The average cost of a composite door in the UK generally ranges between £800 and £1,500. This price includes both the door itself and installation. The final cost depends on factors like the door’s style, colour, glazing options, and additional security features. Customised designs or premium options may push the price higher.

Choosing between uPVC and composite doors depends on what you value most in a door. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide:

1. Material and Durability
   Composite doors are made from a mix of materials, typically including wood, uPVC, and glass-reinforced plastic, which makes them strong and long-lasting. uPVC doors are made entirely from plastic, so while they’re weather-resistant and low-maintenance, they’re not as sturdy as composite doors.
2. Security
   Composite doors are generally more secure because of their multi-layered construction, which makes them harder to break into. Both types usually come with multi-point locking systems, but composite doors offer an extra layer of strength.
3. Insulation
   Composite doors have better insulation due to their dense core, helping to keep your home warmer and reduce energy bills. uPVC doors offer decent insulation but may not perform as well as composite doors, especially in very cold weather.
4. Aesthetics
   Composite doors often look more like traditional wood doors and come in a wide range of colours and finishes, including wood grain effects. uPVC doors are usually plainer in appearance, although they come in various colours too.
5. Cost
   uPVC doors are generally cheaper, which is great if you’re on a budget. Composite doors tend to be more expensive but offer added durability, security, and insulation, which may be worth the investment over time.

Composite doors are designed to be colourfast, meaning they don’t lose their colour easily. The outer layer, usually made of glass-reinforced plastic, is highly durable and resistant to fading from sunlight or harsh weather. Unlike traditional painted wood, composite doors retain their colour over time without frequent maintenance. 

Regular cleaning with mild soap and water helps maintain their appearance, keeping them looking vibrant for years.

Composite doors are designed to be extremely strong and secure, making it very difficult to kick them in. They’re built with a solid core of materials like wood, uPVC, and glass-reinforced plastic, which gives them high resistance to force. Composite doors come with multi-point locking systems that lock the door in multiple places, not just at the handle. 

Compared to traditional wood or uPVC doors, composite doors are much harder to break through, so they provide a high level of security for your home. However, no door is completely immune to extreme force, but composite doors are one of the most secure options available.

Yes, a composite door can help make your house warmer. Composite doors have a solid, insulated core designed to prevent heat from escaping and to block cold air from entering. This insulation keeps warmth inside, especially during colder months, helping to maintain a consistent temperature and potentially lowering your heating bills. 

Because composite doors seal tightly and are resistant to draughts, they offer better thermal efficiency than traditional wooden or standard uPVC doors. If keeping your home warm is a priority, a composite door is a good investment for energy efficiency.

Yes, composite doors are energy-efficient. They’re built with an insulated core that helps keep heat inside your home, reducing the amount of energy you need for heating. This insulation not only keeps your home warmer in winter but also blocks out draughts, making composite doors a smart choice for energy savings. By maintaining a steady indoor temperature, they can help lower your energy bills over time.

Look for certified installers, ideally FENSA or CERTASS registered, ensuring adherence to UK building regulations.

 Door installers typically handle measurement, fitting, repairs, and may offer advice on customisation and material choices.

Installation times vary by door type, but most standard doors take between 2-4 hours to install.

In the UK, replacing existing doors with new ones of similar appearance typically doesn’t require planning permission. This includes standard front or back doors.

Planning Portal

However, certain situations may necessitate planning permission:

• Listed Buildings: If your property is listed, you’ll need listed building consent for any significant changes, including door replacements.
• Conservation Areas: Homes in designated areas like conservation zones may have additional restrictions. It’s advisable to check with your local planning authority before making changes.
• New Openings: Creating a new doorway where none existed, especially on the front or side of your house, might require planning permission.
• Bay Windows: Installing a new bay window is often considered an extension and usually requires planning permission.

Always consult your local planning authority to confirm whether your specific project needs permission. Additionally, ensure compliance with building regulations, which focus on safety and energy efficiency standards.