Entrance doors have been on a journey of development through the ages to arrive at our modern style of Upvc and composite doors. Different materials have been used through history (some more effectively than others) and all in the name of aesthetics, security and energy efficiency. From Egyptian King Solomon’s temple doors, made of olive wood, known for its strength and durability, to ancient Indian doors often crafted from stone, believed to be sturdier and better at retaining heat. The Romans and Greeks used materials like bronze, stone, and wood, experimenting with single block, double, sliding, and folding doors.
Needless to say, door designs have come a long way since the olive wood doors of Egypt, and these days we have many options for materials and techniques we use to create the perfect entrance door. But, with the high standards of security and energy efficiency required for our modern-day lifestyles, how do you know which door design is best for you?
When choosing exterior doors for your home, understanding the differences between composite and uPVC doors is key. Composite doors, crafted from a blend of materials including wood, PVC, insulating foam, and glass-reinforced plastic (GRP), offer exceptional durability and weather resistance. They stand out for their superior security features, often incorporating high-level security locks. Maintenance-wise, they require minimal upkeep and are available in a plethora of styles and colours, making them a versatile choice for any home. However, this quality does come at a higher cost.
In contrast, uPVC doors, made primarily from unplasticized Polyvinyl Chloride, are a more budget-friendly option. While they offer moderate durability and security, with multi-point locking systems as standard, they tend to be less robust than composite doors. Their low maintenance and resistance to rot and corrosion make them a practical choice. Although being available in various styles and colours, uPVC doors do have a distinct plasticky feel. Ultimately, the choice between composite and uPVC doors depends on your priorities in terms of security, durability, aesthetics and budget, making it crucial to weigh these factors according to your specific needs.
View our range of composite doors
Composite doors are known for their robust security, thanks to their multi-layered and reinforced construction, making them stronger and more resistant to physical attacks. In contrast, uPVC doors, while more secure than some other door styles, do not match the high-security standards of composite doors. Their average thickness is around 28mm, compared to the 48mm thickness of many composite doors, making them less effective as a physical barrier against intruders.
The UK government has set standards for doors to resist physical attack by burglars, as outlined in the Approved Document Q of the Building Regulations 2010. These standards emphasise the need for doors to be both robust and fitted with appropriate hardware. For more information on new-build home security requirements, visit the government website.
Composite doors are generally more energy-efficient than uPVC doors. This is attributed to the combination of materials used in their construction, which enhances security and improves insulation. Most composite doors have an A or A+ energy rating, indicating high efficiency in preventing heat loss and thereby reducing heating bills.
The UK government provides guidelines and recommendations for improving home energy efficiency. This includes considerations for door types and their insulation properties, which can significantly impact a property’s heating and cooling costs. The type of door, as well as the insulation in the floor, walls and loft space, plays a vital role together in the overall energy efficiency of a home. For more information on improving your home’s energy efficiency, visit the government website.
Composite doors typically cost more than uPVC doors, with the price difference often ranging around 50% to 100% higher for composite options. This increased cost reflects the superior materials and enhanced features they offer, including better security and energy efficiency.
At Thordale & Son, we understand the importance of balancing quality with affordability. That’s why we offer a diverse range of composite doors suitable for various budgets, ensuring that quality and security are accessible to more homeowners. To make the decision process easier and more transparent, we also provide a free quotation service for our composite doors. This allows our customers to explore our extensive range and find a door that not only meets their security and aesthetic needs but also fits their budget.
We supply the best quality composite doors across Doncaster, Sheffield, Barnsley, Rotherham & the rest of Yorkshire. For a free quote, get in touch today!
Thordale Limited is Registered as a Limited Company in England and Wales Under Company Number: 06858419
Registered Company Address: 2a Backthorn Hill Lane, Longwood, Huddersfield, HD3 4UW.
Doncaster web design services by Fellowship Studios.