Which Material is Best for Replacement Front Doors?
Which Material is Best for Replacement Front Doors?
While it’s true that traditional front doors can have a certain aesthetic charm, they pale in comparison to the security and energy efficiency of newer models. Similarly, if you prefer the look of traditional front doors, you can find a modern alternative that mimics this appearance and boasts all the benefits of a brand-new door. The cost of front doors can range anywhere from £500 to (significantly) more than £5000, and there are many factors that affect this; one such factor is the material. When looking for a more secure and energy-efficient front door, you can find yourself overwhelmed by the variety of materials. For this reason, we’ve put together the following handy guide to help you determine which material is best for replacement front doors.
uPVC Front Doors
uPVC doors are low-maintenance and secure, they promise effective noise reduction and aesthetic versatility, and they’re one of the most affordable options for replacement front doors. That said, they can discolour in the sun, and they’re not the most thermally efficient. As a result, when opting for uPVC, you may find yourself saving money upfront; however, it won’t be as effective at reducing your heating and cooling costs in the long run and you may find yourself needing to replace it sooner rather than later.
Composite Front Doors
Composite front doors are a popular option among homeowners when the time comes to replace their front doors. This is down to their superior security, great sound insulation, stylish and customisable appearance, and low-maintenance nature. Unfortunately, though, composite doors are prone to bending and warping, and their U-values are often misquoted. The U-value measures how much heat passes through a material, meaning a lower U-value equates to a more energy-efficient front door. Since a door with a lower U-value will cost more upfront, you need to be sure to verify the U-value to make sure you’re not overpaying.
Why Do Composite Doors Warp in the Sun?
Thermal expansion and prolonged UV exposure can lead to the bending and warping of composite doors. This is because composite doors are crafted from a combination of materials, including timber, foam, uPVC, and Glass-Reinforced Plastic (GRP). Since each of these materials reacts differently to heat, it can cause the outer layers to absorb heat and expand faster than the core, which can create internal stress. Meanwhile, UV rays can degrade surface materials and lead to uneven heating, in which one side of the door receives sunlight, and the other stays cool. This can result in the “banana” effect, where the door warps toward or away from the sun.
Timber Front Doors
The natural beauty, character, customisation, and craft are what sets timber doors apart from alternative materials. This is without mentioning their eco-friendly nature when they’re sourced sustainably, impressive strength and security, and superior thermal and acoustic insulation. These benefits lead to timber being one of the most expensive materials for front doors; however, it’s still prone to warping and bending in hot or warm environments. So, while a timber front door can look great, it’s not the most cost-effective or durable option for homeowners.
Steel and Aluminium Front Doors
Aluminium and steel front doors are some of the strongest and most thermally efficient options on the market. Unlike many other materials, steel and aluminium are fire-resistant, meaning they can significantly boost your home’s safety. This is without mentioning the low-maintenance nature and modern appearance of metal front doors. The seemingly endless benefits of steel and aluminium front doors lead homeowners to believe that they’re far too expensive; however, they promise a premium quality for an affordable price. It’s safe to say that steel and aluminium doors provide you with the best for your buck.
How Much Does a Steel Front Door Cost?
While the material is a significant affecting factor when it comes to the cost of a front door, this isn’t all that needs to be considered. The door type, size, security features, installation complexity, supplier, and installer will all be considered when calculating the cost of a steel or aluminium front door. To get a better idea of what a metal front door may cost you, you should do your research online, contact suppliers and installers for quotes, and visit showrooms.
Upgrade Your Home with Modern Front Doors
Your front door is the first thing that someone sees when they visit your home, so it’s essential to make a good introduction. What’s more, your front door plays a vital role in securing, insulating, and ventilating your home, which is why it’s so important to make the right choice.
With high-quality steel or aluminium front doors that are installed by experienced professionals, you can rest assured that your home will remain secure and comfortable for years to come.
