All you need to know about composite doors

Are you looking to replace a door or give your home a refresh? You might want to consider composite doors.

These doors offer the perfect blend of style and functionality, making them a popular choice for homeowners. If you’re thinking about installing one at home, here’s what you need to know.

What are composite doors and what are they made of?

Composite doors are a type of door that is made from a mixture of materials. Usually, they are made from a combination of wood fibre and plastic but they may include elements of metal, too. You’ll see these in contrast to wooden doors, which are wholly crafted from timber, and uPVC doors. uPVC doors consist of an insulated steel frame with a coating of un-plasticized polyvinyl chloride (UPVC).

As you’ll discover, the construction of composite doors makes them a great option for a variety of homes – and it’s easy to see why composite doors are an increasingly popular choice for homeowners.

The benefits of having a composite door

Composite doors offer many benefits over traditional wood doors and are a great option for a main entrance. Let’s look at a few of benefits of in more detail.

Energy-efficiency

Firstly, composite doors offer excellent insulation, keeping your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer. This feature makes them a great option if you’re looking to reduce your energy bills and make your home more environmentally friendly.

Durability

Because composite doors are made from several materials, rather than one, they are strong and durable. Often, they have steel reinforcement for added strength but remain lightweight so you get the best of both worlds.

What’s more, the wood and plastic mixture adds resistance to warping and cracking. This can be a particular bonus for those who live in humid climates or experience extreme changes in temperature throughout the year.

Design variety

If you’re searching for the perfect door to complement your home, composite could be the way to go. These doors are available in a wide range of colours and styles, making it easy to find one that will suit your decor choices. They are suitable for modern homes, new builds, and older properties.

Low-maintenance

As well as coming in a variety of styles to suit every taste, composite doors are easy to maintain – there’s no need to worry about varnishing or protecting the wood. Read on to discover how to care for composite doors!

How to care for your composite door

Caring for your composite door is important in order to keep it looking its best and functioning properly. Fortunately, it’s also easy to do! Here are some tips on keeping your composite door clean and fresh…

• Sweep or brush away dirt, leaves, and other debris from the door regularly.

• If the door becomes dirty, you can clean it with a mild soap and water solution. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scrubbers, as this can damage the door.

• If you notice any cracks or chips in the door, fill them in with a composite filler kit.

• Composite doors are low-maintenance and don’t require much painting or staining. However, if you do decide to paint or stain your door, be sure to use a composite-friendly product.

By following these simple tips, you can keep your composite door looking great for years to come!

The different types of composite doors available

Now you know how easy it is to look after your composite doors, you might be wondering what varieties are available.

• Traditional: Do you want a door that has the strength of a composite construction but the aesthetic of a wooden door? Fortunately, there are many composite doors designed to look like real wood.

• Contemporary: On the other hand, you can also get a more modern style with a smooth surface and clean-cut design.

• Single door: If you want a more classic front door, go for a single composite door.

• Double door: Alternatively, you might want to look at double composite doors that can open out onto a patio or garden. These can let in lots of light whilst keeping your home well insulated.

Solid core or insulated core?

Some composite doors feature a solid core, made from timber or dense foam. Others have an insulated core with aluminium or timber reinforcement.

Both are durable and weather-resistant. However insulated core doors tend to be more lightweight than solid core designs.

You may find that composite doors with a foam core are cheaper to purchase.

Composite door FAQs

We’ve put together some frequently asked questions to cover all your composite door queries.

Are composite doors better than uPVC doors?

It all depends on what you want from your door – both have their benefits. However, it’s worth noting that composite doors are more robust than uPVC designs. As such, they can last longer and look better years down the line.

How long do composite doors last?

With proper care, composite doors can last for many years. In fact, they are often backed by long-term warranties from the manufacturer. This means that you can enjoy your composite door for many years to come without having to worry about replacing it.

Can I install a composite door myself?

If you’re a keen home decorator with a talent for DIY, it should only take a few hours to install your new composite door. Remember though, if you’re not confident with this sort of task, you may be best off getting a professional in. Having a professional fit your door can take away the pressure and can reduce the risk of error.

Are composite doors more expensive than wooden doors?

Generally, wooden doors cost more than composite or uPVC doors due to the material needed and the manufacturing method.

How much do composite doors cost?

There’s no one-size answer to this question. Composite door costs vary depending on the size, material, and manufacturer. You may find that certain colours and the addition of glass panels increase the cost of your new door.

As a general rule of thumb, you can expect to pay around £600 for a basic composite door (supply only – installation will bump the price up).

If you’re looking for a composite door that meets your specific needs and budget, be sure to shop around and compare quotes from different manufacturers before making your final decision.