When it comes to upgrading the front of your home, choosing the right door is just as important as choosing new windows. For many homeowners in Plymouth and across Devon and Cornwall, composite doors offer the perfect mix of style, strength and security. However, understanding the differences between various types of composite doors can help ensure you make the best decision for your property. From solid core construction to highly customisable styles, there’s more variety than many realise. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about composite door types and how to choose the right one for your home.
Overview of composite doors
A composite door is a modern, high-performance alternative to traditional front and back doors. It’s called “composite” because it’s made using multiple materials—each chosen for its unique benefit. Inside, you’ll typically find a dense core (usually timber), surrounded by layers of uPVC, reinforced steel, GRP (glass-reinforced plastic), and insulating materials.
The main aim behind this construction is to offer enhanced security and energy efficiency. These doors outperform single-material options like uPVC in almost every category. In fact, many composite doors can achieve U-values as low as 1.4 W/m²K, significantly improving home insulation and helping reduce heating bills.
For households in Plymouth looking for fuss-free home improvement solutions, composite door installation is an ideal way to invest in both aesthetics and performance.
Types of composite doors
Not all composite doors are created equal. Among the most trusted choices are solid core composite doors, like those supplied by Ace Double Glazing. These doors are built with a dense timber core—such as Albasia Falcata hardwood—offering unmatched strength and durability. This construction not only provides a more robust barrier against intruders but also contributes to better thermal performance.
In contrast, some composite door types rely on foam-filled cores. While they are lighter and somewhat cheaper, they may not provide the same level of security or insulation as solid core models.
It’s also worth comparing composite doors to uPVC and traditional wooden doors. Although timber has that classic look, it requires regular maintenance and is prone to warping or absorbing moisture. uPVC doors are low maintenance but often lack the solid, secure feel that homeowners prefer. Composite doors bring the best of all worlds—stylish design, modern performance, and long lifespan, making them a reliable option for durable entryways in any home.
Design options and styles
Composite doors are no longer limited to a handful of designs. Thanks to their layered construction, they can be customised far more extensively than other options. Whether you’re looking for bold colours that make a statement or muted finishes that complement period features, there’s a style to suit you.
Here at Ace Double Glazing, we offer over 250 colour combinations, along with bespoke glazing panels and hardware, allowing you to create a completely personalised door. Current trends include sleek, anthracite-grey finishes, heritage-inspired panels, and contemporary chrome handles—great choices for adding kerb appeal to homes across Plymouth.
With so many customisable door options available, it’s easy to match your new door to both your home’s appearance and your personal taste.
Energy efficiency and performance
One of the biggest reasons homeowners are switching to composite doors is for their impressive thermal efficiency. Solid core composite doors, for instance, excel in retaining heat and keeping out cold draughts. With rising energy costs across the UK, having doors that support better home insulation improvement is more important than ever.
According to the Energy Saving Trust, improving insulation—doors included—can potentially save hundreds of pounds a year on heating costs. The layered construction of a composite door helps to reduce heat loss, which is key to maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature year-round.
Combined with FENSA-compliant installation by a professional, experienced team like ours, your new composite door will help save money, improve comfort, and reduce your home’s carbon footprint.
Maintenance and longevity
One of the often-overlooked benefits of composite doors is just how easy they are to maintain. Unlike wooden doors that may need sanding, treating or repainting, composite doors only require a simple wipe-down with soapy water to stay looking their best. The GRP skin on the exterior is incredibly resistant to fading, warping, or weather damage.
As trusted quality door suppliers in Plymouth, we provide durable, weather-resistant doors that are designed to last. With minimal maintenance, many composite doors have a lifespan of over 30 years. Most also come with comprehensive warranties—for example, Ace Double Glazing offers a 10-year guarantee on installations, for your peace of mind.
Choosing the right composite door for your home
When deciding which of the many composite door types is best for your home, it’s important to consider security, style and budget. Do you want reinforced security features for extra safety? Are you looking for a door that complements a modern or traditional property? How much are you willing to invest in long-term performance?
Working with a trusted local door supplier in Plymouth like Ace Double Glazing means you gain access to both high-quality products and professional installation services. As a family-run business with many years’ experience, we always take the time to advise you on the best product to suit your property and requirements.
We’re proud to serve homeowners across Devon, Cornwall, and further afield—providing secure composite doors that are built to last.
Get in touch with us online or in person
Ready to upgrade your home’s entrance? Whether you’re just starting your project or already exploring options through our free Design Online tool, Ace Double Glazing is here to help. Our friendly team will walk you through every step—from design to installation—to ensure your new door fits perfectly and performs beautifully.
So, with all the benefits each style can offer, which composite door type will you choose for your home?
Get in touch with us today for a free, no-obligation quote or visit us in person and take the next step towards improving your home with a trusted, local name in composite door installation.
