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How to Choose the Right Front Door for Your Home

​"Your front door isn't just an entryway, it’s a reflection of your home’s personality and plays a key role in security and energy efficiency. Read on for the best tips on choosing the perfect door."

 

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Is it modern, traditional, or a cozy cottage look? Pick what suits your personality and home best.
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"Choose the best material for durability, maintenance, and longevity – options include foam core, wood core, or GRP."
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Make sure your door keeps you safe with the right locks and features.
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A good door should keep your home warm and your bills low. Look for high energy efficiency!

What to consider with your new door

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Firstly. Style

As yours needs to be nicer than next door!

So, let’s talk about style. Your front door should reflect the style and period of your house, while also showing off a bit of personality. Whether you're going sleek and modern or classic and cosy, we’ll help you find the perfect look to make a great first impression.

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Modern & Contempory - If you're into clean lines and something a bit more sleek, a modern door might be what you’re after. Think bold colours, big glass panels, and a minimalist feel. It’s perfect if you want your front door to make a statement and give off a fresh, contemporary look.

Rustic & Heritage - On the other hand, if you’re dreaming of a cottagey, rustic feel, then you’ll love a heritage cottage door. These doors are full of charm with their wooden finishes, often featuring little details like decorative glass or archways. It’s the kind of door that makes you want to hang a wreath on it all year round and curl up with a good book inside.

Traditional British - if you're more into something classic, a traditional door has that timeless appeal. Think rich wood tones and panelled designs. It’s elegant, dependable, and always in style, Think Edwardian houses in London, Think Downing street!

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Timber look - f you’re after something with charm, a timber door’s the way to go. It’s sturdy, natural, and always adds that warm, inviting feel to your home. Plus, no two timber doors are the same, so you get a unique look with beautiful wood grain that stands the test of time.

Door Styles

"PVCu, Composite & Aluminium"

Secondly. Door Security

Because a door isn't just for show!

Now, onto security. A beautiful door is great, but it needs to keep your home safe too. From basic locks to high-end multi-point systems, we’ll help you find a door that not only looks good but gives you peace of mind as well.

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Strong Locking Mechnaism's -When it comes to your front door, security is key. A strong lock is like a good cup of tea, it should be comforting and reliable! Basic locks are fine, but if you really want to keep the unwanted visitors at bay, look for multi-point locking systems. These clever mechanisms secure the door at multiple points, making it much harder for anyone to break in. Also, consider high-security cylinders. These are designed to resist picking, bumping, and snapping, so your door stays solid and secure. If you're after a little extra peace of mind, some doors even come with shoot bolts or slam-shut technology, which adds that extra layer of security. For those who want top-notch protection, look for doors that can be upgraded to PAS-24 standards. This means they’ve been tested by police regulations and proven to meet the highest security standards. You can rest easy knowing your door has passed some serious tests! At the end of the day, it’s not just about having a door that looks nice, it’s about making sure it keeps your home safe and sound. So, go for a lock that does more than just click, it should lock down your peace of mind too.

Durable Materials - When it comes to durability, you want a door that can handle whatever the weather throws at it while still looking great. That’s where timber-lined and solid core composite doors come in. A timber-lined door is like the best of both worlds: the warmth and charm of wood on the inside, with a tough outer layer to keep it strong. The wood gives it a natural look, while the composite materials on the outside make it more weather-resistant and low maintenance. These doors are sturdy, reliable, and perfect if you love that wooden feel but want something that’s easier to care for. On the other hand, a solid core composite door is built to last. With a high-density core (think of it as the door’s ‘muscle’), these doors offer great insulation, strength, and security. They’re resistant to warping, cracking, or swelling in damp weather, so they’re ideal for keeping your home safe and cosy all year round. Plus, the GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) coating on composite doors is designed to withstand everyday living—resisting scratches, dents, and fading, making it a fantastic choice for low-maintenance longevity. So, if you’re after a door that’ll stand the test of time and handle the elements, both timber-lined and solid core composite options are your best bet.

Security Glass - When it comes to glass in your front door, you want it to be strong and secure. The standard is toughened glass, which is a great option for most homes. It’s strong, durable, and if it does break, it shatters into small, harmless pieces, no sharp shards to worry about. But, if you’re looking for a little extra peace of mind, you can upgrade to 6.8 Laminated glazing. This is made up of two tough panes of glass, bonded together with a PVB (polyvinyl butyral) bonding agent. The result? A door that’s tough to break through. Even if the glass cracks, it won’t shatter into pieces—you’d be hard-pressed to get through it. And here’s the kicker: Laminated glazing meets the PAS-24 regulations, meaning it’s been tested to police standards. So, you can rest easy knowing your door not only looks great but also provides top-tier security.

