Composite Doors: A Guide to Looking After Your Door

Composite doors are an increasingly popular choice for homeowners, and for good reason. They offer a winning combination of durability, security, energy efficiency, and aesthetic appeal. It is essential to know how to keep and maintain your composite door looking and functioning at its best to ensure you maximise its lifespan. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about maintaining your composite door.

 

Introduction to Composite Doors

Composite doors are constructed from a combination of materials, typically including a foam filled core, uPVC, and a protective GRP (glass-reinforced plastic) skin. This blend of materials results in a robust and weather-resistant door, making it ideal for use as a front or back door. The GRP skin, in particular, provides a durable outer layer that can withstand harsh weather conditions without cracking. These features make composite doors a low-maintenance option for homeowners who want a door that stays looking great with minimal effort. However, steps can still be taken to maintain and protect your door in the long term.

 

Why Cleaning is Important

Composite doors are designed to be low-maintenance, however a little care and attention will ensure their longevity and keep them looking as good as new. Neglect over time can lead to a build-up of dirt and grime, which could affect the door and furniture’s appearance and functionality. Following a few simple steps ensures your composite door remains in excellent condition for years.

 

How to Clean Your Composite Door

Cleaning your composite door is both simple and quick. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to clean your door effectively:

1. What You’ll Need: To clean your composite door, you need a bucket of warm soapy water, and a soft cloth or sponge. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scouring pads, which can damage the door’s surface.
2. Start with the Door Surface: Using the damp cloth or sponge, gently wipe down the entire surface of the door to remove dirt and grime.
3. Clean the Frame: Don’t forget to clean the door frame, as this can accumulate dirt and dust. Use the same method for the door; warm water and a cloth should suffice.
4. Check the Hardware: While cleaning your door, it’s a good idea to check the condition of the door’s hardware, such as the handles, hinges, and locks. Wipe these down with a damp cloth to remove dirt and ensure they work smoothly. If you notice any stiffness or difficulty in operation, a small amount of lubricant (3 in 1 oil) can be applied to the moving parts.

 

Avoiding Common Mistakes

When it comes to maintaining a composite door, there are a few common mistakes that should be avoided to prevent damage:

• Avoid Abrasive Cleaners: Never use abrasive cleaners, scouring pads, or harsh chemicals on your composite door, as these can scratch or damage the surface. Stick to mild soap and soft cloths for cleaning.
• Don’t Paint Your Door: One of the great things about composite doors is that they come in a wide range of colours and finishes, designed to be long-lasting. Unlike Timber doors, composite doors do not need to be painted or varnished regularly, and doing so could void your warranty and ruin the door’s finish.
• Remember the Weather Seals: Weather seals around your composite door help to keep out draughts and moisture. Make sure these seals remain intact and free from dirt. If you notice any damage to the seals, they should be replaced promptly to maintain the door’s performance and energy efficiency. Always seek the advice of a professional installer before any remedial work is undertaken.

 

Maintaining the Glazing

If your composite door includes glazed panels, these should be cleaned like the rest of the door. Use warm soapy water and a soft cloth to wipe down the glass. Be sure to clean both sides of the glass and avoid using abrasive materials that could scratch or damage the surface.

 

While composite doors require minimal upkeep, performing a few checks with the changing seasons is still a good idea. Here’s what you can do:

• Autumn/Winter: Check the seals around your door to ensure they’re still effective as the weather gets colder and wetter. Clean off any leaves, mud, or debris accumulated around the door or threshold.
• Spring/Summer: After the harsh winter weather, thoroughly clean your door to remove any grime. Check the door’s operation, ensuring it opens and closes smoothly and that the locks and hinges are in good working order.

 

In conclusion, maintaining a composite door is easy, with a wipe-down with water and a cloth. This low level of upkeep, combined with the door’s durability, security, and energy efficiency, makes composite doors an excellent choice for homeowners who want a high-performing front or back door with minimal fuss.

Following the simple maintenance tips outlined in this guide, you can keep your composite door looking and functioning at its best for many years. If you’re looking for a new, low-maintenance door, take a look at our range of composite doors and design yours today. Find your local Hurst Doors installer.