Your front door serves as more than a mere entrance to your home; it acts as a remarkable focal point that establishes the ambiance for your entire property. As the initial sight that greets visitors, it leaves a memorable imprint on their minds. Therefore, it comes as no surprise that selecting the perfect front door is crucial in crafting an inviting and hospitable environment. However, with a huge range of choices available, initiating the decision-making process, particularly when considering the financial aspect, can pose a challenge. But fret not! This article aims to steer you through the various front door materials and their associated costs, empowering you to make an enlightened choice for your home without exceeding your budget.
How many types of door materials are there?
When it comes to selecting a new front door, there are several materials to consider, each with its own unique characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages. Here are some of the most popular options:
Composite doors
Composite doors: If you’re searching for a front door that combines strength with style, a composite door is worth considering. This modern marvel blends the durability of PVC, the warmth of wood, and the insulation properties of foam. Not only does it offer impressive strength and energy efficiency, but it also provides a wide range of styles and colours to suit any home that desires to stand out.
uPVC doors
For an aesthetically pleasing and low-maintenance option, uPVC is a great choice. While it may not be as sturdy as other materials, it offers cost-effective insulation without compromising on style. If you value affordability, easy maintenance, and good insulation, uPVC could be the perfect fit. However, investing a bit more in a composite door may not be far off in terms of cost.
Timber doors
The timeless elegance of a timber door never goes out of style. It exudes a classic charm that can enhance any home’s aesthetic. It’s important to note that timber doors require regular maintenance to ensure their durability over time, but the investment can be worthwhile. Keep in mind that timber doors typically come with a higher price tag compared to options like uPVC or composite doors. If you seek a truly unique door that has the potential to last a lifetime, a timber door might be the ideal choice.
Modern Aluminium doors
If you desire a door that combines style and efficiency, look no further than aluminium doors. With their sleek and contemporary appeal, they make a bold design statement while remaining functional. Their slim profile frames make them suitable for those who want to maximise natural light without compromising on temperature control. Aluminium doors are an excellent choice for larger openings where light is essential. If you’re after a door that offers both form, a variety of colour options, and functionality, aluminium doors might be the perfect fit for you.
What do I do next?
Selecting the ideal front door can be overwhelming due to the amount of options available. However, there’s no need to worry! Each material type presents its own distinct advantages, whether it be in terms of style, insulation, or cost-effectiveness. By understanding the differences between these materials before making a decision, you can discover a front door that not only meets your requirements but also aligns with your personal tastes. So, let’s delve into the details and find the perfect front door that suits you best!
Composite Doors
For homeowners seeking a combination of durability and style, composite doors are an exceptional choice. These doors are crafted using a blend of materials, including uPVC, timber, insulating foam, and GRP (glass reinforced plastic). The outcome is a door that resembles a traditional wooden one while benefiting from the advantages of modern materials. It’s important to note that different brands employ varying combinations of these materials; for instance, Solidor incorporates timber for enhanced strength, while DoorStop utilizes GRP for core strength.
One notable advantage of composite doors is their remarkable strength and durability. They exhibit high resistance to weathering, ensuring they remain free from warping or rotting over time, unlike timber doors. This attribute makes them especially suitable for coastal areas or regions with harsh weather conditions. However, if you reside in a coastal area, it is advisable to opt for marine grade hardware to enhance the door’s longevity.
Composite doors offer a wide array of styles and colors, allowing you to select one that seamlessly complements the exterior design of your home. Moreover, they require minimal maintenance in comparison to other door types, such as timber doors.
In terms of value for money, composite front doors are an excellent investment. Their low-maintenance nature and long-lasting durability make them cost-effective options. Prices for composite doors start at £554.
uPVC Doors
Since the 1980s, uPVC doors have been popular due to their durability and low maintenance requirements. The term uPVC stands for unplasticized polyvinyl chloride, which refers to a type of plastic that does not contain additional plasticizers. This characteristic makes uPVC more resistant to damage from weather conditions, UV rays, and other external factors compared to traditional PVC.
One notable advantage of uPVC doors is their affordability, making them a great choice for those on a tight budget. They offer functionality, but if energy efficiency is a priority, upgrading to a composite door would be a wise decision.
Furthermore, uPVC doors come in various styles and a limited range of colors, allowing you to select an option that suits your home’s aesthetic. You can choose from different finishes such as wood grain or smooth textures, depending on the desired look.
Maintenance-wise, uPVC doors require minimal upkeep as they do not need painting or staining like wood doors. Simply wiping them down with soap and water should keep them looking brand new for years to come. However, over time, the frames or panels may appear faded.
uPVC doors offer an affordable option with long-lasting benefits, including energy efficiency and low maintenance requirements. If you’re considering replacing your front door, a uPVC door is certainly worth considering!
Timber Doors
Timber doors embody a timeless choice for a new front door, bringing natural beauty and warmth to any home. One of the key advantages of timber doors is their versatility, as they can be painted or stained in a wide range of colors to complement any style.