Anti Drill Protection - When it comes to securing your front door, choosing the right lock is just as important as picking the perfect style. Let's break down the options in a way that's easy to understand. 🔐 Yale Locks – Trusted and Accessible Yale offers a range of locks, including the Platinum 3 Star cylinder, which is a popular choice for many homeowners. These locks are: 3 Star Rated: This means they meet high-security standards, offering protection against common break-in methods. Anti-Snap Protection: Designed to resist snapping attacks, a common method used by burglars. Widely Available: Easy to find in most hardware stores, making them a convenient option. However, some locksmiths suggest considering alternatives like Ultion for enhanced security features . 🔒 Ultion Locks – Premium Security Ultion locks are known for their robust security features: 3 Star Plus Rating: Exceeds the standard 3 Star rating, offering superior protection. £5,000 Guarantee: Ultion offers a £5,000 guarantee against break-ins when the lock is fitted correctly. Enhanced Anti-Pick Features: Designed with advanced mechanisms to resist picking and bumping. Police Preferred: Endorsed by the Police Secure by Design scheme, ensuring high standards of security. These locks are a great choice if you're looking for top-tier protection for your home. 🛡️ Anti-Pick Technology – Added Layer of Defense Some high-security locks incorporate anti-pick technology, making them more resistant to unauthorized entry: Mushroom Pins: These pins make it difficult for lock-picking tools to set them correctly. Sidebars: Additional components that prevent the lock from turning unless the correct key is used. Unique Key Designs: Some locks feature keys with unusual cuts or magnetic elements, adding complexity to unauthorized duplication. These features make it significantly harder for intruders to pick your lock, enhancing your home's security. 🖐️ Smart Locks – Convenience Meets Security For those interested in modern technology, smart locks offer keyless entry options: Fingerprint Recognition: Unlock your door with just a touch of your finger. Remote Access: Control your lock from anywhere using a smartphone app. Temporary Access Codes: Grant access to guests or service personnel without needing to provide a physical key. Smart locks combine convenience with advanced security features, making them a popular choice for tech-savvy homeowners. Choosing the right lock system depends on your specific needs and preferences. Whether you prioritize traditional reliability, advanced security features, or modern convenience, there's a lock out there that fits your requirements. Let me know if you need more information on any of these options or assistance in selecting the best lock for your home!

Thirdly. Material Type

What’s tough, stylish, and perfect for your home? 

Choosing the right material for your front door is like picking the right outfit for the weather—each one has its own perks. Let’s take a look at the options so you can decide what suits you best!

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Composite doors - Looking for something that combines strength, security, and style? Composite doors are a popular pick. They’re made from a mix of materials (like wood, plastic, and foam), offering the best of everything: Great Insulation: Keeps your home warm and cosy without breaking the bank on heating. Sturdy and Secure: Thanks to their solid core, these doors are built to last. Customizable: With a wide range of colours and styles, it’s easy to find a composite door that suits your home. They might cost a little more, but for all the benefits, they’re worth it if you want a door that does it all.

PVCu doors - If you’re after something reliable and budget-friendly, PVCu doors are a solid choice. These doors are made from durable plastic, making them: Low Maintenance: No need to repaint—just a quick wipe-down now and then. Weatherproof: Perfect for keeping out the rain, wind, and drafts. Affordable: Great if you’re sticking to a budget. They might not have the same elegance as other materials, but if you’re after a no-fuss, functional door, PVCu’s your friend.

Aluminium doors - If you’re going for a sleek, modern look, aluminium doors are the way to go. They’re slim, strong, and perfect for a minimalist aesthetic: Super Durable: Aluminium doesn’t rust or warp, so your door will last for ages. Slim Frames: The material allows for larger glass panels, so you get more natural light. Low Maintenance: Just like PVCu, aluminium doesn’t require much upkeep. These doors are a great choice if you’re looking for something that blends style with high performance.

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Timber doors - There’s nothing like the warm, natural look of a timber door. If you’re after something traditional with character, timber’s a timeless choice: Natural Beauty: The grain of the wood gives it a unique, rustic charm. Sturdy and Strong: A timber door is a solid investment and can last a lifetime with the right care. Insulating: Wood is a naturally good insulator, so it’ll help keep your home warm. While timber requires a bit more maintenance (think regular varnishing or staining), it’s the perfect option if you want a door that’s full of personality.

Lastly. Energy Performance

Keep the warm in & Draft out

When it comes to your front door, energy efficiency isn't just about keeping the cold out—it's about making your home more comfortable and saving on those heating bills. Let's break down the key factors that contribute to a door's energy performance.

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Insulation ratings - The U-value measures how well a door insulates, lower values mean better insulation. Current UK building regulations require replacement doors to achieve a U-value of 1.4 W/m²·K or less. ​ Solid Timber Doors: Typically have a U-value around 3.0 W/m²·K. Composite Doors: High-performance options can achieve U-values as low as 0.8 W/m²·K. PVCu Doors: Generally fall between 1.2 and 1.8 W/m²·K. Aluminium Doors: Without thermal breaks, they can have U-values upwards of 6.0 W/m²·K, but modern designs with thermal breaks can achieve U-values as low as 1.3 W/m²·K.

Glazing Efficiencies - The type of glazing in your door plays a significant role in its energy performance. Double Glazing: Typically has a U-value between 1.2 and 3.7 W/m²·K. Triple Glazing: Offers superior insulation with U-values below 1.0 W/m²·K. Low-E Coatings: These coatings reflect heat back into your home while allowing light to pass through, improving energy efficiency. Gas-Filled Units: Argon or krypton gas between panes enhances insulation.

Frame & Core - The core and frame of your door contribute to its overall insulation. Foam-Filled Cores: Polyurethane foam cores are common in composite doors, offering excellent thermal insulation. GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) Skins: These provide a durable, low-maintenance surface while enhancing insulation. Solid Timber Cores: Offer natural insulation properties but may require more maintenance. Aluminium Frames: Modern aluminium doors often include thermal breaks to improve insulation.

Weather Seals - Effective weather seals prevent drafts and water ingress, improving energy efficiency. Single Rebate Seals: A single seal contacts the door frame, suitable for milder climates. Double Rebate Seals: Two seals provide enhanced protection against wind and rain. Brush or Rubber Seals: These materials conform to gaps, offering better sealing performance. Automatic Drop Seals: Activate when the door is closed, providing a tight seal at the bottom

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