What to Expect After Installation
Written by Cornwall Composite DoorsReviewed by Cornwall Composite Doors installersLast updated July 20264 minute read
Short answer
After installation, your door is fully usable straight away, though sealants take around 24 hours to fully cure. You'll receive a Building Regulations compliance certificate and guarantee paperwork, and should carry out light maintenance such as lubricating hinges and checking seals periodically.
Installation day isn't quite the end of the story. There are a few things worth knowing in the days and months afterwards to make sure your new composite door settles in well and keeps performing as it should.
Immediately after installation
Your door will lock, open, and close normally as soon as the fitters leave. Avoid slamming it or jet-washing the frame for the first day or so while sealants and foam fully cure, to give the installation the best start.
Paperwork you should receive
You should be given a Building Regulations compliance certificate confirming the installation meets thermal and safety requirements, along with your written guarantee documentation. Keep these somewhere safe, as they're useful when selling the property.
Want a quick price?
Free survey, no salesman, no obligation.
Settling-in period
It's normal for a new door to need a minor tweak or two in the first few weeks, such as a small hinge adjustment as fixings bed in. A reputable installer will happily attend to this as part of the initial service, at no extra cost.
Ongoing maintenance
Composite doors need very little upkeep, but lubricating hinges and the lock mechanism a couple of times a year, and wiping down seals, keeps everything working smoothly for years. Avoid harsh chemical cleaners on the door slab itself.
Your guarantee
Our 10-year written guarantee covers both the door and the installation workmanship. If something isn't right within that period, whether it's a hardware fault or an installation issue, get in touch and it'll be addressed.
Frequently asked questions
Is it normal for a new door to feel stiff at first?
A very slight stiffness while seals bed in is common and usually settles within the first few weeks. If it doesn't improve or feels genuinely difficult to operate, contact your installer to have it checked.
When should I have my new door serviced?
Basic homeowner maintenance, like lubricating the lock and hinges, is worth doing roughly twice a year. Beyond that, a professional check isn't usually needed unless you notice a specific issue.
What should I do if I notice a draught weeks later?
Check first whether the door is latching fully and the seals are making even contact all the way round. If a draught persists, contact your installer, as this may be covered under your workmanship guarantee.
Do I need to register anything after installation?
No additional registration is needed on your part. Your CERTASS-registered installer handles Building Regulations self-certification and provides you with the compliance certificate directly.
Explore next
More installation advice
- What Happens During Composite Door Installation?From dust sheets to final checks, here's what a professional composite door fitting actually involves.
- Common Installation MistakesMost door problems trace back to how the frame was fitted, not the door itself.
- DIY vs Professional InstallationComposite doors are heavy, precise products — here's why fitting one yourself is rarely a good idea.