In terms of durability, timber doors require regular maintenance, including sanding and resealing every few years, to prevent warping or rotting. However, with proper care, they can endure for decades.
Timber doors are available in various wood types, such as oak, cherry, and mahogany, each possessing distinct characteristics. Oak is renowned for its strength and durability, while mahogany exhibits a distinctive red-brown hue and fine grain pattern. It’s important to note that softwood, especially for modern timber doors like Accoya, should be avoided. The cost range varies depending on the type of wood chosen, with softwood doors starting at around £500 and hardwood doors like Accoya starting at around £2,500.
When considering cost, timber doors fall between uPVC and composite doors, depending on the chosen wood type. While they may not be the most inexpensive option upfront, their versatility makes them worth considering. However, it’s essential to keep in mind that maintaining their appearance over time requires ongoing investment in terms of time, money, and effort.
Modern Style Aluminium Doors
During the 1970s, aluminium windows and doors gained popularity for their energy efficiency, surpassing the performance of single-glazed timber windows. However, in the 1980s, a new product emerged, offering even better energy efficiency and posing a challenge to the aluminium industry. Today, modern aluminium doors and windows have undergone significant advancements and are renowned for their exceptional energy efficiency.
Aluminium composite doors, with their sleek and contemporary appearance, have become increasingly popular. They effortlessly complement various home styles, from traditional to minimalist. Unlike timber doors, aluminium doors require minimal maintenance, making them an excellent choice for those seeking a long-lasting solution without the hassle of upkeep.
One of the standout features of aluminium doors is their durability. They possess impressive strength, allowing them to withstand harsh weather conditions such as heavy rain or extreme heat. This means minimal maintenance and a one-time investment, as they can last for many years without needing replacement.
Another notable advantage of aluminium doors is their energy efficiency. The materials used in these doors have excellent insulating properties, ensuring your home stays warm during winter and cool during summer. Aluminium composite doors, in particular, are a true hybrid, featuring two thick aluminium slabs sandwiched with foam for a combination of strength and energy efficiency.
Furthermore, aluminium doors offer a range of styles and colors, allowing you to select an option that perfectly complements your home’s design aesthetic. You can choose from various finishes like wood grain or metallic effects, tailoring the door to your preference and project requirements.
Although aluminium doors may have a slightly higher upfront cost compared to other materials, the investment pays off in the long run due to their longevity and low-maintenance nature.
How much does a new front door cost?
When considering the cost of replacing your front door, it’s important to acknowledge that there isn’t a simple answer, as it can vary significantly depending on various factors. Budget is a primary consideration, but it’s essential to ensure that the door meets your specific needs, such as energy efficiency, by researching U-Values and making an informed decision. Remember, the cheapest option may not always be the best.
Another factor to consider is whether you desire additional features like glazing or decorative panels, as these can impact the overall price. Many reputable companies provide online tools, such as a designer, which can help you determine the necessary features and provide quick quotes without any pressure. You can click here to try out our designer tool.
It’s crucial to account for installation costs when budgeting for a new front door. While some homeowners may choose to install the door themselves to save money, hiring a professional installer ensures proper and safe installation.
Overall, front door prices can vary widely, ranging from several hundred pounds for a basic uPVC or soft timber door to thousands of pounds for an ornate composite or aluminium door with customised features and professional installation included.
Prices for Composite Doors
Composite doors have gained significant popularity among homeowners due to their remarkable durability and strength. They are widely regarded as one of the most favored options in the market, catering to various environmental and design requirements, all while offering a reasonable price tag.
The cost of a composite front door can vary based on several factors, including the door’s size, design and style, and any additional features or accessories. It’s worth noting that the more features added, the higher the price will be. On average, a standard composite front door can range from £554 to £1500.
It’s important to consider that although composite doors may appear more expensive initially, they provide excellent value in terms of longevity and energy efficiency. They require minimal maintenance over time and contribute to reducing heating bills by effectively sealing out drafts. A useful tip is to look for a door with a low u-value, indicating superior thermal insulation.
For those seeking an even more premium option, there are high-end composite doors available that offer advanced security features such as multi-point locking systems or fingerprint recognition technology. While these luxury models may cost upwards of £2500, they provide unparalleled peace of mind when it comes to home security.
While composite doors may have a higher upfront cost compared to alternatives like uPVC, their versatility and efficiency make them a worthwhile long-term investment.
Prices for uPVC Doors
For budget-conscious homeowners, uPVC doors are a popular choice. They not only offer relative energy efficiency and low maintenance but also come in a range of styles to suit various types of properties.
The cost of a uPVC door can vary depending on factors such as size, style, and design. On average, a standard uPVC front door can range from £500 to £1,000.
If you decide to include additional features like decorative glass panels or customised colours, the price will increase accordingly. It’s important to keep in mind that while uPVC doors may be more affordable initially compared to other materials, their lifespan may not be as long.
It is recommended to obtain quotes from multiple suppliers and compare prices before making a decision. Don’t forget to consider installation costs as well.
uPVC doors provide an affordable option that combines durability and security without compromising on style or functionality.
