Composite doors are still very much the new kids on the block and, unlike uPVC which has been around for a long time, are relatively unproven, particularly when it comes to security.
But if you are considering a composite door, maybe because you want a more unique finish to your home, and you’re concerned with security, you really shouldn’t be.
Security Benefits of a Composite Door
All composite doors have been manufactured since standards were introduced, meaning they all conform to the same security and safety standards as the most modern uPVC doors.
They also offer some additional security benefits, including:
- Stronger material. Composite doors are much thicker than uPVC, making it harder to force entry.
- Reinforced glass. The strong, structural frame of the door and the reinforced glass, means the glass will not fall out of the door if broken; it will shatter but remain in place.
- Multi-point locking system. This runs down the edge of the door and hooks onto the frame in multiple points when the lock is engaged.
What security standards should I look for?
If you remain unconvinced, there are a number of standards against which doors are tested.
Any composite door you buy should conform to and carry the badge for the following standards:
- PAS 24. This is an accreditation which has been agreed by both the police and insurance companies and is assurance that your door meets the highest standard of security. PAS 24 accreditation alone is enough to buy with peace of mind.
- CE Mark. This mark tells you that the door conforms to the requirements of EU regulations
- Secured by Design. This is a UK Police initiative focusing on crime prevention through product design.
Additional Security Measures
There are, of course, other things you can do to further secure your property.
The two most common are a spy-hole and door chain.
Door chain
A door chain allows you to reduce the opening of your door to just a few inches and prevents somebody from forcing entry once your door is unlocked and opened.
Spy-hole
A spy-hole integrated in your door will also allow you to identify who is on your doorstep before opening the door. Tradesmen can show their identification through the spy-hole, so you can be confident they are who they say they are before opening the door.
If you’re considering purchasing a composite door for your home, security really shouldn’t put you off.
Providing you follow the above guidance and your door carries the standards described, you can be assured that your new composite door will offer the very best security currently available.
Spire Glass will be happy to discuss your options further and provide you with a quote for your new composite door. Get in touch to find out more.