We often get asked by clients about the difference between composite and UPVC. Composite doors are a highly popular option for front doors, providing a combination of an elegant style and aesthetic that adds to the overall value of your home. Being exceptionally secure with state-of-the-art security and locking systems, they are a popular choice. UPVC doors are also a popular choice for those looking for an upgrade on a budget, but are structurally weaker and less secure than composite doors.
We are one of the leading installers of composite doors in Bristol, as well as UPVC doors. We will work with you to design and install a door that suits your home and your budget. Get in touch with us to arrange for your free consultation and quote.
Feature | Composite Doors | uPVC Doors |
Primary Use | Front Entrance. Designed to create a strong first impression and maximise home security. They add a significant amount of value to the property and make it easier to market the property when it’s time to sell (first impressions matter!) | Secondary Exits. Frequently used for back doors, side doors, or utility rooms, where cost is the priority. UPVC doors are available for front doors to provide a more budget-friendly option, and they are secure. You just won’t have the strength and security levels that a composite door provides. |
Construction | A “composite” of materials: solid timber/foam core, steel frame, and a GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) skin. This creates an extremely strong front door that is close to the strength of aluminium at the top of the scale. The door can also be recycled after the end of its lifespan. | Made entirely from Unplasticised Polyvinyl Chloride (a rigid plastic) with a lightweight styrofoam core. The door can also be recycled after the end of its lifespan. |
Aesthetics | Authentic wood-grain texture. Almost indistinguishable from real timber. A wide range of finishes and colouring can be chosen to emulate the style and appearance of wood without the drawbacks. | Noticeably “plastic” sheen. Modern versions are sleek but lack the depth of wood grain. There are a range of colours and finishes available for your door to match other materials without the drawbacks. |
Security | Maximum. The solid core and GRP skin are nearly impossible to kick through. The Police regularly recommend Composite Doors as the best option for front doors due to their security and ability to deter intruders. | Good. Secure when fitted with multi-point locks, but the panel is more vulnerable to brute force. Anti-snap locks improve security, but they are more susceptible to break-ins if they are used as a front door. |
Thermal Efficiency | Superior. Retains heat roughly 15-20% better than uPVC due to its dense core. This is ideally suited for use as a front door. | Effective. Provides good insulation, but can develop draughts over time if the frame warps. |
Lifespan | 30–35+ years. Highly resistant to fading, scratching, and warping. Resists damage from everyday use. Requires some maintenance, such as yearly oiling, to maintain the door. They are very easy to clean. | 20–25 years. Can become brittle or yellow/fade after decades of UV exposure. They are very low-maintenance and very easy to clean. |
Price Point | High. A long-term investment that adds measurable value to the property. | Budget-Friendly. Often 40–60% cheaper than composite equivalents. UPVC doors are a great choice when looking for upgrades on a budget. |
Budget vs Security & Increasing the Value of Your Property
One of the main choices that will dictate whether composite or UPVC is best for your front door is your budget. If you have a more restricted budget, then you may want to consider a UPVC door, as they do offer structural strength and security. You will be making a compromise, though, as UPVC is not as structurally secure as composite, and the security systems are less advanced. Composite doors typically last 10 years or longer and they add more value to your property overall, so this is something to consider when creating your budget.