance visual appeal but also allow light into the home while maintaining privacy.

Bespoke hardware

From handles to hinges and letterplates, every hardware element is available in a range of finishes. This level of detail ensures that each door is not just functional but a statement piece reflecting the homeowner’s taste.

Seamless integration with Fairco windows

Apeer70 doors are designed to complement Fairco’s OMNIA Flush and Fairco Sash window ranges perfectly. The clean, contemporary lines of the OMNIA Flush windows align seamlessly with the sleek profiles of Apeer70 doors, creating a cohesive and modern exterior. For traditional or heritage-inspired properties, Fairco Sash windows share the same attention to detail and premium finishes, ensuring a harmonious aesthetic while maintaining the highest standards of energy efficiency and durability. This integration allows homeowners to achieve a consistent look across all openings, enhancing both curb appeal and property value.

Energy efficiency and thermal performance

Modern homeowners increasingly prioritise energy efficiency, both to reduce bills and to enhance sustainability. The Apeer70 composite door is designed with this in mind, offering a suite of features that ensure excellent thermal performance.

Insulated core and construction

At 70mm thick, the door incorporates a highly insulated polyurethane core that contributes to a notable A++ energy rating. This core helps prevent heat loss, keeping interiors warmer in winter and cooler in summer.

Advanced glazing

The use of triple glazing, including K-Glass and low-emissivity coatings, further improves insulation. Combined with a double rebated draft seal, these features reduce draughts and enhance indoor comfort.

Practical benefits

In addition to improving comfort, high thermal efficiency translates into lower energy bills and a reduced carbon footprint. For homeowners seeking a sustainable investment, this is a significant advantage.

Security features for peace of mind

Security is a fundamental consideration for any entrance door, and the Apeer70 is engineered to exceed standard expectations.

Robust locking system

The door incorporates a YALE locking mechanism, complete with anti-bump, anti-drill, anti-pick, and anti-snap Kitemarked cylinders. This ensures resistance to common forced-entry methods.

Reinforced core and hinges

Steel mesh reinforcement throughout the door core adds structural strength, while hinge-side steel dog bolts secure traditionally vulnerable areas. Together, these features provide a secure barrier against intrusion.

Tested and certified

Apeer70 doors are independently tested to ensure compliance with the latest UK and European security standards, providing tangible assurance of reliability for homeowners.

Low maintenance and long-term durability

Beyond aesthetics and performance, the Apeer70 is designed for minimal upkeep. Unlike traditional timber doors that require regular painting and maintenance, Apeer70 doors are weather-resistant, retaining their colour and finish over time.

Durable finishes

Colour-matched finishes maintain a consistent appearance even after prolonged exposure to the elements. The materials are engineered to resist warping, cracking, and fading, ensuring a long-lasting investment.

Practical advantages

For busy homeowners, the low-maintenance nature of the door saves time and reduces ongoing costs. This combination of durability and ease of care enhances overall satisfaction with the product.

The Fairco difference

The Apeer70 composite door represents a holistic approach to home entrances, combining modular design, high security, thermal efficiency, and durability in a single solution. Its customizable design ensures it complements any architectural style, while advanced insulation and security features provide both comfort and peace of mind.

Choosing an Apeer70 door is more than selecting a functional entry point; it is investing in a product that elevates the look, performance, and value of your home. Explore the Fairco door range today to discover styles, colours, and finishes that suit your home. Contact us for your free consultation and advice!

How to prevent condensation and black mould

30th October 2025 by The Fairco Team

Condensation and black mould are common issues in Irish homes, particularly during colder months when windows are kept closed and indoor heating is used more often. While a bit of condensation can seem harmless, frequent moisture build-up and mould growth can signal deeper problems with ventilation, insulation, and glazing performance. Left unresolved, they can harm both your home’s structure, indoor air quality and your health.

Let’s explore why condensation occurs, how it leads to mould, and what practical steps you can take to manage it. We will also highlight how modern window technology, like the systems Fairco installs, can help reduce condensation while improving comfort and energy efficiency.

