Composite Door FAQs

What are Hurst composite doors made from?

Hurst Composite doors are made from a variety of different materials to ensure quality, strength and security of the highest standards. These materials are specifically selected for their properties, helping to keep your home safe and secure.

These materials include:

  • A dedicated PVC-U outer frame; a composite PVC-U sub-frame and an inner-frame made from laminated veneered lumber
  • A CFC-free polyurethane (PU) foam core
  • A weather resistant, 4mm Glass Reinforced Polyester (GRP) grained surface

What are the benefits of a Hurst composite door?

Hurst Composite doors offer unparalleled security with superb sound and heat insulation. They’re exceptionally durable and require low maintenance, thanks to their excellent weatherproofing.

Specific details of the product benefits can be found on our Composite Collection Overview page.

How safe is a composite door?

Composite doors are one of the most secure door options on the market. Their unique construction and multi-point locking systems offer heightened security, reducing the risk of break-ins. Additionally, Hurst composite doors have been independently tested and certified for their security standards, ensuring peace of mind. 

Why are Hurst composite doors better than other doors?

Hurst Composite doors provide a number of benefits in comparison to other doors, namely:

  • Exceptional strength. The high impact Glass Reinforced Polyester (GRP) skin offers exceptional durability and will maintain its appearance against everyday knocks and scratches.
  • Safe and secure. The GRP skin of composite doors is able to withstand a higher level of force than most other doors and prevents the door from warping during seasonal changes.
  • Hassle-free. Hurst composite doors have a maintenance-free finish, making it easy to keep clean. No sanding and painting is required to keep the door protected and looking fresh. It also won’t fade or discolour over time like other doors on the market.
  • Fantastic value for money. Composite doors have a longer lifespan than most doors, increasing the cost efficiency and reducing the environmental impact of the door.
  • Unparalleled choice. Make your door your own by choosing from over 1000 colour options and a wide range of glass options and stylistic features.

We’re proud of the high quality of our doors and we’re so sure you’ll love them that all our composite doors come with a 10-year guarantee.

What is Secured by Design and PAS 24?

Secured by Design (SBD) is a flagship UK police initiative with the central objective of ‘designing out crime’ through the use of high-quality innovative products and processes, supporting crime prevention in UK homes. In order to achieve Secure by Design status, our composite doors have been rigorously tested and must adhere to the organisation’s strict standards.

Statistics show that when it comes to burglaries in the UK, front doors are still the main source of access. These accreditations are our assurance to you that our doors will help keep your home as safe and secure as possible.

Our Secured by Design upgrade meets the national standard for safer homes and is also recognised by most insurance companies. Our products have been tested at a UKAS accredited test house and have achieved BS:PAS 24 Enhanced Security Requirements.

PAS 24 : 2016, published by the British Standards Institute, provides a method for testing and assessing the enhanced security performance requirements of external doorsets and windows in the UK.

For more information on the Secured by Design http://www.securedbydesign.com

How long will a composite door last?

Composite doors are renowned for their durability, security, and longevity. A well-maintained composite door can last over 25 years offering an excellent return on investment for those seeking a blend of aesthetics and functionality. This long lifespan is due to the door’s unique construction, combining materials such as PVC, insulating foam, and glass-reinforced plastic, which together resist weathering and wear over time. 

What colours are available?

Our composite doors can be sprayed in any one of 1,600 RAL Colours across our Standard, Standard Plus, Premium and Exclusive Select ranges. For full details of the colours available for your composite door, visit our colour page.

Can composite doors be resprayed?

Composite doors can be resprayed, but it’s essential to use the correct type of paint and preparation process. Seeking the help of a professional is strongly recommended for best results.  

How are composite doors fitted?

Hurst composite doors should be fitted by professional door installers due to their weight and the precision required. The process includes removing the existing door, installing the new frame and door, ensuring alignment, and finalising with sealing and operation check. 

How do I clean and maintain my composite door?

Composite doors are low maintenance and can be kept looking brand new with nothing more than the application of warm soapy water and a lint free cloth, dried clean with a soft clean cloth.

We also recommend that you oil moving parts every six months. Please ask your installer for details.

Is there anything I should avoid applying to my composite door?

