5 differences between uPVC and composite doors

UPVC vs composite doors is a regular debate among homeowners, given that they are two of the most popular new doors in the UK. The latter are comprised of a blend of materials and are often up to twice as thick as uPVC doors. Broadly, as a result, composite doors are able to offer enhanced security and thermal efficiency, which can help lower energy bills compared to uPVC doors. However, with that being said, uPVC doors will always remain a firm favourite for homeowners because of their versatility and budget-friendly appeal. So, what is the right choice between uPVC and composite new doors?

1) How secure and durable are uPVC doors compared to composite doors?

Typically, composite doors are known for their superior security in comparison to uPVC. That is not, however, to say that uPVC doors are not secure. With a uPVC door, there are multi-point locking systems in place that help to accentuate the security features of the door. UPVC doors are generally made up of reinforced panels, having been strengthened further with materials such as carbon fibre or metal.

When it comes to the security of composite doors, however, there are some differences. For a start, composite doors are thicker than uPVC doors – often up to twice as thick. For example, Solidor’s composite door includes a unique 48mm solid timber core.

2) Can you customise your uPVC doors as much as you can with composite doors?

Both doors have a range of colour options and traditional style design options available to them. Composite doors are considerably wider-ranging, with a multitude of colours to choose from. UPVC doors, meanwhile, are more limited overall. Be it a traditional property or a modern one, composite doors will generally be able to be designed with the help of a skilled door designer in a way that will complement the aesthetic of the home.

While uPVC doors are by no means one dimensional in their potential exterior looks, they are more limited because of their typical singular material-based design, unlike those that utilize an insulated steel frame. With a broad choice of colours, glazing options, and finishes, composite doors are comparatively impressive when it comes to their customisable qualities and exceptional thermal insulation properties, making them the perfect door choice for homeowners.

3) Which door offers the best value for money, uPVC or composite?

One considerable difference between the two door types is the price. UPVC products have long been known for their budget-friendly appeal, due to the manufacturing costs being kept down. This in turn offers a great option for homeowners who are seeking a replacement door on a budget, but one that still presents a large number of benefits.

Composite doors are on the more expensive side, which is largely due to the range of high quality materials used during the manufacturing process. While the costs can seem dear, there is still value for money with composite doors because of their long lifespan and the wealth of advantages within their modern designs, including reduced reliance on central heating.

4) Maintenance and lifespan of uPVC doors and composite doors

Generally, quality composite doors, including elegant French doors, are known to be more likely to last longer when compared to uPVC doors. Approximately, composite doors can last up to 35 years while the lifespan of uPVC doors tends to be around 20-25 years. However, composite doors are available in a wide range of styles, and there is the potential for both doors to last for a longer time, particularly uPVC. Of course, these figures are largely based on the assumption that sufficient maintenance will be kept up throughout.

In terms of maintenance, both types of doors, composite doors and uPVC doors, share similarities and require very little maintenance. With regular upkeep, including an occasional wipe down with warm soapy water, each door will be able to maintain their aesthetic appeal, as well as limit any sort of damage. If not maintained effectively, paint can start to peel, seals can start to break, and hinges can loosen.

5) Are composite doors more energy-efficient than uPVC doors?

Both composite doors and uPVC doors boast fantastic energy-efficient designs. Our uPVC doors can achieve up to an A+ rating as well as low U-values. UPVC doors are effective at keeping warmth in your home during the winter as they act as thermal barriers with help from their multi-chambered profile.

Composite doors, though, often lay claim to having the best designs in terms of energy efficiency. The market-leading design and construction ensure that heat is retained inside your home, with any cold or dampness kept firmly outside.

At Leamore, we install two different sets of composite doors – the XtremeDoor and Solidor. Solidor also has A+ rated efficiency along with U-values as low as 1 W/m², while the XtremeDoor has a triple-sealed outer frame along with a high insulating core to help keep your home at an optimal temperature year-round.

Which is best, uPVC doors or composite doors?

Composite doors have proven to be a progressively popular choice for front doors throughout the West Midlands and beyond because of the numerous benefits they afford, including minimizing heat loss in both modern and period properties. Affordability in general, however, may see busy homeowners looking at uPVC doors as the go-to for a budget-friendly, all-round option. It could be said, though, that composite doors can see a return on that extra bit of investment required for a purchase.

Overall, composite doors have many unique benefits and positives such as their aesthetic range, extensive security features, and energy efficiency. The appeal for uPVC doors, including their suitability for both front and back doors, is not lost, with the lower price certainly not compromising their performance, along with being weather-resistant and low maintenance. Additionally, composite doors can be designed as stable doors, enhancing their versatility.

Which is better for noise insulation, uPVC or composite doors?

When considering noise insulation, composite front doors generally offer better soundproofing compared to uPVC doors. This is due to their construction, which often includes a solid core and an insulated foam layer along with multiple layers that are placed under high pressure to effectively absorb sound. While uPVC doors do provide a certain level of insulation, they tend to be less effective in minimizing noise compared to the more robust design of composite front doors.

Do composite doors require more maintenance than uPVC doors?

Composite doors generally require more maintenance than uPVC doors, especially when considering the ongoing debate of composite vs uPVC. This is because composite doors, made from a combination of materials, may need regular checks to ensure their seals and finishes are intact. On the other hand, uPVC doors are known for their low maintenance requirements, as they do not need painting and are resistant to fading, warping, and corrosion. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth is typically sufficient to keep uPVC doors looking new, whereas composite doors might require occasional refinishing to maintain their appearance.

Visit Leamore Windows and decide between a new uPVC door or composite door

At Leamore Windows, we offer a wide range of both uPVC doors and composite doors. So get in touch today and see what we can do for your home. You can get a quote from us online or call on 01922 473737.