Composite Doors Basingstoke

Well let’s start with the word ‘composite’, the definition of which is ‘made up of several parts or elements’. In truth most manufactured items are made of different elements, however the GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) skin of a composite door can give a wood graining effect and vibrant colours, this not being an option on uPVC doors.  Other common materials used in the construction of a composite door include a uPVC frame with reinforcing’s, either a compressed foam or engineered timber filled core of the door and of course hardware like locks, letter boxes, hinges and handles.

Composite doors have been around for decades, they were initially very expensive. Today composite doors come with foam filled cores, engineered timber cores and aluminium faced doors. They do all vary in cost, a typical foam filled core with glass would average around £1100-£1200, fitted and including VAT. Other variables that will add a reasonable amount to the cost of the doors include decorative glass units, sometimes even triple glazed and high end stainless steel bar handles and letter boxes.

They are very durable, excellent quality and have a life span of many years. This type of door are also extremely low maintenance and easy to look after. Maintenance includes giving it a wipe over with hot soapy water and oiling the hinges and other moving parts occasionally, this will keep your composite door in tip-top condition. Compared to older uPVC doors, they look the part and can make the entrance to your home the envy of all your neighbours.

uPVC doors are made with uPVC, whereas composite doors are made from a number of different materials. Composite doors come in a wider range of standard colours, although most uPVC doors can be sprayed any colour you like.

One of the biggest differences is a composite door has two main components, a frame and a door leaf (sash). A uPVC door has the same two components however the decorative panel is the additional component, this make the door look bulkier and in some people’s eyes cheaper looking. A quality composite door is usually made from superior materials which makes them stronger, more secure, durable and weather resistant compared to a uPVC door.

While this is a question that is often asked, the answer is not that easy to give in one sentence. Composite doors can vary in price by vast amounts, a foam filled core with no glass can be installed and fitted for less than £1000, including VAT.

A high end aluminium door could easily be three times the price, as much as a bespoke hardwood door. Affordability is the key point as most doors will come with a reasonable manufacturer’s warranty. The old adage is generally ‘you get what you pay for’.

Our composite doors are highly versatile for installation as front or back doors. Establishing KJM in 1983, we have covered the Basingstoke and Hampshire areas since the business began. As our business grows, we expand our installation locations to cover surrounding areas such as Berkshire, Dorset, Surrey, Wiltshire, Winchester, Eastleigh and Salisbury.