What is a Composite Door? A Complete Guide to the Modern Front Door

Our key findings:

1. Composite doors from our composite door range are made from multiple materials, offering superior strength and durability.
2. They provide excellent thermal efficiency, helping to reduce energy bills
3. Composite doors offer added security features compared to traditional door types
4. They require minimal maintenance and are resistant to weathering and warping
5. including options like cottage style composite doors.

Choosing the right front door for your property is a big decision. With so many materials, styles, and colours to choose from in the modern market, it’s important to understand your options before taking the plunge.

At Unique Glazing, we have seen a significant rise in the popularity of composite doors over the past few years, and for good reason.

But what exactly is a composite door, and why should you consider one for your home? Let’s take a deep dive.

What is a composite door?

A composite door, as the name suggests, is made from a combination of weather resistant materials. Unlike traditional wooden doors or uPVC doors that are primarily made from a single material, composite doors leverage the strengths of multiple materials to create an exceptional product made to combat the modern world.

Typically, a composite door consists of either a foam or thick solid timber core, encased in a durable Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP) skin. This unique composite door construction results in a door that’s incredibly strong, energy-efficient, weather-resistant, and aesthetically pleasing, making it an ideal choice among double glazed external doors. At Unique Glazing, we offer both options, with our 44mm thick composite doors promising impressive thermal efficiency.

A green composite door with beautiful decorative glazing.

Benefits of choosing a composite door

When it comes to choosing a new door, composite doors offer a range of benefits that make them a standout choice for many homeowners. Get in touch with our friendly team to explore some of the key advantages:

Security

At Unique Glazing, we understand that the security of your home is paramount. Composite doors excel in this area, offering superior protection against intruders. The combination of materials used in their construction makes them incredibly strong and resistant to forced entry. Many of our composite doors come with multi-point locking systems and are Secured by Design certified, making them the perfect way to ensure your peace of mind.

Thermal efficiency

In today’s world, energy efficiency is more important than ever. Composite doors offer excellent thermal insulation, helping to keep your home warm in winter and cool in summer. The foam core and GRP skin work together to create a barrier against heat transfer, potentially lowering your energy bills and providing you with complete peace of mind. Our A++ energy rated composite doors are designed to minimise both heat loss and your carbon footprint, making them a smart choice for environmentally conscious homeowners.

Aesthetics

One of the great things about composite doors is their versatility in terms of design. They can be manufactured to mimic the look of traditional wooden doors while allowing natural light to flood your space, but without the associated maintenance issues. At Unique Glazing, we offer a wide range of styles, colours, and finishes, allowing you to choose a door that perfectly complements your home’s architecture and your personal taste.

Noise reduction

The thick, multi-layered construction of composite doors, including steel doors, also makes them excellent at reducing outside noise. If you live on a busy street or in a noisy area, a composite door can help create a more peaceful environment inside your home.

Low maintenance

Unlike wooden doors that require regular painting or varnishing, composite doors are incredibly low maintenance. Within our range of doors, the durable GRP outer skin is resistant to scratching, denting, and fading, meaning your door will look great for years to come with minimal upkeep.

Weather resistance

The unique endurance composite door construction makes these doors highly resistant to harsh weather conditions. They won’t warp, crack, or bow as wooden doors can, and they’re not prone to fading or discolouration like some uPVC doors.

Longevity

With their durable construction and weather-resistant properties, composite doors typically have a longer lifespan and a life expectancy than traditional door types. This makes them a cost-effective choice in the long run, despite their higher initial cost compared to some other door types.

A white composite door, perfectly colour-matched to the windows.

Comparing composite doors to uPVC doors

When considering new front doors, homeowners often find themselves weighing the benefits of composite doors against those of uPVC doors. Composite doors are a popular choice due to their exceptional durability and energy efficiency. Made from a combination of materials, including a solid timber or foam core and a robust GRP skin, composite doors provide superior security features that far exceed those typically found in uPVC doors. While uPVC doors are known for being cost-effective, they often lack the thermal insulation and long-lasting durability that composite doors offer. Ultimately, the choice between composite and uPVC doors will depend on your specific needs, but many homeowners find that the benefits of composite doors make them the superior option.

Choosing the right composite door for you

When selecting a composite door, there are several factors to consider to ensure you get the ideal composite door for your home:

Core type

While most composite doors have a timber core, some use a polyurethane foam core instead. Timber cores offer excellent structural integrity, while foam cores can provide superior insulation. At Unique Glazing, we offer both options, including Golden Oak, allowing you to choose based on your specific needs.

Colour and style

One of the great advantages of composite doors is the wide range of colours and styles available, including stable doors. From traditional wood-effect finishes to bold, contemporary colours, you can choose a door that perfectly matches or contrasts with your home’s exterior. We offer everything from classic white and black to more unique options like Chartwell Green or Rosewood.

Hardware and accessories

The hardware you choose for your exterior doors can significantly impact both the functionality and appearance of your door. We offer a range of high-quality door furniture, including handles, letterboxes, and knockers, in various finishes to complement your chosen door style.

Glazing options

Many composite doors incorporate glazed panels, which can add style and allow light into your hallway. We offer a variety of glazing designs, from simple frosted glass to more decorative glass options. All our glazing is double or triple-glazed for increased thermal efficiency and security.

Energy efficiency rating

Look for doors with high energy efficiency ratings. Our A++ rated doors offer superior thermal performance, helping to keep your home comfortable and your energy bills low.

