Pros and Cons of Composite Doors – What They Are, Cost & Customisation
Composite Doors – Advantages & Disadvantages
Composite doors have been gaining popularity in recent years. They are touted as a superior alternative to traditional wooden and uPVC doors. In this specialist guide, we delve into the pros and cons of composite doors to help you make an informed decision for your home.
To know more about composite doors, you can see UK Composite Doors’ range here.
What Are Composite Doors?
Composite doors are made from a combination of materials, typically wood, uPVC, glass-reinforced plastic (GRP), and insulating foam. This blend of materials results in a door that is strong, durable, and energy-efficient.
Pros of Composite Doors
There are many advantages to getting and fitting a composite door in your home, especially as your new long-term front door. There is a reason they are becoming increasingly more popular compared to uPVC and timber doors.
Here are some of the big benefits of composite doors:
Durability
One of the standout features of composite doors is their durability. Unlike traditional wooden doors, composite doors are resistant to warping, rotting, and cracking, making them ideal for harsh weather conditions.
Security
Composite doors offer enhanced security features, often featuring multi-point locking systems and high-quality hardware. This makes them highly resistant to forced entry, providing homeowners with peace of mind.
Energy Efficiency
With their insulating foam core and tight seals, composite doors are excellent at retaining heat and keeping out drafts. This can lead to energy savings on heating bills, especially in colder climates.
Low Maintenance
Unlike wooden doors that require regular painting or staining, composite doors are virtually maintenance-free. A simple wipe-down with soapy water is usually all that’s needed to keep them looking their best.
Versatility
Composite doors come in a wide range of styles, colours, and finishes, allowing homeowners to find the perfect match for their home’s aesthetic. From traditional to contemporary designs, there’s a composite door to suit every taste.
Weather Resistance
Thanks to their construction materials, composite doors are highly resistant to weathering, UV rays, and moisture. This means they won’t fade, warp, or deteriorate over time, ensuring long-lasting beauty and performance.
Cons of Composite Doors
As great as composite doors are, they can sometimes have their downsides, like all things do. We will go through some of the potential drawbacks of getting a composite door.
Cost
While composite doors offer numerous benefits, they often have a higher price tag than uPVC doors. However, many homeowners view this as a worthwhile investment due to the door’s longevity and durability.
Although, the initial cost may be higher for a composite door compared to a uPVC door, the latter is far more prone to warping and swelling in changing temperatures. This means that it won’t be as energy efficient, and you may have issues closing the door properly.
Having a uPVC door may actually be more expensive in the long run since you are far more likely to repair or replace it, whereas a composite door is much less low maintenance.
Weight
Composite doors tend to be heavier than their wooden or uPVC counterparts, which can make installation more challenging. It’s important to ensure proper support and hinges are in place to accommodate the door’s weight.
Environmental Impact
While composite doors are durable and long-lasting, the manufacturing process involves various materials, some of which may not be eco-friendly. However, many manufacturers are taking steps to reduce their environmental footprint.
Customisation Constraints
While composite doors offer a range of styles and finishes, customisation options may be more limited than those of wooden doors. Homeowners with unique design preferences may find their choices somewhat restricted.
Despite this, there is still a huge range of stylistic options for composite doors, along with different colours and hardware options. This means they are able to cover almost all the practical and aesthetic needs of homeowners when they are looking for a composite door.
Getting Composite Doors
Composite doors offer a compelling combination of durability, security, energy efficiency, and aesthetics, making them an attractive option for modern homeowners.
While they may come with a higher initial cost and some limitations, the long-term benefits often outweigh these considerations.
By weighing the pros and cons outlined in this guide, you can make an informed decision about whether composite doors are the right choice for your home.
