Front and Entrance Doors: Composite or uPVC
Two routes to a new front door, and how to decide which one suits your home.
Start with how the door will be used
A front door does more work than any other part of the house. It is opened dozens of times a day, it takes the weather full on, and it is the first thing a visitor or a would-be intruder notices. Before looking at colours, it helps to think about exposure, how much glass you want, whether the door opens straight onto a path, and how long you plan to stay.
We supply two kinds of entrance door. This page helps you choose between them; each has its own product page with the full range.
Composite entrance doors
A composite door has a solid, insulated core behind a tough outer skin, which gives it weight, rigidity and a convincing painted-timber look without the upkeep. It is the choice for people who want the most solid feel when the door closes and a wide choice of styles, glass designs and colours.
uPVC entrance doors
A uPVC door is built from reinforced uPVC profile with an infill panel. It is lighter, it matches uPVC windows closely in colour and sightline, and it is usually the more economical route. It suits homes where the door should sit quietly alongside new windows, and side or rear entrances that see less traffic.
Security and glazing either way
Whichever route you choose, the locking is multi-point and the hardware is specified at quotation. Our guides on PAS 24 and multi-point locks explain what the standards mean if you want the detail. Glass can be clear, obscure or decorative, with sidelights and toplights designed around the opening.
If you are not sure, the free survey is the easiest way to decide: we measure the opening, look at the frame and threshold, and show you how each type would suit it.
Fitting and payment
Doors are fitted by FENSA and CERTASS registered installers and you receive the certificate on completion. Finance is available through our FCA-authorised arrangement (FCA 1055332).
Common questions
- Which lasts longer, composite or uPVC?
- Both are low-maintenance. Composite gives a heavier, more solid door; uPVC is lighter and matches uPVC windows. We help you weigh this at survey.
- Do you supply aluminium front doors?
- No. Aluminium is used only for our bi-fold and sliding doors.