PVCu vs Composite Doors

What are the pros of a uPVC door?

With an expected lifetime of up to twenty years, uPVC doors are very durable. You won’t need to spend a lot of time on maintenance, and you’ll avoid the problems of warping and rot which come with a timber door. They’re energy-efficient, cutting down on draughts and bringing good insulation. The insulation will also help to keep noise out. From a security point of view, you’ll have a multi-point lock, and the steel core means the door is hard to break. For many of us, cost will be the deciding factor: a uPVC door will be more affordable than a timber or composite equivalent.

And the cons?

The plastic nature of a uPVC door might not be the best choice for certain properties. If you’re looking for an aesthetic option to suit a period home or country cottage, then the composite door may work more sympathetically. On a practical basis, white uPVC doors may discolour, especially if the wrong chemicals are used in cleaning. Although colours are available, there aren’t as many choices as with composite doors, and the finish may fade over time.

What are the pros of a composite door?

First of all, the appearance. GRP can be moulded to mimic wood grain, so you have the visual sense and feel of timber. With a wide range of colour options, the choice of many variations of glass panels, and a beautifully authentic finish, you’re investing in a door which will bring the perfect finishing touch to your home.

Then, there’s none of the maintenance of a timber door: no peeling paint or rotten wood to deal with, ever. All you need to do is a quick wipe down every now and then to keep the door in pristine condition.

The construction of a composite door means it is strong and durable, ensuring both excellent security and a high thermal efficiency. Combining materials means that the finished product is more resilient than any single material on its own would be. The expected life of the door is around 35 years, and it won’t warp, peel or fade. The finish is also highly resistant to scuffs and knocks, so you won’t have to worry about the wear and tear of everyday life.

And the cons?

A composite door will cost more than other options. If it’s within your budget and you love the feel and appearance of the finished product, then this will be worth the outlay. It might be worth considering how long you plan to be in the property. If it’s your forever home, then pushing for the more expensive door will be an investment for your future. If you see yourself moving on in a short time, though, you should balance up the added value a composite door will bring to the house against the initial outlay.