Prices for Timber Doors
Timber remains the go-to choice for those seeking a traditional front door. Its timeless appeal adds warmth and character to any home, ensuring it never goes out of style. However, the cost of purchasing a new timber front door can vary significantly depending on several factors.
The type of timber used is a crucial consideration. Hardwood doors tend to be pricier than softwood doors due to their enhanced durability and longevity. Popular hardwood options like oak, mahogany, and Accoya can contribute to a higher price.
Customization options such as size, shape, design, and finish also affect the cost. The more customized your door is, the higher its price will be. However, it’s important to note that timber doors generally have a higher u-value compared to composite, aluminium, and uPVC doors, impacting their energy efficiency.
On average, a standard-sized timber front door can range from around £800 for softwood to £2000+ for hardwoods, excluding installation costs. Prices may further increase based on additional features or customizations.
While timber doors may come with a higher price tag compared to materials like uPVC doors, they offer the advantage of being handmade and can significantly enhance your home’s curb appeal and value. However, it’s essential to consider the lifelong investment required to maintain their condition.
Prices for Aluminium Doors
Modern aluminium doors have regained popularity among homeowners due to their sleek and contemporary design, durability, and minimal maintenance needs. When it comes to the cost of aluminium doors, several factors can influence the price.
The style of the door plays a role in determining the cost. A simple and standard design will be more affordable compared to a custom-made or intricate design. Aluminium doors on the market typically range from around £700 to £1500 for a basic model, but can exceed £10,000. It’s important to note that many UK companies source their aluminium doors from Europe, resulting in lead times of up to 12-16 weeks. However, Signature Aluminium Composite Doors, made in the UK, offer a 10-day lead time, an unlimited range of colors, and prices starting from £1,200.
The choice between single or double glazing can also impact the cost of the aluminium door. Double glazing provides enhanced insulation but increases the overall price.
The quality and thickness of the glass used in the aluminium door can also affect its price. Toughened or laminated glass will be more expensive than standard glass but offer additional security benefits.
Installation costs should be considered when budgeting for aluminium doors. It’s crucial to select an experienced installer who can ensure proper fitting for maximum security and energy efficiency.
While aluminium doors may have a higher upfront cost compared to materials like uPVC or timber, they provide long-lasting value with their durability and low maintenance requirements.
How long will it take to get a new front door fitted?
The duration required to install a new front door can vary depending on several factors. These include the type and size of the door, the complexity of the installation process, and any additional features or hardware that need to be incorporated.
On average, the installation of a new front door typically takes between 2 to 4 hours. However, this timeframe may extend if unexpected issues arise during the installation or if any additional preparatory work is necessary before fitting the new door.
Before commencing the installation process, it is crucial to ensure that accurate measurements have been provided and that you are satisfied with the information you have provided to the sales team via the website’s designer tool, email, or over the phone. This ensures a proper fit for your new front door and reduces the risk of any damage during the installation process.
Once the measurements have been confirmed and necessary preparations have been made, the installer will carefully remove the old front door. They will then proceed to install any required hardware, such as locks or doorknobs, before securely fitting the new front door into place.
Although installing a new front door may require some time and effort, it is well worth it for the enhanced aesthetics and added home security benefits it provides.
Summary
We trust that this article has provided you with valuable insights into the various types of front doors and their associated costs. It is crucial to choose the right front door material to enhance both the aesthetics and security of your home.
In summary, composite doors are a favoured choice due to their exceptional durability and energy efficiency. uPVC doors offer affordability and low maintenance, although they may not match the durability of other materials. Timber doors provide a timeless and classic appearance but necessitate more upkeep and Aluminium doors boast a sleek and modern design, albeit with slightly higher initial expenses.
FAQs about new front doors
Q: What’s the average price of getting a new front door installed?
A: As mentioned previously, the price of installing a new front door can vary significantly, influenced by various factors such as the door type, materials utilised, door size, and the intricacy of the installation process. On average, the cost of a new front door installation, including the door itself, ranges from £554 to £2000.
Q: What’s the right amount of money to spend on a front door?
A: Determining the appropriate budget for a front door is contingent upon several factors, including your financial constraints, the architectural style of your home and the desired level of security and energy efficiency.
Q: Does the door frame need replacing too?
Whilst it’s usually recommended to replace your door frame when getting a new door fitted, it’s not always necessary. If your current door frame is fine, then you don’t really need to worry, however if your door frame is damaged or you can see that it isn’t aligned properly, getting a new one means a proper fit for your door and will improve its overall performance.
Q: What needs to be included in my new front door cost quote?
When you’re receiving new front door installation quotes, they should include:
- The actual price of the door
- Any hardware needed (for example, handles and locks)
- Labour costs
- Any additional services (such as if the door needs to be removed and disposed of)
- Any additional upgrades (for example if you’ve chosen enhanced security features)
Make sure you choose a door company that has an easy-to-use door designer and also shows costs upfront. Don’t forget that as you customise your door on the door designer, the more you add means the more you will pay.
To check out our fabulous door designer click here.
