If you’re refurbishing your home, you may have come across various types of doors and windows. The same may apply if you are setting up your home for the first time! When looking for affordable, secure and heat-protective doors, there are more than a few choices. Most people look for composite or uPVC doors for front and back.
But which is the best, uPVC or composite doors? Are there any major differences you should be looking for? Which system could work best for you and your property? In this guide, we’ll take a close look, so you have greater confidence while shopping for the ideal door solutions.
What are uPVC Doors?
Even if you haven’t been looking for windows and doors for long, it’s still likely you have heard of uPVC. It is a home installation standard for many reasons. uPVC tends to be a lot more affordable than other door options, and it can offer a lot of protection and warmth for the price.
uPVC stands for un-plasticised polyvinyl chloride. It is a sealing solution which manufacturers use with steel framing for insulated door designs. Often, people choose uPVC when they want a simple look for their doors without having to pay too much in the bargain.
uPVC doors come in a variety of looks and shapes. However, some people avoid choosing uPVC as they feel the look can be ‘cheap’. However, this really is unfounded! uPVC doors come in bespoke designs and builds. Therefore, your own uPVC door solution is really what you make of it. For homeowners striving to save money, a uPVC door is generally going to be the first port of call.
Another huge benefit to uPVC is that, despite their affordability, they are incredibly secure. When used with a leading home security system, few properties can feel safer.
What are Composite Doors?
Composite doors are a little more advanced than uPVC in their very design outwards. They are around a third thicker than uPVC door solutions and are made from a variety of materials.
That’s why they have the name ‘composites’. uPVC doors are purely plastic solutions, while a composite door could be made from metal, foam and timber.
All these elements work together to create a secure system and, for many people, a more refined finish. Many people choose composite doors because of the look. While uPVC can be very versatile, there is even more choice in composite design, because you are working with a wider variety of materials.
People also choose composite doors because they are strong and durable. Composite door systems are not only secure by design, they also withstand wind, rain and even prolonged malicious attack. This is because the manufacture is extremely precise. Composite door manufacture makes sure that homeowners get access to the best-quality door solutions, however, that means they will come at an elevated cost.
However, it’s time to consider some of the major differences between uPVC and composite doors. Are composite doors warmer than uPVC? Why do so many people choose one option over the other? Let’s start taking a closer look.
Composite vs uPVC Doors
When looking at either composite or uPVC doors, it is of course best to consider their strengths first, and their weaknesses later. Are composite doors stronger than uPVC doors? Which works better for front doors and other exterior door solutions?
With uPVC, you firstly need to look at the price. The affordability of plastic doors is what generally drives people to buy them. Composite doors can cost 40%-60% more, overall, and that means if you are working to a tight budget, a uPVC solution is probably going to be your quickest route towards affordable security.
However, there is a reason why composite doors cost extra. Many people argue that composite doors are more durable and are more versatile. uPVC front doors can arrive in a variety of colours and styles; however, it is hard to deny that composite solutions have a wider range. This is because with more materials, there is instantly more possibility!
Are Composite Doors Stronger Than uPVC Doors?
Composite doors are, on the whole, more resistant and perhaps more secure than their uPVC equivalents. There is less chance of composite doors breaking or shattering when put under blunt force. What’s more, uPVC doors are more likely to be damaged or broken due to the material used in their manufacture.
While both types of door carry plenty of strength benefits, uPVC doors lose out to composite doors when it comes to resisting force or attack. However, uPVC doors are naturally more affordable to fix and replace.
Composite doors are also very easy to maintain. They need very little maintenance across their lifetime, which means you can depend on them without having to get any tools out or having to make any specific changes.
Composite or uPVC Doors - Which is better?
When considering which is the best – uPVC or composite doors – you have to really think about value for money. Everyone’s needs are going to be slightly different! uPVC front doors present immediate value in that they are extremely affordable at the point of sale.
However, there is also the argument that composite doors pay for themselves in a very short space of time. They offer fantastic security, physical protection, and can keep heat inside at all times. There is also a lot more variety in design and in colour.
Therefore, the best choice for you between uPVC and composite doors is, of course, a choice which is going to save you the most money in the long run. Modern uPVC doors are fantastic for protecting your property, but many people may choose composite doors for the added versatility, the enhanced protection, and the more refined look.
Want to know more about the differences between uPVC and composite doors? Unsure which look is best for you? Our team will be happy to help you decide which door would best suit your needs. Call (08081 688 563) or complete our contact form and we will call you back. We are open Monday – Friday 9am – 5pm.
