What is the difference between a uPVC door and a composite door?
Traditionally, doors were always made from timber. Then along came uPVC and became the most popular choice for front and back doors. uPVC is more economical when compared to wood and is a lower maintenance option without the need for care and painting.
And now, composite doors are the most popular choice in the UK.
The main difference between a uPVC door and a composite door is that a composite door is made from a combination of materials that offer all the benefits of each. A uPVC door is a singular material and limited by its properties.
A composite door is just as easy to maintain as uPVC but it also looks better than uPVC as it has the moulded wood-effect grain that looks as good as timber.
uPVC doors are still a popular choice but if you want a front door that will be long-lasting and retain its polished exterior composite doors are now a better investment.
Our premium GRP composite doors boast a robust 70mm thickness, SmartLock from Yale for added security and weatherproof seals. See more…
Problems with composite doors
Composite doors have very few problems but, as with other doors, they will swell in hot weather, especially if the door is south facing. This is unavoidable, so when your door is installed, make sure it's fitted to accommodate the natural swelling a door can expect. Also, make sure that your composite door is manufactured to the perfect size so that it doesn't stick in warm weather.
Another common problem with composite doors and all doors is that after time they drop. Again, this is unavoidable. If your composite door drops, you can adjust the strike plate or the hinges so that it closes easily.
Some people think that it's a problem that composite doors initially cost more to buy than uPVC doors. However, if you factor in the longevity of the door, when you calculate the cost over its lifespan in comparison to another door then a composite door is a better value investment.
Do composite doors fade?
Keeping a door looking bright and glossy can be a challenge, especially if your front door faces serious weathering from wind and rain. uPVC doors are available in bright colours but they can fade over time, especially if they are subject to strong UV light. Timber doors will crack and peel when beaten by rain and dried by hot weather.
Composite doors are finished in a resistant GRP (fibreglass) material that is used on boats – and if a North Sea fishing boat can withstand the elements, your composite door can take whatever is thrown at it.
Composite doors shouldn't fade – the colours are designed to be vibrant and long-lasting and guaranteed to last far longer than timber and uPVC.