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Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about our roller garage doors, retractable awnings, installation process and guarantees.
Who are Kingsmere Home Improvements?
Kingsmere Home Improvements has been installing premium roller garage doors and bespoke retractable awnings since 2001. We are a UK manufacturer and installer — we don't subcontract. All our products are made to measure in the UK and fitted by our own employed team. We serve homeowners across Hampshire, Surrey, Kent, West Sussex, East Sussex and Berkshire.
What areas do you cover?
We cover the whole of the South of England including Surrey, Hampshire, Kent, West Sussex, East Sussex, Berkshire, and Greater London. Our team carries out free surveys and installations throughout these areas with no travel charges. If you're unsure whether we cover your location, call us on 0330 633 6288 or get in touch.
Is the initial survey really free?
Completely free, with absolutely no obligation. A Kingsmere specialist visits your home at a time to suit you, takes precise measurements, demonstrates options and provides a written fixed price. There is no pressure to purchase. If you decide not to proceed, that's entirely your choice — no charge, no follow-up calls.
How do I get a price?
The easiest way is to request a free survey online or call us on 0330 633 6288. We'll arrange a convenient appointment, visit your home and give you an accurate fixed price in writing. All prices are fully inclusive — there are no hidden extras.
Do you use subcontractors?
No — never. Every survey and installation is carried out by Kingsmere's own directly-employed team. This means consistent quality, accountability, and a seamless experience from first contact to completed installation.
Can I see your products in a showroom?
We bring samples, colour charts and brochures to your home as part of the free survey — so you can see and feel the products in your own environment, next to your actual brickwork, tiles and paintwork. This is far more useful than a showroom visit. Call 0330 633 6288 to arrange.
What sizes of roller garage door can you make?
Every roller door is made-to-measure for your exact garage opening — any width from around 1.8m up to 6m and any height up to 3m. Our surveyor will measure your opening and ensure the door is a perfect fit, regardless of whether your garage has a standard or non-standard aperture.
What colours are available?
We offer 40+ standard RAL colours, including the most popular choices: Anthracite Grey (RAL 7016), Chartwell Green (RAL 6021), Cream (RAL 9001), Pure White (RAL 9010) and Jet Black (RAL 9005). Any RAL colour can be specified on request. We also offer woodgrain-effect finishes that replicate the look of timber.
How does the motor work and how quiet is it?
Our roller doors use precision tubular motors housed inside the rolling barrel — the motor is virtually silent in operation. Most customers describe it as quieter than a standard up-and-over door. Two remote handsets are included as standard. The door opens or closes fully in around 15–20 seconds depending on height.
What happens if there's a power cut?
All our roller doors include a manual override as standard. During a power cut, you simply insert a release key and operate the door manually by hand. You will never be locked in or out of your garage, regardless of power supply conditions.
How secure is a roller garage door?
Kingsmere roller doors are manufactured from twin-walled aluminium with foam insulation — far more rigid than single-skin or steel alternatives. The door locks automatically into both side guides when closed, with no exposed hinges or attack points. Our doors are Secured by Design approved and significantly more secure than traditional up-and-over or sectional doors.
Will a roller door suit my garage opening?
Roller doors are suitable for the vast majority of domestic garages. They require a small amount of headroom above the aperture (typically 250–300mm) and side room of around 145mm on each side. Our surveyor will confirm suitability during the free visit and suggest the best solution for any unusual or restricted openings.
Can I control my roller door from my smartphone?
Yes — our smart-home option connects your roller door to a Wi-Fi module that integrates with iOS and Android apps. You can open, close and check the status of your door from anywhere in the world. The system also supports Alexa and Google Home voice control, and can be integrated into existing smart-home setups.
What types of awning do you offer?
We offer five premium awning models: the Coniston (cassette awning, ideal for most homes), the Windermere (full-cassette, premium protection), the Jan des Bouvrie (designer Dutch model), the Kentmere (commercial-grade, wide spans), and the Thirlmere (full-cassette with LED lighting option). All are made-to-measure and available motorised or manual.
What is the difference between motorised and manual awnings?
Manual awnings are operated with a hand crank and are perfectly suited to smaller sizes. Motorised awnings extend and retract at the touch of a button using a wall switch or remote control — they can also be fitted with a wind sensor that automatically retracts the awning in gusty conditions, protecting the fabric and frame. We recommend motorisation for awnings over 3m wide.
