What makes composite doors secure?

Front doors are the most popular point of entry amongst burglars in the UK, so it’s vital that your door is as secure as can be, ideally featuring multi-point locking systems and a reinforced core.

Burglars are increasingly capable of recognising weak, older doors that may lack these features, and target those unfortunate properties should the opportunity arise.

Rising demand for secure front doors has seen composite doors rise in popularity. Composite doors are made using a variety of materials, often a GRP outer skin, multi-point locks, reinforced frames and a solid timber/foam core, making them the go-to choice if security if your top priority.

Their benefits extend beyond security too, including leading thermal performance, a stylish aesthetic and low maintenance requirements. We’ll explore composite doors in-depth below, focusing on what makes them so secure, whilst taking a look at the range available in the West Midlands from Leamore Windows.

Composite door security: What makes composite doors so secure?

Composite doors are engineered using a combination of materials, unlike single material uPVC, aluminium or timber options.

These materials are specifically chosen for their ability to complement each other, and deliver leading strength and security amongst other perks like thermal performance. They’re the market’s best bet for withstanding forced entry attempts, and exceed even the strictest UK security standards.

Multi-point locking systems

One of the biggest security benefits is the use of advanced locking systems.

Instead of relying on a single lock, composite doors secure at multiple points along the door frame to ensure there are no weak points that could potentially be targetted. This typically includes:

• Hooks that latch into the frame
• Deadbolts for added strength
• Rollers that keep the door tightly sealed

This means the door is locked in several places at once, making it far more difficult for intruders to force it open. Many systems also include high-security, kitemarked cylinder locks that are resistant to snapping, drilling and picking.

Solid timber cores

At the heart of many composite doors, including the Solidor range we install, is a solid core made from wood.

48mm thick (10% thicker than most), the core is wrapped in a tough plastic edge banding, as well as two thermoplastic door skins bonded to the solid core. All of this combines to mean:

• Increased structural rigidity
• Better resistance to impact
• Greater protection against forced entry

Our own Leamore composite doors use a reinforced internal structure with LVL and high-density polyurethane foam, delivering impressive strength alongside excellent insulation.

Impact-resistant skins

The outer layer of a composite door plays a huge role in door security.

Most composite doors feature GRP skins (glass reinforced plastic), which are designed to be:

• Scratch resistant
• Weatherproof
• Highly durable against impact

Whilst the material may feel like plastic, it can effectively replicate the appearance of timber, featuring the iconic grains and weaves that have made wooden doors loved for centuries.

This outer layer protects the inside of the door from damage and prevents wear over time, resisting even the heaviest of British downpours, helping your door maintain its strength and appearance for years.

High-quality hardware

Whilst the materials play a key role in making composite doors are secure as they are, hardware also plays a key role:

Composite doors can be fitted with:

• Secure handles and hinges
• Reinforced letterplates
• Smart locking options

All of these components are tested to rigorous security standards such as PAS 24, which is recognised by insurance companies and UK police initiatives. It ensures your door has passed strict security testing for modern home security demands.

What are the other benefits of composite doors?

While composite door security is a major selling point, there are plenty of other reasons why they are the right choice for homeowners.

Thermal performance explained

Thermal efficiency simply means how well your door keeps heat inside your home in the winter, and repels it when not wanted in the summer.

Composite doors are designed with insulating cores and double or triple glazing options, helping to:

• Reduce heat loss
• Lower energy bills
• Keep your home warm in winter

Aesthetic appeal and kerb appeal

Composite front doors are available in a wide range of styles, colours and finishes.

Whether you prefer a modern design or something more traditional, you can choose from:

• Woodgrain finishes that replicate timber
• Bold contemporary colours like anthracite grey
• Classic tones such as Chartwell green

This means you don’t have to compromise on style to get the perfect door.

Customisation options

Composite doors offer incredible flexibility.

You can personalise:

• Glazing designs
• Hardware finishes
• Colours inside and out

Low maintenance requirements

Unlike wooden doors, composite doors don’t need regular painting or sealing.

A simple clean with warm soapy water is enough to keep them looking their best. This makes them ideal for busy households.

Durability and longevity

Composite doors are built to last.

Their combination of materials makes them resistant to:

• Warping
• Fading
• Weather damage

This ensures long-term performance and total peace of mind.

Composite doors supplied and installed by Leamore Windows

We’re a local, independent, family-run company in the heart of the West Midlands, which we feel is significant. National chains don’t have intricate knowledge of the area, it’s planning permission requirements, conservation areas and rising trends. You’re also promised a more personal service without bottlenecks, and shorter lead times.

Where do we work? We proudly install products across the West Midlands, including Walsall, Birmingham, Dudley, Lichfield and the surrounding areas. We employ an experienced, in-house team of installers who make sure you are happy with each project.

Here we outline the two composite door options we provide:

Solidor composite doors

Solidor doors are known for their solid timber core and premium construction. It’s a proven, trusted brand that we have installed for years:

Key benefits:

• Solid timber core for superior strength
• Advanced multi-point locking systems
• Wide range of colours and styles
• Durable GRP skins for weather resistance
• High-security cylinder options

Choose a Solidor door if:

• You want a traditional solid feel
• Security is your top priority
• You prefer a premium finish

Colours and hardware:
With over 30 colour options and a wide selection of handles, knockers and finishes, Solidor doors offer excellent design flexibility.

Leamore composite doors

Our in-house manufactured doors are designed with security, style and value in mind. In-house manufacturing means we quality-test at each stage. The main difference between this project and the Solidor, is that the Leamore has a foam core and the Solidor solid timber.

Key benefits:

• Reinforced internal structure for strength
• High-density foam core for thermal efficiency
• PAS 24 compliant security features
• Double and triple glazing options
• Manufactured by our expert team

Choose a Leamore door if:

• You want excellent value without compromising quality
• You prefer a fully customisable design
• You want a door made locally by a trusted company

Colours and hardware:
Available in standard and bespoke RAL colours, with a wide choice of handles, knockers and glazing styles.

Frequently asked questions

Are composite doors more secure than uPVC doors?

Yes. Composite door security is generally higher due to their solid core, multi-layer construction and advanced locking systems. While uPVC door security is reliable, composite doors provide greater resistance to forced entry attempts and meet more rigorous testing standards.

Are composite doors energy efficient?

Yes. Their insulated core and sealed construction help reduce heat loss. This improves thermal performance and can lower energy bills over time.

Who are Leamore Windows?

We are an award-winning, family-run local double glazing company established in 1983. Based in Walsall, we’ve built a strong reputation across the West Midlands for delivering high-quality windows, doors and conservatories.

Over the years, we’ve:

• Won ‘Windows and Conservatories Business of the Year’ eight times
• Been featured on BBC One’s DIY SOS
• Built our own manufacturing facility
• Gained FENSA accreditation

We pride ourselves on honest advice, no pressure sales and exceptional customer care.

If you’re considering a new composite front door, our friendly team is here to help. Feel free to visit our showroom in Bloxwich, give us a call or get in touch today to find the perfect door for your home.