31 Oct What’s the difference between composite, uPVC and timber doors?

A door in South Wales has a tougher job than people give it credit for. It has to resist the weather and keep the house secure and efficient. This is the reason most homeowners narrow their decision down to composite, uPVC or timber.

Which door lasts longest in South Wales’ weather?

Composite doors in South Wales can easily handle local weather conditions because the outer skin is reinforced and sealed. They don’t peel or swell even after weeks of rain. uPVC also resists weather effectively, though it tends to show age more visibly. 

Timber performs the least consistently in this climate. It needs sanding, paint, varnish and regular attention to stay sealed. Timber can definitely survive here, but only when the owner is genuinely committed to maintaining it.

Which type of door keeps your home most secure?

Most break-ins happen at the door, not the window. So, in practical terms, a front door is a security product first and a design feature second.

Composite doors have multi-point locks and sturdy reinforced frames as standard. The material itself is harder to force open. 

uPVC uses similar locking systems, but the leaf itself is not as resistant to sustained force. Timber can be strong when it is new and dry, but wood naturally softens with age.

Which option wastes the least heat?

Composite doors have the lowest U-values of the three. Less heat escapes and draughts are minimised.

uPVC does fine but not at the same level as composite.

Timber loses heat fastest. Wood conducts more heat and even slight movement can break the seal.

Which door is easiest to live with over the years?

A front door is something you have to live with for years. And that is where the maintenance burden becomes a very important factor.

Composite doors are effectively maintenance-free. All you need to do is clean them when they look dirty.

uPVC is similarly low-maintenance, though it can show cosmetic ageing over time. For example, you might see some chalking or surface scuffs.

Timber demands a lot of maintenance. If you don’t sand and repaint on time, the wood can absorb moisture and rot from the inside.

Which door looks the best?

Composite doors can convincingly replicate timber grain, weight and proportion. This includes Georgian and Victorian styles suitable for both older and modern homes.

uPVC looks simpler, more functional. It suits buyers who care more about practicality and price.

Timber still delivers the most authentic appearance on older homes. But choosing that look now is a conscious trade between appearance and maintenance.

Which options do AQW recommend in South Wales homes?

Affordable Quality Windows installs composite and uPVC entrance doors across South Wales. Composite doors from our Standard and Palladio ranges include reinforced skins, multi-point locking and strong thermal performance. We recommend uPVC to buyers looking for a simpler and more economical solution.

Are you looking for high-quality composite doors in South Wales?

Affordable Quality Windows (AQW) supplies and installs composite doors across South Wales. We can help you customise the door colour, glass, hardware and security options. Contact us today to request a free quote or book a survey.