Composite vs. uPVC Doors – What’s The Difference? This is a common question we are asked at G&L Windows. In this blog we will explain the differences between the two types of door. We will also dig down into the pros, and cons, of both types to help you make the right decision.
What is a composite door?
Composite doors are manufactured with a combination of steel, timber and plastic polymers. The mix of materials produce a strong and durable door with good insulation properties.
The structure of a composite door usually involves a steel frame with solid timber insulation or foam insulation. This lies in-between two sheets or resin or plastic polymers that have been created with a timber grain effect.
The door is painted with a weatherproof and extremely durable paint that comes in many different colours.
What are the pros of a composite door?
Composite doors are extremely popular and for good reasons. The main pros for having a composite door are:
- Maintenance free
- Look fresh and new for many years
- Energy efficient with good insulation
- Highly customisable
- Considered to be very secure
The main con of composite doors is that they cost more than a uPVC door. This is mostly because of the additional materials and longer, more complex, manufacturing period.
What is a uPVC door?
uPVC is a type of strong and durable plastic that is used in a lot of manufacturing. Many household windows and conservatories are made from this sturdy material. Metal, usually steel or aluminium is added to reinforce the door.
uPVC doors are manufactured by moulding molten uPVC into a shape. Once cooled, the shapes are melded together to produce the full door.
uPVC can come in different colours and textures to suit a variety of tastes though there are limits in comparison to a composite door.
What are the pros of a uPVC door?
uPVC doors are durable and affordable so it’s understandable that they are very popular. Some pros for having a uPVC door are as follows:
- Strong and durable
- Have effective insulating qualities
- They can be customised
- Require little maintenance
- Affordable and cost-effective
The main cons for uPVC doors is that they aren’t quite as energy efficient or customisable as a composite door. The difference is not massive but depending on what you are looking for, this could be a big factor in your decision.
uPVC doors are usually cheaper than their composite counterparts however. If budget is your biggest constraint, uPVC will be the option for you.
Both composite and uPVC doors are versatile, energy efficient, long-lasting and do not require regular maintenance. Both options are very popular across the UK and can last for well over a decade.
Give our team at G&L Windows a call to learn more about both composite and uPVC doors. We can guide you through your choices according to your preferences and budget.
