Composite doors have been around for a few decades and have significantly impacted the door market. Made from a combination of materials, usually wood and plastic, a composite door is designed to offer the best of both worlds: the look of wood with the durability of plastic.
In this blog post, we will explore the history of composite doors and how they have become one of the most popular types of doors on the market.
History Of Composite Doors
Composite doors have been around for centuries, but they've only become popular recently. Here's a brief history of composite doors, from their early beginnings to their present-day popularity.
Doors were first used and invented in ancient Egypt, where they were made from a mixture of materials, including wood, reeds, and plaster. They were used to seal off tombs and keep out intruders.
The first composite doors in the United States were used in the early 1800s. They were made from various materials, including wood, metal, glass, and plaster.
These doors were much more durable than their predecessors and could be customised to fit any opening. GRP Composite doors reached their peak in popularity in the mid-20th century, and they were used extensively in commercial and industrial applications due to their durability and customisability.
What makes composite doors popular today?
Today, composite doors are becoming popular for commercial and residential applications. Thanks to advances in manufacturing and design, the doors designed today are secure, low maintenance, and modern, and they can lower your energy bills. They're perfect for high-traffic areas like entryways and garage doors.
Manufacturing Process
What are composite doors made out of? The average composite door is made from wood, plastic and metal materials, and the door is formed by combining these materials into a single panel.
The wood used in a composite door is typically hardwood, such as timber, providing the door with strength and durability.
The plastic used in the door is usually PVC or polyethene, which gives the door its weather-resistant properties. Metal reinforcements are added to the door for additional strength. Finally, a glass panel is added to the door for light and security.
The Benefits Of A Composite Door
- Thermally efficient
- Available in a range of styles and colours (including colours for the frame)
- High security
- Low maintenance compared to other doors
- Composite front doors are made from different materials
- Double glazing
- Glass reinforced
- Smart and modern-looking front door
- They look like timber doors/ timber (wood grain finish)
The Different Types Of Composite Doors
There are many types of composite doors, each with its own benefits. Here is a look at some of the most popular types of composite doors:
- Solid Core Composite doors: These doors are made with a solid core, making them highly sturdy and durable. They are also very thermally efficient, as they can help to keep your home well insulated.
- Hollow Core Composite doors: These are lighter in weight than solid core doors, making them easier to install. They are also less expensive, making them an excellent option for those on a budget. However, they are not as energy efficient as solid core doors.
- Fibreglass Composite doors: These doors are made with a fibreglass outer layer and a plastic inner layer. They are extremely energy efficient and very strong and durable. However, they can be more expensive than other types of composite doors.
- Aluminium Composite doors: These doors are made with an aluminium outer layer and a plastic inner layer. They offer good energy efficiency and durability but can be more expensive than other types of composite doors.
Visit our homepage to learn more about colour options (duck egg blue, white, red etc.), the frame, installers, cost, and painting it a new colour.
How To Choose The Right Composite Door For Your Home
There are a few things to consider when choosing the right composite door for your home. The first is the overall style of the door. A composite front door comes in many styles, from traditional to contemporary. Consider the style of your home and choose a door that will complement it.
Material
The next thing to consider is the material of the door. Composite doors are made from various materials, including wood, steel, fibreglass, and aluminium.
Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages. Consider the climate in your area and choose a material that will withstand the elements.
Cost
Composite doors can range in price from £1150 to £250, depending on the colours and the security installed. Choose a door that fits your budget and meets your needs. Also make sure your dog doesn't scratch your composite door when you're out.
FAQs
How can I tell if I have a composite door?
Firstly, composite doors are made from a mix of materials so that they will be heavier than traditional wooden doors. Secondly, composite doors usually have a smooth, glossy finish that can resemble plastic.
Finally, composite doors often have unique hardware that differs from traditional hardware. If you're unsure whether your door is a composite door, you can always check with the manufacturer or your local door dealer.
How do I know if my door is composite or uPVC?
First, look at the material the door is made of. Composite doors are usually made of a wood-plastic composite, while uPVC doors are made of a PVCu compound. You can also tell by looking at the construction of the door. A composite door is typically made with a solid timber core, while uPVC doors have a honeycombed core.
Finally, check the price tag. Composite doors tend to be more expensive than uPVC doors, so if you're unsure which type of door you have, it's likely composite.
Are composite doors safer than uPVC?
A composite door is stronger and more durable than a uPVC door, making it safer than a uPVC door.
Conclusion
Historically, composite doors have been around for centuries. However, it was not until the 1950s that they began to be mass-produced. Since then, they have become increasingly popular due to their durability and aesthetic appeal.
If you are considering purchasing a new door for your home, be sure to read more on our blog.
