What is the Difference Between uPVC and Composite Doors?
When selecting a new door for your home, the material your new door is made from is an important consideration. Two popular options in today's market are uPVC doors and composite doors. Both offer distinct benefits, but understanding their differences can help you make an informed decision that best suits your home's needs. Continue reading as we explore these differences in detail, focusing on aspects such as construction, security, aesthetics, cost, and longevity.
What Are uPVC Doors?
uPVC doors are made primarily from un-plasticized polyvinyl chloride, a durable and low-maintenance material, making them a cost-effective choice for homeowners.
What Are Composite Doors?
Composite doors, on the other hand, are constructed from a combination of materials including wood, foam, GRP (glass reinforced plastic), and uPVC, offering enhanced security, insulation, and a broader range of aesthetic options compared to uPVC doors.
Here at Keswick Superglaze, we work with quality composite door supplier, Rockdoor, which unlike standard composite doors, are constructed using high-quality PVC for the door sash, inner frame, and outer frame, coupled with a solid insulating core. Our Rockdoors are designed to function as a cohesive unit and overcome common issues associated with traditional timber doors, such as swelling and warping.
Construction and Materials
Our composite doors, specifically Rockdoors, are crafted not with timber but with a high-density insulating core that is 60% stronger than the average composite door. To further enhance security, an optional Steel Security Mesh can be incorporated, making the door impervious to cutting—an increasingly common burglary method. This layered construction provides substantial protection against potential intruders.
uPVC doors are constructed from a single material—unplasticized polyvinyl chloride, which is not only cost-effective but also provides decent durability and insulation.
Security Features
uPVC doors often feature multi-point locking systems, which provide a basic level of security suitable for many homes.
However, the security of our composite doors is unmatched, thanks to their multi-layered structure and advanced locking mechanisms. Rockdoors feature a 4-hook lock system and, depending on the design, can also include a mesh reinforcement for additional safety. These features make the doors exceptionally secure, offering peace of mind to homeowners.
Cost and Value
uPVC doors are generally more affordable than composite doors, making them an attractive option for homeowners working within a tight budget.
While composite doors can be more expensive —with prices starting at around £1,000—this investment is justified by their superior quality and durability. It's important to note that cheaper alternatives may not provide the same level of performance, especially in harsh weather conditions like those often experienced in Cumbria. As Cumbria's leading Rockdoor supplier, we ensure that our doors are equipped to handle these conditions with a specially designed harsh weather pack.
Lifespan and Longevity
Investing in a high-quality composite door like Rockdoor means expecting a lifespan of 30-40 years due to their durable construction and the quality of materials used. This makes composite doors a worthwhile long-term investment, as they require minimal replacement and maintenance over the decades.
The lifespan of uPVC doors, typically around 20 to 25 years, is commendable but generally shorter than that of composite doors. This is due to the singular nature of the materials used in uPVC doors, which, while durable, do not provide the same level of resistance to weathering and physical stress as the mixed materials of composite doors.
Our Advice
uPVC doors are often chosen for their cost-effectiveness. However, when compared to composite doors, they generally offer less in terms of security and insulation. Composite doors also come in a wider variety of styles and colors, making them a more aesthetically appealing option for homeowners looking to enhance their property's curb appeal.
At Keswick Superglaze, we are a leading installer of uPVC and Rockdoor composite doors, providing quality doors that offer the best value for money in Cumbria. Request a free, no obligation quote to discuss how we can upgrade your home’s doors.
