Composite vs uPVC Doors: What's the Difference?

When it comes to choosing the right door for your home, there are several options available in the market. Two popular types of doors among homeowners are composite doors and uPVC doors. Both types have their own unique features and benefits, but understanding the difference between composite and uPVC doors is crucial to make an informed decision. In this blog post, we will explore the characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages of each type, including the number of different materials used in composite doors and the manufacturing process, to help you choose the best option for your home and to understand the number of benefits each type offers.

What are Composite Doors?

Composite doors are known for their durability and aesthetic appeal. They are constructed using a combination of materials, such as timber, glass-reinforced plastic (GRP), and insulating foam. This composite construction, with a sturdy steel frame, makes them extremely strong and resistant to weathering, warping, and fading. The outer layer of a quality composite door is usually made of GRP, which can be designed to resemble various finishes, including wood grain, while the combination of materials also gives the door unique properties such as being a secure door.

Advantages of Composite Doors

1. Security: Composite doors offer excellent security due to their robust construction. They are equipped with multi-point locking systems and strong materials, making them highly resistant to break-ins.

2. Insulation: The insulating foam core in composite doors provides superior thermal insulation. This helps to keep your home warm in winter and cool in summer, reducing energy consumption and lowering utility bills.

3. Durability: Composite doors are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions and heavy usage. They do not warp, crack, or fade like some other door materials, making them a long-lasting investment.

4. Aesthetics: With a wide range of colors, finishes, and styles available, composite doors can enhance the curb appeal of any home. They can be customized to match your desired look, including replicating the appearance of traditional wooden doors.

Disadvantages of Composite Doors

1. Cost: Composite doors tend to be more expensive than uPVC doors. However, considering their longevity and added benefits, the cost of a composite door can be seen as a worthwhile investment.

2. Weight: Due to their construction and use of heavy materials, composite doors are typically heavier than uPVC doors. This may require additional support during installation.

What are uPVC Doors?

uPVC doors, also known as unplasticized polyvinyl chloride doors, are made primarily of a rigid plastic material. They have gained popularity in recent years due to their affordability, low maintenance requirements, and versatility.

Advantages of uPVC Doors

1. Affordability: uPVC doors are generally more affordable compared to composite doors. They offer a cost-effective solution without compromising on quality.

2. Low Maintenance: uPVC doors are easy to clean and require minimal maintenance. They do not require painting or varnishing like wooden doors and can be easily wiped clean with a damp cloth.

3. Weather Resistance: uPVC is a highly durable material that is resistant to rotting, warping, and fading. uPVC doors can withstand various weather conditions without deteriorating, making them a reliable option.

4. Energy Efficiency: uPVC doors have good insulation properties, which helps in maintaining a comfortable temperature inside your home. They can contribute to reducing heat loss and lowering energy bills.

Disadvantages of uPVC Doors

1. Limited Aesthetics: While uPVC doors are available in a range of colors and finishes, they may not offer the same aesthetic appeal as composite doors. They might not have the same authentic look and feel as timber doors.

2. Less Security Features: Although uPVC doors can be fitted with security features, they are generally considered less secure compared to composite doors. They might not provide the same level of protection against forced entry.

What’s the price difference between UPVC and composite doors?

UPVC doors are cheaper than composite ones, but as you can see in the table below, they’re not as cheap as you might think.

The cheapest composite door is around £500 while the average price of a UPVC door is around £700.

If your home has been built to modern design specifications and you're looking for an aesthetically-pleasing door, then a composite one will be more expensive than a UPVC one in terms of initial outlay. If your home doesn't have to meet any specific building regulations and you want something stylish that won't cost too much, then consider going for a UPVC option instead. Both styles offer excellent value for money, especially in terms of energy savings, and both will make your modern home less risk from being burgled.

Security features comparison

The two doors both offer excellent levels of security, with composite doors offering better resistance to being damaged by extreme weather and the elements.

They’re also more resistant to damage caused by burglars.

This means that they last longer, which in turn means you won’t have to replace them as often.

Composite doors are also much more resistant than UPVC when it comes to being damaged or scratched during installation – so they look great, but don't take away from the security of your home!

Thickness Comparison

Composite doors are most often thicker than uPVC doors.

This added thickness provides better insulation and security for your home. UPVC doors typically measure around 28mm in thickness, while composite doors are generally in the range of 44mm to 70mm, with a unique 48mm solid timber core. The additional heft of composite doors, compared to UPVC door types, not only enhances their energy efficiency but also makes them more robust and durable. This increased thickness can be a significant factor to consider when choosing the right door for your home, as it contributes to better heat retention and overall protection.

Maintenance comparison

Both composite and UPVC doors require minimal maintenance. However, composite doors may need a bit more attention compared to UPVC. Composite doors may require occasional re-sealing and re-painting to maintain their appearance and protect them from the elements. On the other hand, UPVC doors are virtually maintenance-free, as they require little maintenance and do not require painting or sealing. Simply cleaning them with soap and water is usually sufficient to keep them looking good.

How long do each last?

Composite doors generally have a longer lifespan compared to UPVC doors. The robust construction and materials used in composite doors make them more durable, allowing them to last for many years without needing to be replaced. On average, composite doors can last anywhere from 25 to 30 years, while UPVC doors typically have a life span of around 20 to 25 years due to their ability to withstand extreme weather conditions. However, when it comes to door security, composite doors are seen as superior as they are much less prone to damage and have multi-point locking systems. It's important to note that the life span of both types of doors can vary depending on factors such as usage, maintenance, exposure to harsh conditions, and the range of styles and colors available for composite doors.

Styling, Colours & Design Comparison

Composite doors offer a wider range of styling options compared to UPVC doors. With composite doors, you can choose from a variety of designs, colours, and finishes to match your home's aesthetic. On the other hand, UPVC doors usually come in a more limited range of colours and designs, making it important to carefully consider your options when choosing from our door range. However, they still offer a clean and contemporary look that can complement many different architectural styles. Additionally, composite doors are available in a variety of colours and designs, including the option to add decorative glass panels, stable doors, providing even more options for customization and aesthetic appeal.

How do they compare with thermal efficiency?

Both composite and UPVC doors offer good levels of thermal efficiency, with composite doors being slightly better due to their construction with an insulated steel frame. Composite doors are known for their excellent insulation properties, thanks to the combination of materials used in their construction. This helps to keep the heat inside your home and reduce energy loss, making them a popular choice for energy efficiency in terms of energy efficiency, with most composite doors having an A or A+ energy rating.

UPVC doors also provide good thermal efficiency, as they are made from a single material with good insulation properties. While they may not have the same level of insulation as composite doors, UPVC doors still offer effective protection against drafts and heat loss, making them an important factor in keeping your home comfortable and energy-efficient.

Choosing the Right Door for Your Home

Ultimately, the choice between composite doors and uPVC doors depends on your individual preferences, budget, and specific requirements. If security, durability, and a high-end appearance are your priorities, composite doors are an excellent choice. On the other hand, if cost-effectiveness, low maintenance, and weather resistance are more important to you, uPVC doors could be the ideal option.

Remember to consider factors such as aesthetics, security, insulation, and budget when making your decision. You may also want to consult with door specialists and request quotes from reputable suppliers to get a better understanding of the available options and costs.

In conclusion, both composite doors and uPVC doors offer unique advantages and disadvantages. By understanding the key differences between the two, you can make an informed decision and choose the door that best suits your needs and preferences.