Security features

Ensure your chosen door comes with robust security features. All our composite doors, including our composite back doors, are fitted with high-security multi-point locking systems, and many are Secured by Design certified for additional peace of mind.

A close up image of a red GRP composite door with decorative glazing and a knocker chosen by the client.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a composite door and how is it built?

A composite door uses a core made from materials such as solid timber or high-density foam, wrapped in a robust GRP (glass-reinforced plastic) outer skin. This layered build makes it significantly stronger and more weather-resistant than a conventional uPVC or timber door.

Why should I choose a composite front door for my home?

Because composite front doors offer several benefits: much better insulation (helping reduce your energy bills), enhanced security thanks to the multi-material construction and multi-point locks, low maintenance since the outer skin resists warping and fading, and a wide range of styles and colours to suit your house.

How good are composite doors for thermal efficiency?

Very good. The combination of a well-insulated core and durable outer skin creates an effective barrier against heat loss (or gain). Many composite doors are rated A++ for energy performance, making them a popular choice and strong choice if you want to reduce heating costs and improve comfort.

Are composite doors low maintenance compared to wooden or uPVC doors and different materials?

Yes. Because the outer layer of a composite door resists warping, cracking, and discolouration typically associated with timber. And unlike some uPVC doors, the outer finish remains more stable and doesn’t require frequent repainting or special treatments.

What should I look for when choosing a composite door?

A good composite door should offer: (a) a strong core type (timber or foam) suited to your priorities, (b) a high energy-efficiency rating, (c) strong security features such as multi-point locks and certification, (d) a style, colour and hardware set that suits your property, and (e) reputable installation and warranty terms.

Popular composite door styles and ranges

When it comes to selecting a composite door, the variety of styles available is one of the most appealing features. Popular choices include traditional designs that mimic the aesthetics of wooden doors, as well as modern styles that incorporate sleek lines and vibrant colors. Among the standout options, the Endurance Doors composite door range has gained significant recognition for its robust construction and stylish finishes. Homeowners can also explore the Solidor Composite Doors, which offer a wide variety of designs to suit any property. With customization options, including color finishes and glazing styles, you can create a composite door that not only meets your functional needs but also enhances your home’s curb appeal.

Composite door installation & measuring guide

Installing a front composite door requires careful planning and accurate measurements to ensure a perfect fit. Start by measuring the existing door frame, noting the height, width, and depth. It’s crucial to check for any unevenness in the frame, as this can impact the installation process. Once you have your measurements, select a composite door that fits these specifications, taking into consideration the style and features you desire. Most front composite doors come pre-hung in their outer frames, which simplifies the installation process. However, if you’re unsure of the process, consulting a professional installer can help ensure that your new door is fitted correctly, maximizing its performance and longevity.

Cost considerations for composite doors

When investing in a new front door, cost is an important factor to consider. Composite doors are typically regarded as the best choice for homeowners, as they range in price depending on the materials used, the complexity of the design, and additional features such as glazing and security enhancements. While the initial cost of a composite door may be higher than that of a traditional uPVC door, the long-term benefits, including energy savings and durability, often justify the investment. In today’s market, you can expect to find quality composite doors starting from around £572.40, making them a competitive option for homeowners looking to enhance their property’s security and aesthetic appeal.

Ordering composite doors online or by phone

With the rise of online shopping, ordering composite doors has never been easier. Many suppliers, including Unique Glazing, offer user-friendly websites that allow you to explore a range of styles and customize your door to fit your needs. Whether you prefer to order online with free delivery or speak with a friendly team member, both options are available to ensure you receive the best customer service possible. If you decide to order by phone, the knowledgeable staff can guide you through the selection process and address any questions you may have, ensuring you feel confident in your purchase. With efficient service and competitive pricing, ordering your composite door has never been more convenient.

Who Are Unique Glazing?

At Unique Glazing, we’re proud to be one of the leading manufacturers and installers of high-quality uPVC front doors, windows, and glazed extensions in the South East. With over two decades of experience, we’ve built a reputation for excellence in both our products and our service.

We offer a comprehensive range of composite doors, available in a wide variety of styles, colours, and configurations to suit any home. With over 32 colour choices, whether you’re looking for a traditional timber-effect door or a modern, brightly coloured statement piece, we have options to suit every taste and budget.

In addition to composite doors, we also offer a full range of uPVC and aluminium stainless steel windows, conservatories, orangeries, and other home improvement products. We manufacture many of our products in-house, giving us complete control over quality and allowing us to offer competitive prices and shorter lead times.

Our service area covers much of the South East, including London, Slough, Berkshire, Oxfordshire, and Surrey. As a trusted composite door supplier, we’re committed to providing top-quality products and exceptional customer service to homeowners throughout these areas.

We’re proud to have a whole host of accreditations to our name, including being FENSA-registered installers.

If you’re considering a new composite door in duck egg blue for your home, why not get in touch with us? Our team of experts would be happy to discuss your requirements, answer any questions you might have, and provide a no-obligation quote. You can reach us on 0800 193 2425 or email us at sales@uniqueglazing.co.uk.

A composite door from Unique Glazing is more than just a door – it’s an investment in your home’s security, energy efficiency, and kerb appeal. With our expertise and wide range of options, we’re confident we can help you find the perfect door to take your home to another level.