What each door is made of
A composite door is made from a mix of materials. A GRP (glass reinforced plastic) skin sits over a strong core, inside a reinforced frame. That is why it feels heavy and solid when you close it.
A uPVC door is made from unplasticised polyvinyl chloride, the same material as most modern window frames. It is rigid, light and will not rot, rust or peel.
| Composite door | uPVC door | |
|---|---|---|
| Build | GRP skin over a solid, insulated core | Rigid uPVC panels and frame |
| Feel | Heavy and solid | Lighter |
| Upkeep | No painting. Wipe clean and oil moving parts | No painting. Wipe clean and oil moving parts |
| Looks | Wide choice of colours and panel styles | Good choice, often a smaller range |
| Security | Depends on the lock and door set. Check for TS 007 3-star | Depends on the lock and door set. Check for TS 007 3-star |
| Often used for | Front doors | Back and side doors |
Security: the lock matters most
A strong door is only as secure as its lock. One method burglars use is "lock snapping", where the euro cylinder is broken to open the door.
Whichever door you choose, check the cylinder. The Door & Hardware Federation advises a TS 007 3-star rated cylinder, or a 1-star cylinder used with a 2-star handle. Look for the Kitemark and the stars on the lock. Our guide to anti-snap locks explains how to check yours.
Warmth and draughts
Both types can keep a hallway warm. How well depends on the insulation in the door, the seals and how carefully it is fitted.
A door that drops on its hinges or does not meet its seals will leak heat, whatever it is made of. Ask about energy ratings and how the door seals to the frame.
Looks and finishes
Composite doors usually come in a wider choice of colours and panel styles. Many can have one colour outside and another inside.
uPVC doors are no longer just white. You can choose colours, glass and hardware, though the range is often smaller.
Which should you choose?
For a front door, where looks and a solid feel matter most, many people pick composite. For a back or side door that gets heavy daily use, uPVC is a sensible choice.
A good surveyor will look at each opening and tell you honestly which suits it.
Sources
General facts on this page come from these official sources. Rules can change, so check the latest version before you rely on them.
- Door & Hardware Federation (dhf): TS 007, the door security standard (opens in a new tab)
- Secured by Design (police crime prevention initiative): Secure residential doors (opens in a new tab)
- Planning Portal (government planning and building regulations service): Doors and windows, building regulations (opens in a new tab)