What causes condensation?

Condensation forms when warm, humid indoor air meets a colder surface, such as your window glass. The temperature difference causes water vapour to turn into droplets. The issue becomes more noticeable in winter, when windows are cooler and indoor air tends to be more humid.

Common contributing factors include:

Poor insulation or glazing: Older single-glazed windows, or early-generation double glazing, cool quickly and provide a cold surface where moisture condenses.
High indoor humidity: Activities like cooking, showering, and drying clothes indoors increase moisture levels.
Insufficient ventilation: Without adequate airflow, humidity builds up indoors. This is often made worse when trickle vents are blocked or windows remain tightly sealed for long periods.

How condensation leads to black mould

When condensation persists, it creates damp conditions ideal for mould growth. Black mould thrives on surfaces that remain damp, such as window frames, sills, and surrounding plaster. Over time, this can damage finishes, cause unpleasant odours, and worsen respiratory conditions such as asthma and allergies.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), prolonged exposure to damp and mouldy environments is associated with respiratory symptoms and allergic reactions. Addressing condensation is therefore not only a maintenance issue but also a matter of home health.

How to fix and prevent condensation and mould

Improve ventilation:
Increase airflow throughout your home by opening windows for short bursts daily or ensuring trickle vents remain unblocked. In bathrooms and kitchens, use extractor fans that vent outdoors. Mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (MVHR) systems can also help maintain balanced humidity.
Manage indoor humidity:
Avoid drying clothes indoors where possible and cover pots while cooking. Using a dehumidifier can help maintain indoor humidity between 40 – 60%, which research shows is optimal for comfort and health.
Maintain consistent indoor temperatures:
Sharp temperature fluctuations encourage condensation. Keeping your home evenly heated, especially in rooms with large windows, helps prevent moisture from settling.
Upgrade to energy-efficient windows:
High-performance double and triple-glazed windows with low-emissivity (low-E) coatings and insulated frames reduce the temperature difference between interior glass and indoor air. This limits condensation formation. Fairco’s window systems are designed with advanced thermal insulation, helping maintain warmth while minimising the likelihood of condensation and the resulting damp.
Regular maintenance:
Clean window seals and frames periodically and check for damaged weatherstripping. Properly maintained seals prevent moisture ingress and preserve airtightness.

The long-term solution: balance insulation and ventilation

Condensation problems often occur when insulation improves, but ventilation does not. Modern homes are built to be highly airtight, which improves efficiency but traps humidity if ventilation isn’t managed. A balanced approach of combining efficient windows with adequate airflow creates a stable, comfortable indoor environment.

Fairco’s windows and doors are engineered to deliver this balance. With advanced glazing, thermal breaks, and precision installation, they help homeowners achieve improved insulation without compromising air quality.

Final thoughts

Condensation and mould are signs that your home’s insulation, ventilation, or glazing may need attention. By addressing humidity, improving airflow, and investing in high-performance windows, you can protect your home’s structure and create a healthier living space.

To learn more about improving your home’s efficiency and comfort, contact Fairco for tailored window and door solutions that reduce condensation and enhance performance year-round.

Save up to €1500 on your new entrance door this season!

24th October 2025 by The Fairco Team

As the colder months arrive, there’s never been a better time to upgrade your home’s entrance. This season, Fairco is giving homeowners more reasons to invest in quality, comfort, and style, with exclusive savings and free upgrades worth up to €1,500 when you choose an Apeer70 Composite Entrance Door before 31st March 2026.

When you order before the deadline, you’ll receive:

1. Premium paint

Choose from 13 standout premium colours – bold, elegant, and fade-resistant, designed to complement every style of home.

2. A++ Energy upgrade

Make the cold disappear. With enhanced insulation and an airtight design, you can enjoy lower energy bills and greater comfort year-round.

3. Magic Wreath Holder

Add festive flair without tools or damage. This clever magnetic fitting lets you hang decorations in seconds; secure, seamless, and stylish.