Please do not:

  • Use abrasive cleaners or scouring pads
  • Use pressure washes or steam cleaners
  • Apply any type of bleach or solvent
  • Apply any adhesives of any type or tack

How thermally efficient are Hurst composite doors?

A Hurst composite door is the best choice you can make for thermal efficiency. Tests* prove a Hurst GRP composite door is more thermally efficient than a solid timber core composite door and traditional timber panelled door. You can be assured your door is keeping the warmth in and the cold out.

*Statistics based on independent research carried out on doors at the University of Salford’s Energy House.

Can I paint my composite door?

It is recommended that you do not try to paint your composite door yourself, without speaking to a professional first. You will find it difficult to paint over the composite door’s original colour without it looking untidy.

Thankfully, if you are looking for a new door, we have over 1600 colours for you to choose from, so finding your perfect colour should never be a problem.

If you are simply wanting to clean up the look of your composite door, you’ll find that a warm, soapy wash does the job.

Can I touch up the colour on my front door if it is knocked or damaged?

If you’re looking to paint the composite door to cover up some scratches, you don’t have to worry about repainting the entire door and potentially ruining its look and feel. There are some touch up pens available to buy that are perfect for filling in the odd scratch or groove on your door, these will save you the cost of replacing the door entirely. Ask your installer for details.

How much does a composite door cost?

The cost of a composite door can vary significantly based on the door style, size, glass and hardware chosen for the door. As Hurst Doors, we supply to the trade, and so we don’t provide retail prices. Please contact a local door installer for an accurate quote on composite door prices. 

Are composite doors more expensive than uPVC?

Depending on the design, yes, composite doors are generally more expensive than uPVC doors. This is due to the combination of high-quality materials used and the intricate manufacturing process. However, the durability and longevity of composite doors often provides greater value over time.  

How can I get a quote for a Hurst composite door?

Use our door designer to create the perfect entrance to your home and complete the enquiry form at the end of the process. Your design will be sent to your local installer and they will contact you to discuss your requirements and provide a quote.

What is a U Value?

The U Value measures how well a component (such as a roof, wall, window, or premium quality door) keeps heat inside a building. The higher the U Value, the less efficient your components will be; a good U Value is a low one.

The rating of your door will be influenced by its glazing content. The latest UK Building Regulations, Approved Document L, requires a U value requirement of no more than 1.4 W/Mtr2/K. Hurst composite doors are equal to or less than 1.4 W/Mtr2/K.

Where can I purchase Hurst composite doors in my area?

To locate your nearest Hurst Composite door installer please use our locator tool.

Can I request a brochure?

Brochures can be downloaded from our website or if you would prefer a hard copy, please complete our contact form and we’ll pop it in the post.

What if I can’t find the door style or glass that I want?

We only show a selection of our standard door styles and glasses in our brochure, so if there’s something you’ve seen elsewhere or if you’re looking for a unique door, simply ask your installer to speak to us – we’ll do everything we can to help you find the perfect door for your home.

Who should I contact if I have any questions regarding my new Hurst door?

If you have any questions regarding your new door, please contact your installer who will be able to help you.

Can you put a cat flap in a composite door?

A cat flap can be installed in a Hurst composite door, though it’s recommended to use a professional installer to maintain the door’s integrity. 

Where can I purchase a Kubu Kit?

Once your Hurst composite door with Kubu equipped lock has been installed, you can purchase your Kubu Kit at www.kubu-home.com

How do I register my Avocet ABS Ultimate Cylinder £1000 Security Guarantee?

To register for your ABS Ultimate Euro Cylinder lock snapping £1000 security guarantee please visit the Avocet website.

Full terms and conditions can be found on our website.

How do I register my ABS key code?

When you receive your Avocet ABS keys you must register your key code on Avocet’s website by completing the registration form.

Are composite doors soundproof?

Hurst composite doors offer excellent sound insulation due to their insulating foam core. However, complete soundproofing depends on factors like the door’s fit and seal. 

Do composite doors scratch easily?

Hurst composite doors are resistant to scratches thanks to the durable GRP outer skin. However, like any door, they can be scratched with enough force or a sharp object. 

Do composite doors need a FENSA certificate?

If a Hurst composite door is being installed in a new build or significant renovation involving structural changes, it may need a FENSA certificate for UK building regulations. For replacements, a FENSA certificate isn’t usually necessary however it is recommended that you seek the advice of your installer.