Understanding wicket doors
Wicket doors provide an independent side entry point within a larger garage door or roller shutter, enabling people to enter and exit safely. Unlike a full garage door, which requires space and effort to open, a wicket gate offers quick, convenient access while maintaining security and insulation.
Modern wicket doors are built from galvanised steel, aluminium, or timber, combining strength with aesthetic appeal. Many are powder coated or painted in a wide range of RAL colours, allowing them to match the existing garage door and property façade. Correctly installed wicket doors can reduce heat loss and improve energy efficiency, particularly when the garage is attached to heated spaces.
Integration with roller shutters
Roller shutters with an integrated wicket door allow homeowners to retain full functionality of the main shutter while providing a separate side door for occupants. The wicket door is typically integrated into the outer frame, ensuring smooth operation without interfering with the shutter mechanism.
In the UK and Ireland, homeowners appreciate the ability to enter the garage without fully raising the shutter, which is especially useful in bad weather. Retailers and installers should explain that a properly fitted wicket gate preserves the locking action and overall security of the main garage door.
Easy access for occupants
The main benefit of a wicket door is daily convenience. Whether it functions as a pass door for homeowners, a personnel door in a workshop, or simply a side door for occupants to access the garage or garden, a wicket gate allows safe entry without opening the full garage door.
For narrow doorways, precise measurement of frame and dimensions is essential. The threshold should be flush to avoid trips, and concealed hinges ensure a smooth exterior. Retailers should advise clients to consider how often the wicket door will be used and whether it will handle frequent traffic.
Integration with garage doors
Wicket doors can be incorporated into sectional doors, roller shutters, or hinged garage doors, providing a separate access for people without compromising the main door. Installation requires accurate measurement and careful alignment of the door frame to ensure the wicket door operates smoothly and integrates seamlessly with the main door panels.
In roller shutter systems, the wicket door slides within the guide rail, allowing the main shutter to be fully opened without obstruction. This ensures both convenient access and full security, providing a reliable solution for homeowners.
Materials and construction
Wicket doors are available in galvanised steel, aluminium, or timber. Steel offers high strength and durability, aluminium is lightweight and corrosion-resistant, while timber provides a classic appearance but requires maintenance in the damp climate of the UK and Ireland.
The door frame is crucial for durability. Outer frames must be strong, and wicket door frame profiles are designed to withstand repeated use. Well-constructed wicket doors minimise heat loss, ensure smooth locking, and prevent draughts.
Colour options and finishes
Homeowners often want RAL colour options and finishes that allow wicket doors to complement main garage doors and the overall property appearance. From subtle neutrals to bold colours, painted or powder-coated wicket doors suit both contemporary and traditional garage designs.
Properly chosen wicket doors enhance the property’s façade while integrating seamlessly with the garage door, creating an aesthetically pleasing and practical entrance.
Installation tips
Professional installation is recommended for all wicket doors to ensure smooth operation, correct alignment, and secure locks. Fitting the frame, positioning hinges, and installing the threshold must be precise to avoid gaps, drafts, or mechanical issues. Following the manufacturer’s instructions and careful measurement helps achieve optimal performance.
Retailers should inform clients that correctly fitted wicket doors reduce wear on the main roller shutter, prevent unnecessary heat loss, and maintain long-term usability. Accessories such as rails, handles, or automation controls can enhance convenience and security.
Choosing the right wicket door
Selecting the right wicket door increases the functionality of any garage, providing independent access for people while maintaining security and energy efficiency. With proper installation, material choice, and attention to colour options, homeowners in the UK and Ireland can enjoy convenient, safe, and aesthetically pleasing access to their garage year-round.
Integration with smart home systems
Modern wicket doors can also be incorporated into smart home setups, allowing homeowners in the UK and Ireland to control garage access remotely. Through connected apps, smart locks on the wicket door can be monitored, locked, or unlocked from a smartphone, enhancing convenience and security. Integration with sensors or alarms ensures that the door alerts occupants if left open, providing additional peace of mind. Retailers and installers can highlight that combining a wicket door with smart home technology not only simplifies daily use but also adds a contemporary, high-tech feature that increases the property’s value and usability.
DAKO garage doors, including models with integrated wicket doors, are manufactured to high standards, ensuring durability, smooth operation, and long-term security — helping retailers and installers deliver outstanding value with every installation.
