Composite vs uPVC doors
When uPVC became a widely available choice for doors and windows it revolutionised home improvement as homeowners could opt for an economical product that was low maintenance.
Compared to wooden doors, uPVC was far more cost-effective and much easier to look after.
Since their introduction, uPVC doors have been a popular choice for front doors, but composite doors are now more popular due to their combination of qualities.
Composite doors are created from a variety of materials that combine to offer the best of each component. Whereas uPVC is limited by its own singular material.
Quality uPVC is a good material choice, but cheaper uPVC does not have the same longevity and can warp and discolour over time.
Composite doors have a sturdy internal frame reinforced with steel which makes them incredibly solid and rigid. This ensures that they keep their shape and are resistant to kicks and knocks without warping.
The external skin of the door is super tough, weatherproof and scratch-resistant. The woodgrain effect is infused with colour to remain vibrant without fading. The result is a door that can take a lot of knocks and use and won’t fade.
A uPVC door is reasonably low maintenance and hard-wearing, but it can scratch and the colour can fade in direct sunlight.
Possibly the most important factor for a front door is the security and a composite door has a combination of steel reinforcement and a solid frame that makes it much more difficult to smash through the panels or at the frame edges. uPVC with a multipoint locking system and British standard lock is highly secure, but composite does have the edge with the combination of strength and security features.
The uPVC door is more cost-effective for anyone on a budget. However, if you are looking long-term, a composite door has a longer lifespan, so could be a better investment.
| uPVC Doors | Composite Doors |
|---|
| Security | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Cost | ££ | £££ |
| Maintenance | Low | Low |
| Lifespan | 30 years | 35 years |
Disadvantages of composite doors
Composite doors have a lot of benefits and minimal disadvantages or problems.
Two factors to consider if choosing a composite door:
- All doors do drop in the frame over time. This is common across all types of door, and where regular maintenance can help. Adjusting the hinges helps to keep the door set right in the frame and if the door drops, you can adjust the strike plate.
- The other common feature is that a door will swell in hot weather, especially for south-facing houses. A good installer will take into account the tolerance needed to accommodate any swelling and also manufacture the door for a perfect fit that won’t stick in weather conditions.
Apart from these two points, the only other factor is that a composite door costs more than uPVC, although less than a timber door. However, as we mentioned above, as an investment over time, composite doors offer a good investment.
Ultimately, your door choice will be made by your specific requirements and your personal preferences. But, composite doors are the most popular front door choice in the UK for a reason.
Other factors that affect the price of composite doors
When choosing a new composite front door, there are a few other options that can impact the price, so make sure they are covered in your quote:
Design, basic design doors are cheaper than doors with decorative glazing or stable door options.
Colour/finish, a white door is usually the cheapest option, but you can also consider a dual colour where the door is a different colour on the inside and outside to match interior and exterior styling.
Glazing, make sure your glazing is energy efficient, or triple glazed for the most energy-efficient door.
Furniture, don't forget your letterbox, handles and knockers which will all be added extras and not always included in a quote. You might also want a door chain or restrictors and additional security measures.
Locking, the most important part of your door. Make sure you are quoted for a look that meets British security standards.
Installation, finally, you might think your door quote covers fitting and installation but most prices for composite doors are supply only. Always use a reputable supplier that is registered with a competent person scheme.
How long will a composite door last?
A composite door has a minimum lifespan of 35 years. But with good care, it could last for much longer.
The main factor that can affect the lifespan of your door is the weather. A door facing the coast will have a considerably shorter lifespan due to the corrosive effect of salt water and exposure. Usually, coastal doors are not guaranteed for the same amount of time as a property that is 5 miles away from the coast.
The other big factor that you might not consider is the sun. A door that faces south will be under extreme pressure from thermal contraction and compression as the sun heats and then cools on a daily basis.
This accordion effect puts stress on every part of the door including the surface, and the structure. Installing a canopy or overhang for shading will help the door last much longer and keep it out of direct sunlight and weather elements.
If a composite door is well maintained, protected from the elements and well installed it should last a long time and only need changing if it becomes damaged and won’t lock. Or, if you want to change the style.
What should my composite door quote include?
If you are comparing quotes for a new composite door then make sure you're comparing like-for-like. As we mentioned at the beginning of this article, be aware of what you're actually getting - is it a full door set with installation, or is it just a basic door slab?
A complicated installation can also affect the price. For this reason, don't accept a new front door price until the supplier has surveyed where the door is to be installed.
So that you can compare door-for-door, your composite door quote should include:
- A technical survey
- Full details of the product
- Any extras, and door furniture
- Door handles
- The locking system
- The energy rating for any glass
- When will the door be fitted?
- Guarantees of the product and installation
- Company details and their accreditations
- Disposal of your old door (many people forget this)
Standards to be aware of when buying a new door
For a composite front door, you want to make sure the locks meet security standards, you can read more about what is the best front door for security here.
Standards for door locks:
- BS 3621 or EN 13309 for five-lever mortice locks
- TS 007 3* or SS 312 diamond for an anti-snap euro lock
Standards for a front door:
- BSI PAS 24 Standards
- Secured by Design
Standards for a front door installer:
- Competent Person Scheme (CERTASS)
- Fenestration Self Assessment Scheme (FENSA)
In some cases, you might need building regulation compliance when changing a front door – usually for a door with glazing. To meet requirements, use a trusted supplier who is registered with a competent person scheme such as CERTASS or FENSA.