Question 1

How long do composite doors last?

Accepted Answer

A properly-installed composite door will comfortably last 30 years or more with almost no maintenance beyond a wipe-down.

Question 2

Do composite doors fade?

Accepted Answer

Modern GRP skins carry UV inhibitors and a 10-year colour-fastness guarantee. Bright colours in south-facing positions may soften slightly over a decade; dark colours are unaffected.

Question 3

Can composite doors warp?

Accepted Answer

No — the timber or engineered-timber core and rigid GRP skins keep a composite door dimensionally stable across UK temperature and humidity ranges.

Question 4

Are composite doors energy efficient?

Accepted Answer

Yes. A typical composite door has a U-value of around 1.0 W/m²K, compared to 1.4 for uPVC and 3.0 for a traditional single-panel timber door.

Question 5

Do composite doors increase house value?

Accepted Answer

Kerb appeal is one of the biggest single factors in estate agent valuations. Estate agents routinely add £3,000 to £5,000 to asking prices after a new composite front door.

Question 6

Can I change the glass on a composite door?

Accepted Answer

Yes — the glass unit is bonded into the slab but can be replaced by an installer if it breaks. Choose your glass carefully at spec stage as an aesthetic change later is more expensive.

Question 7

How long does composite door installation take?

Accepted Answer

A single-door replacement is typically a same-day job — 3 to 5 hours from arrival to a fully cleaned-up finish.

Question 8

What guarantees are available on composite doors?

Accepted Answer

Every door we install carries a written 10-year guarantee covering the door slab, hardware and workmanship.

Question 9

Are composite doors secure?

Accepted Answer

Yes — every door we install is PAS24:2022-tested with a 3-star anti-snap cylinder and multi-point locking as standard.

Question 10

Do you install composite doors across all of Cornwall?

Accepted Answer

Yes — from Bude to Penzance, and everywhere in between. See our areas we cover page for a full list.

Question 11

Can I get finance on a composite door?

Accepted Answer

Yes — 0% interest-free credit is available on installations over £1,500, subject to status.

Question 12

Do composite doors need painting?

Accepted Answer

No — they never need painting. Wipe clean with warm soapy water twice a year and that's it.

Question 13

What sizes do composite doors come in?

Accepted Answer

Standard UK sizes come off the shelf; bespoke sizes are available from Solidor and Endurance on 4-6 week lead times.

Question 14

Can composite doors be used at the coast?

Accepted Answer

Yes — with marine-grade stainless furniture and enhanced weather sealing, they are the best specification for coastal properties.

Question 15

Do I need planning permission for a new front door?

Accepted Answer

In most cases, no — replacement doors fall under permitted development. Conservation areas and listed buildings need consent.

Question 16

What's the difference between composite and uPVC?

Accepted Answer

Composite is heavier, more secure, thermally better and holds colour longer. uPVC is lighter and cheaper.

Question 17

Do composite doors come with a threshold?

Accepted Answer

Yes — a low-profile aluminium threshold is standard, and part-M compliant thresholds are available for level access.

Question 18

Can I get a smart lock fitted?

Accepted Answer

Yes — Yale Conexis, Ultion Nuki and Danalock retrofits are all supported.

Question 19

How do I clean a composite door?

Accepted Answer

Warm soapy water and a soft cloth twice a year. Avoid abrasive pads and solvent cleaners.

Question 20

Do you remove the old door?

Accepted Answer

Yes — removal, disposal and cleanup are included in every quote.

Question 21

Are composite doors soundproof?

Accepted Answer

They significantly reduce noise transmission compared to a single-glazed timber door — the dense core and multi-point sealing help a lot.

Question 22

What colours are available?

Accepted Answer

Over 20 standard colours plus bespoke colour-matching on Solidor and Endurance. See our colours page.

Question 23

How much does a composite door cost in Cornwall?

Accepted Answer

Typically £1,395 to £2,795 fully installed. See our pricing guide for detail.

Question 24

Can I match the front door to a side or back door?

Accepted Answer

Yes — we quote in matched sets whenever possible.

Question 25

What if my aperture is unusual?

Accepted Answer

Our free survey identifies any structural work needed. Most jobs are like-for-like; occasionally we brick up or widen at extra cost.

Composite door questions, answered.

Ready for a beautiful new front door?