Composite vs UPVC door – what is the difference?
Composite doors are generally considered the better option if you’re looking for superior security, a longer lifespan (up to 30 years), and a more premium timber-like appearance. They outperform UPVC doors in terms of thickness, durability, and thermal efficiency, though they come at a higher cost—often around 60% more.
- Superior strength & security: Made from multiple materials including a timber core and GRP outer layer, offering higher security and resistance to weather.
- Enhanced energy efficiency: Thicker and denser (typically 44mm), with better insulation and weather seals.
- Premium appearance & longevity: Imitates real timber with a more refined look and lasts up to 30 years with proper care.
UPVC doors, while more budget-friendly, still offer solid security, energy efficiency, and low maintenance, making them a smart choice for secondary entrances or when cost is a priority. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your budget, desired aesthetics, and where the door will be used.
- Affordable pricing: Typically up to 60% cheaper than composite doors, offering great value for money.
- Low maintenance & reliable security: Easy to clean, with strong frames and multi-point locks for solid protection.
- Simple design flexibility: Comes in a variety of colors and styles, ideal for functional areas like back or side entrances.
When comparing a composite vs UPVC door, the right choice depends on your priorities. Composite doors offer superior performance and aesthetics at a higher cost, making them ideal for front entrances. UPVC doors, on the other hand, are more budget-friendly and practical for secondary doors without sacrificing security or efficiency.
Thankfully, when you buy any composite door or UPVC door from Bon Accord Glass, you’re assured of a gorgeous door that will look right at home and keep it sufficiently secure and warm.
But, how do you choose between composite doors and UPVC doors?
We supply both solutions as we believe them to be equally good, however, you might take a liking to one over the other once you know what they both offer a little better:
Composite Doors
A composite door frame is much thicker and heavier than most door frames and it’s because several materials are amalgamated together to create the profile, including PVC, wood, insulating foam and GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic).
For this reason, composite doors are incredibly robust and tough, making them one of the most secure doors on the market. They also come with an advanced multi-point locking mechanism for secure purposes.
They’re a fantastic insulator too and they feature a natural woodgrain effect, just like the one found on a traditional timber door.
Price-wise, composite doors are more expensive than UPVC doors, but don’t let that put you off and instead just focus on the many plus points of them.
UPVC Doors
You can identify a UPVC door from a composite door by the sheen of the door and its trimmer profile.
Whilst it might not be as dense as a composite, it will still manage to keep thieves at bay as it similarly incorporates a hi-tech locking system.
It will require a smaller outlay to purchase a UPVC door, but for strength and thermal efficiency alone, you get an awful lot for not a lot of money.
Another big-selling point and just like composite doors, UPVC doors barely need any maintenance. You don’t have to repaint them, and will only need to take a wet cloth to the frame and hardware to wipe them completely clean.
Come and settle the composite door vs UPVC door debate in your own mind, once and for all, by seeing a fantastic showcasing of both door varieties in our Aberdeen showroom.