How wide can an awning be?
Widths range from 1.5m up to 12m depending on the model. The Kentmere commercial model can span up to 12m without intermediate posts. All awnings are made-to-measure for your exact wall space. Projection (how far the awning extends from the wall) typically ranges from 1.5m to 4m.
Are awnings weatherproof?
Awnings are primarily designed to provide shade and light rain cover — they are not designed to be used in heavy rain or strong wind. We always recommend a motorised wind sensor for added protection. All our fabrics are UV-resistant and rated for outdoor use. When retracted into the cassette, the fabric is fully protected from the elements.
How many fabric colours and patterns are available?
We offer hundreds of fabric options including solid colours, stripes, textures and contemporary patterns. Fabrics are selected from Dickson, Sattler and Tempotest collections — all tested to Class 1 UV resistance. Frame colours are available in a full RAL palette. Our surveyor will bring a large sample selection to your home.
Can an awning be fitted to any wall?
Awnings can be wall-mounted or fascia-mounted in most cases. They require a solid fixing surface — brick, stone, render or timber fascia. Our surveyor will assess your wall during the free visit and recommend the correct fixing method, including any wall plugs or structural plates required for unusually soft or hollow substrates.
How long does installation take?
Most roller garage door and awning installations are completed in a single day — typically 3–6 hours. Our fitters arrive in the morning and leave with everything fully operational and tidy. No scaffolding is required and no structural work is needed in the vast majority of cases.
Do I need planning permission?
In the vast majority of cases, no planning permission is required for replacing an existing garage door or for fitting a domestic awning. Permitted development rights generally cover these works. However, if your property is a listed building or in a conservation area, restrictions may apply. We recommend checking with your local planning authority if in any doubt. Our surveyor can also advise.
Do I need to be at home during installation?
Yes — we ask that an adult is present during installation. The fitter will need access to a power supply and may need to ask you a couple of questions during the job. At completion, they'll walk you through how to operate and maintain your new product and answer any questions you may have.
What happens to my old garage door?
Our team will remove and take away your existing garage door as part of the installation — no additional charge. The old door will be responsibly disposed of or recycled. We leave your property clean and tidy.
How long is the wait between ordering and installation?
Lead times vary by season, but typically range from 3–6 weeks from order to installation. Your surveyor will confirm the current lead time at the point of quote. We'll always aim to give you a specific installation date as soon as your order is confirmed.
Will the installation cause damage to my brickwork?
Minimal. Our fitters drill neat fixing holes for the guide channels and fascia, which are then sealed and finished. The visible fixings are hidden behind the frame. No render, plaster or paintwork inside the garage is disturbed in a standard installation.
What guarantee do I get with my installation?
Every Kingsmere installation is backed by a comprehensive 5-year parts and workmanship guarantee. Roller door motors carry an additional 7-year manufacturer warranty on top of this. Awning frames and fabrics are covered by a 5-year guarantee. All guarantees are in writing and fully transferable if you sell your home.
Is the guarantee transferable if I sell my house?
Yes — the full guarantee transfers automatically to the new owner at no charge. This adds genuine value to your property and is often highlighted during conveyancing.
What if something goes wrong after installation?
Simply call us on 0330 633 6288 or email sales@kingsmerehomes.co.uk. We aim to respond to all service enquiries within one working day. If the issue is covered by your guarantee, we will repair or replace the affected component at no charge. We don't charge call-out fees for guarantee work.
Do you offer a service and maintenance plan?
Yes — we offer an annual service plan that includes a full mechanical check, lubrication of all moving parts, and a motor performance test. Regular servicing extends the life of your installation and keeps the warranty intact. Ask your surveyor for details or call us to arrange.
My door or awning is outside its guarantee period — can you still help?
Absolutely. We provide ongoing aftercare and repair services for all Kingsmere products regardless of age. Call 0330 633 6288 and our service team will advise on the most cost-effective course of action — whether that's a replacement part, a service visit, or considering an upgrade.
Ready to find out more?
Book a free, no-obligation survey and we'll visit your home, answer every question in person and give you a clear fixed price.
Book a Free SurveyCall us on 0330 633 6288