4. Enhanced security features

Featuring security-laminated glass and advanced locking systems, your Apeer70 door provides the strength and peace of mind every home deserves.

Premium colours — designed to stand out and built to last

With Fairco’s Apeer70 Composite Doors, you can choose from 13 premium colours, each formulated to retain depth and vibrancy over time.

From subtle neutrals to bold tones such as Porcelain Blue, Telemagenta Pink and Green Mist, the Apeer70 palette offers finishes to suit both traditional and contemporary homes. Colours are applied to a reinforced GRP surface using durable, UV-stable coatings, so your door resists fading, weathering and everyday wear.

You can match interior and exterior faces or choose complementary frames and trims for a cohesive entrance. Combined with Fairco’s expert installation and Apeer’s high-performance construction, your chosen colour will remain a standout feature for years to come.

The benefits of an Apeer70 composite door by Fairco

A composite door is more than an entrance; it’s an investment in comfort, security, and long-term performance. Each Fairco Apeer70 Composite Door is precision-engineered in Ireland and built to deliver superior energy efficiency, strength, and style all year round.

A++ energy upgrade for year-round comfort

A Fairco Apeer70 Composite Door is designed to deliver exceptional insulation and comfort in every season. At its core lies a 70 mm super-insulating polyurethane layer – up to seven times more thermally efficient than a standard door. This dense, high-performance core is enclosed within a reinforced GRP (glass-reinforced plastic) outer shell and internal steel structure, creating a door that’s strong, stable, and built to perform in Ireland’s changing climate.

A double-sealed rebate system keeps out draughts and moisture, while triple glazing with gas-filled units enhances warmth and sound insulation. The result is a quieter, more energy-efficient home with U-values as low as 1.0 W/m²K, helping to reduce energy bills while keeping your living space consistently comfortable.

Enhanced security and lasting strength

Every Apeer70 door by Fairco exceeds PAS 24 security standards, giving you complete peace of mind. Advanced multi-point locking systems, security-laminated glazing, and a rigid reinforced framework work together to protect your home against intrusion while maintaining a sleek, contemporary appearance.

Engineered to resist warping, fading, and cracking, each door is designed for long-term performance with minimal maintenance – no sanding, no repainting, just enduring strength and style. Paired with your chosen premium colour, your new Fairco entrance door becomes a statement of craftsmanship and confidence: elegant, distinctive, and built to last.

Design your dream entrance with our Door Builder

Magic Wreath Holder

A simple, elegant solution for seasonal decorating, the Magic Wreath Holder is a powerful magnetic fitting that allows you to hang a wreath without drilling or adhesives.

No damage: Hidden within the door surface, it leaves no marks or residue.
Strong and discreet: Two powerful magnets securely support wreaths or decorations of up to 350mm
Weather-resistant: Designed to last, with no rust or wear over time.

Included free of charge during this promotion (normally €300), it’s the perfect finishing touch, practical, stylish, and seamlessly integrated.

How the Holder works

We’ve included a short video showing how easily the Magic Wreath Holder attaches and removes, helping you display your autumn or festive wreath in seconds, no tools required.

Offer summary

What’s included	Benefit
Free Magic Wreath Holder (installed)	Stylish seasonal decorating with no damage
A++ Energy Upgrade	Enhanced insulation and an airtight design
Choice of 18 premium colours	Tailor your entrance to your home
Enhanced security features	Security-laminated glass and advanced locking systems
Professional Fairco installation	Expert fitting and lasting reliability

How to claim

Visit a Fairco showroom or contact our team for a consultation.
Choose your Apeer70 Composite Door in a premium colour.
Confirm your glazing, hardware, and finish details.
Place your order before 31st March 2026 to secure all the free upgrades worth up to €1,500.

This limited-time offer brings together performance, craftsmanship, and seasonal style, backed by Fairco’s trusted service and Irish manufacturing excellence.