Understanding the differences in the products you offer is important when installing replacement windows and doors. For trade professionals, the choice between uPVC and composite doors is a common one, and being able to explain the benefits of each to a customer is vital. This guide explores the key differences, benefits, and applications of both uPVC and composite doors, equipping you with the knowledge to make informed recommendations for your customers. Contact Solent Glass and Glazing today to learn more.
Understanding uPVC Doors
Unplasticized Polyvinyl Chloride, or uPVC, has been a staple in the door and window industry for years, and for good reason. Its popularity comes from its cost-effectiveness, durability, and low maintenance. For trade professionals, this means a product that is easy to source, straightforward to install, and requires minimal maintenance, leading to high customer satisfaction.
Key Benefits of uPVC Doors:
- Cost-Effective: uPVC doors are typically more budget-friendly than composite alternatives, making them an attractive option for homeowners looking for a high-quality product without the slightly higher cost.
- Excellent Thermal Efficiency: Modern uPVC profiles are designed with multi-chambers and advanced sealing technology to trap heat and prevent cold air from entering.
- Low Maintenance: Unlike timber doors that require regular sanding, painting, or varnishing, uPVC doors only need a simple wipe-down with soapy water to look as good as new.
- Durability and Weather Resistance: The properties of uPVC make it resistant to rot, warping, and corrosion. It can withstand harsh weather conditions, from heavy rain and strong winds to intense sunlight, without deteriorating.
- Versatile Design: While traditionally associated with a standard white finish, modern uPVC doors are available in a wide range of colours and woodgrain foils. They can be customised with various glass options and hardware, allowing you to meet unique aesthetic requirements.
Understanding Composite Doors
Composite doors utilise multiple materials to create a product that offers superior strength, security, and aesthetic appeal. The core of a composite door is a solid inner frame, often made of a high-density foam or solid timber core, which is then encased in a Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP) skin. This layered construction is what gives them their premium performance characteristics.
Key Benefits of Composite Doors:
- High Security: The multi-layered construction, combined with multi-point locking systems, makes composite doors incredibly strong and secure. They are highly resistant to forced entry, providing homeowners with peace of mind.
- Superior Thermal Insulation: The high-density insulating core of a composite door offers exceptional thermal performance, often outperforming even the best uPVC doors. This means a reduction in heat loss and possibly lower energy bills for the customer.
- Aesthetic Appeal: With an authentic timber-like appearance and a wide range of styles and colours, composite doors provide a premium, high-end look that can significantly enhance a property’s curb appeal. They can mimic the look of classic timber without the high maintenance.
- Sound Insulation: The thickness and density of a composite door provide excellent soundproofing, reducing noise from the outside and creating a more peaceful interior environment.
- Exceptional Durability: The GRP skin is highly resistant to dents, scratches, and weathering, ensuring the door maintains its stunning appearance for years to come. Many composite doors come with a 10-year guarantee, highlighting their longevity.
Why Choose Solent?
At Solent, we understand that for a trade professional, it’s not just about the product – it’s about the service. We are a quality manufacturer and supplier of both high-quality uPVC and composite doors, offering a partnership that helps your business. Our commitment to excellence, reliability, and competitive pricing sets us apart.
- Manufacturing Excellence: With over 35 years of industry experience, we design and manufacture the majority of our doors on-site at our facility in Fareham. This gives us full control over quality and allows us to offer faster lead times and more competitive pricing.
- Dedicated Trade Support: When you partner with us, you gain access to expert technical and marketing advice.
- Fast Turnaround: Because we manufacture on-site, we offer a fast turnaround from order to delivery, with priority dispatch for our trade customers.
- Guaranteed Quality: We stand behind the quality of our products and installations with a comprehensive 10-year guarantee, providing both you and your customers with long-term peace of mind.
uPVC and Composite Door Prices
Choosing between uPVC doors and composite replacement doors is about balancing a customer’s budget with their priorities for security, aesthetics, and performance. While uPVC doors remain a practical and cost-effective choice for many applications, composite doors offer a superior, premium solution that can significantly enhance a property’s value. By understanding the distinct advantages of both, you can provide expert advice that builds trust and helps you win more business.
Contact the expert team at Solent Glass and Glazing today to discuss your next project, or visit our website to explore our full range of high-quality uPVC and composite doors. Get a quick quote or sign up to become a trade partner and benefit from exclusive discounts and dedicated support. Get a free, no-obligation quote for a door replacement today.