What a difference a door can make.

A guide to PVC-U, composite and aluminium doors

Your front door makes a bold statement – after all, it is the focal point for anyone coming to your home. For new visitors a first impression. For old friends, a familiar welcome to your world. It has to keep the great British weather at bay too, so whether it faces a battering from stormy weather or is basking in the summer sun (and probably both in some locations) it plays a big part in ensuring that you feel safe and snug in your home. 

For peace of mind, a modern, properly fitted and well-maintained door shows that security is important to the homeowner – giving intruders another reason to think again.

And don’t forget “kerb appeal”. If, or when, the time comes to sell your home, the state of your front door is all important. You may sell years after you fit that door, but choosing wisely and maintaining it regularly will keep your kerb appeal riding high.

There’s plenty of choice out there, so which one is right for you?

Here’s a brief guide to your options:

u-PVC

A brilliant, cost-effective solution for any external door, uPVC is easy to maintain, energy-efficient and is available in a wide range of colours and finishes. Replacing an old timber door? No problem, you can even get wood grain finishes to recreate that classic look. Glass panels can be small or large depending on how much light you need, and both looks and functionality can be customised with locking systems, handles and other door furniture.

Composite

There’s a lot of choice here. With a little extra initial outlay, a composite door can offer decades of performance with minimal maintenance. Impressive strength, durability and energy efficiency are derived from multiple core sections sandwiched between other material layers, most commonly contained within with a glass reinforced fibre (GRP) skin. As with uPVC, a final flourish of design and functionality can be achieved through glass and hardware selection.

Aluminium

Amazing performance, although the look and feel of an aluminium door may not always suit older, period properties. For that sleek modern look though and even a little “industrial/ functional” feel there is little to better it. Extremely rigid and hard wearing you can be confident that with expert fitting, routine cleaning and regular maintenance an aluminium door will give decade upon decade of service.

Every home is different so if you need help just contact a Snug Adviser for guidance on making the perfect choice.