Behind Closed Doors: Pros, Cons, and Features of Different Home Doors

Jokes aside, there are so many options for upgrading your doors, and it can be tough to choose the perfect one.

But don't worry, but we've got you covered.

In this guide, we'll talk about the types of doors available and what makes them special.

(U-values are lower, the better)

PVCU Doors & Bespoke PVCU Doors

We thought we should start our guide with ol' reliable, and according to Google search trends, they're becoming ever more popular - With a 110% increase in searches over the last three years.

PVCU doors have a clean look and come in various styles and colours, offering decent insulation (an average U-value of 1.8 W/m²K) and low maintenance needs.

However, If you're looking for something more unique or something to match your home's unique aesthetic, uPVC doors can be custom-designed to match your style. They have similar insulation to standard PVCU doors and are built to last all the same; you can also add extra security features like multi-point locking systems.

Just keep in mind that bespoke doors are often a little pricier than your standard PVCU doors.

Composite Doors

Super versatile in appearance, with a range of styles, colours, and finishes that can even mimic wood. They're also super secure, thanks to their solid core construction and multi-point locking systems. The cost can vary heavily depending on design and customisation options.

French Doors

Why settle for one door when you can have two? French doors are elegant and timeless, fitting in with both traditional and contemporary homes. If you opt for double-glazed options, you'll get good insulation (U-values around 1.4 W/m²K). They can be made from materials like wood, PVCU, and aluminium. While multi-point locking systems are available, the large glass panes might be more vulnerable to break-ins. Cost often depends on the materials and design features.

Patio Doors

These modern doors offer unobstructed views and let in lots of natural light. You can choose double or triple glazing for better insulation (U-values from 1.0 to 1.8 W/m²K). They're durable and low maintenance, and you can add extra security with multi-point locking systems and reinforced glass. Patio doors come at a moderate price, with a range of styles and materials to choose from.

Bi-Fold / Sliding Doors

These sleek, contemporary doors maximise natural light and create a smooth transition between indoors and outdoors. High-quality materials and fittings ensure durability, and features like multi-point locking systems and anti-lift options enhance security. They come with double or triple energy-efficient glazing options (U-values from 1.1 to 1.8 W/m²K). The cost depends on the materials, size, and customisation options.

Stable Doors

Stable doors are perfect for country-style homes if you love a rustic, charming look. Insulation varies based on construction and materials (U-values from 1.4 to 2.0 W/m²K). These doors are made from various materials such as wood, PVCU, or composite materials, each with different durability characteristics. While multi-point locking systems are available, be cautious that the separate top and bottom door sections might pose a security risk if not properly secured. The cost depends on materials and design features.

Aluminium Security Doors

Aluminium doors have a modern, sleek look and come in various styles and finishes; they require minimal maintenance with features such as thermal break technology for good insulation (U-values around 1.5 W/m2K) and high resistance to corrosion, warping, and cracking. These doors are moderate to highly-priced due to their premium quality and enhanced security features. Robust construction and multi-point locking systems offer exceptional security.

Additionally, a study published in Remodeling magazine in 2023 found that replacing a house's entry door with a metal one had a return on investment of 100.8% when resold, ranking it as one of the most cost-effective home improvement projects of the day.

Conclusion

So there you have it. We've discussed the pros and cons of various door types to help you make an informed decision. When choosing the right door for your home, remember to consider factors like your budget, personal style, insulation needs, and security requirements. We've discussed the pros and cons of various door types to help you make an informed decision. Take some time to think about what you want and need in a door, and you'll be sure to find one that not only complements your home's style but also boosts energy efficiency and provides the security you're after. Finally, a door will only be as good as the person installing it, so be sure to find a reputable local installer - for Yorkshire, we'll recommend ourselves at Elmhurst Windows, but if you're elsewhere, be sure to check out what reviews have to say!

Good luck on the window-shopping journey… for doors… door-shopping?