Which is the Best Front Door for Your House in 2024?
Your front door is more than just an entrance.
It’s the first impression your home makes on visitors, arguably the first line of defence in your home’s security, and a significant factor in its energy efficiency in keeping the warm in and the cold out!
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With so many options in the UK, how do you select the best front door that meets all your requirements while complementing your home’s style?
Luckily, the experts at Value Doors are on hand.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore various front door materials, security aspects, styles, and costs to help you make an informed decision before you design your new front door!
Best front doors overview:
- How to choose the best front door for your UK home based on security, durability, aesthetics and cost.
- Make sure to consider composite doors for superior security and insulation or timber/aluminium/uPVC doors depending on personal preference, budget & maintenance requirements.
- Be aware that rice ranges vary from £300 to over £3,000 with additional costs, including installation & delivery. Ensure energy efficiency & longevity when selecting a door.
Which is the best front door replacement in the UK?
At Value Doors, we give homeowners in the UK a plethora of front door options, each offering unique advantages and disadvantages.
You will likely have heard of all the popular choices, including composite doors, timber doors, aluminium doors, uPVC doors, and steel doors, with wooden front doors being a timeless classic choice for many.
Times have changed since the trusty wooden door takes some looking after.
Therefore, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons of each material, considering factors like security, durability, aesthetics (most important for street cred), and cost before making a decision.
Nobody wants to deal with varnish or swelling throughout the year. The perfect front door should enhance your home's kerb appeal and provide safety and energy efficiency without any hassle.
Top 5 Best front doors for UK homes
Here is a list of what we believe are the best front door options in the UK.
Taking all the pros and cons into consideration, here is your top 5 list:
| #1 |
Composite Front Doors
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| #2 |
Aluminium Front Doors
|
| #3 |
uPVC Front Doors
|
| #4 |
Timber Front Doors
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| #5 |
Steel Front Doors
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1. Composite Front Doors
Composite front doors come in a vast range of choices, making them the best choice by a country mile.
The best composite front doors, including double door options, have gained popularity among UK homeowners in recent years.
Their remarkable blend of durability, energy efficiency, and low maintenance requirements is a key attraction.
These top-tier front doors meet all the necessary criteria, often boasting a reinforced steel door frame, a solid hardwood internal frame, and a surface skin crafted from GRP (glass-reinforced plastic).
This combination ensures outstanding security and insulation.
With a wide range of door furniture (letterboxes/handles etc) and glazing options available, you can easily customise a composite front door to suit your home’s unique style.
Read more about the best composite doors here in our guide.
pros
Being the best option, composite doors bring numerous benefits to the table, such as:
- A high level of security, superior thermal efficiency, and GRP skin offer resistance to weather conditions.
- Their solid construction and various finish options and accessories allow homeowners to design a door and create a unique and eye-catching entrance that complements their property’s exterior.
- Composite doors provide better insulation than other materials, ensuring your home stays warm and cosy throughout the year.
cons
While composite front doors offer many advantages, they also have drawbacks.
- One of the main disadvantages is their higher cost compared to other door types, such as wooden and uPVC doors.
- Composite doors can be more prone to scratches, requiring more frequent touch-ups to maintain their appearance.
The benefits of composite doors often outweigh these drawbacks, making them a great investment for many homeowners and rapidly becoming one of the most fitted doors in the UK, especially here at Value Doors.
Aluminium Front Doors
We absolutely love this type of door here at Value Doors!
Aluminium front doors are known for their strength, durability, and resistance to rust, making them an excellent choice for homeowners seeking a sleek, modern entrance.
A big bonus is that they're available in a wide range of RAL colours and designs, allowing for customisation to match your home’s unique architectural style.
Although aluminium front doors may come with a higher price tag compared to other materials, their durability and minimal maintenance needs justify the investment.
For those seeking a distinctive, contemporary, and secure front door, the long-lasting nature of aluminium makes it a worthwhile choice.
Read our guide on aluminium front doors for more information on why they may be the best option.
pros
Coming second in our list, clearly, aluminium doors offer a host of benefits, including:
- Their exceptional strength, rust resistance, and low maintenance requirements.
- They are available in various colours (full RAL colours in most cases) and designs, allowing you to create a unique entrance that complements your home’s exterior.
- Aluminium doors are also highly recyclable, making them an eco-friendly option for environmentally conscious homeowners.
- Their sleek, unique modern appearance and durability make them an increasingly popular choice for contemporary homes (who can afford them).
cons
Despite their many advantages, aluminium front doors do come with a few drawbacks:
- They tend to be more expensive than other materials, such as GRP, wood or uPVC, which may concern homeowners on a budget.
- Additionally, their sleek, modern aesthetic may not suit all home styles (incredibly much older ones), making them more suitable for contemporary properties.
When spending your hard-earned cash, you need to make sure it is essential to weigh these factors up against the benefits of aluminium doors to determine if they are the right replacement choice for your home.
Read more - Have you considered an aluminium pivot front door? Please read our guide now for more about these masterpieces.
uPVC Front Doors
If there's one thing that uPVC front doors are known for, it's an affordable and low-maintenance option for homeowners seeking a practical and cost-effective solution.
They also appeal because they come in various colours and designs, making it easy to find a door that complements your home’s exterior.
While they may not offer the same high security, durability and aesthetic appeal as composite, timber or aluminium doors, their energy efficiency and low-cost features make them an attractive choice for many homeowners and landlords.
Pros
The main advantages of uPVC front doors lie in the following:
- Their low cost means affordability, and they also have low maintenance costs in nature.
- They are resistant to weathering and require minimal upkeep, making them an ideal choice for busy homeowners.
- uPVC front doors offer good thermal performance, helping in the seemingly lost cause to reduce heat loss and save on energy bills.
At Value Doors, our customers frequently express concerns about the affordability of these doors.
However, when fitted with a multi-point locking system and anti-snap locks, uPVC doors can offer a high level of security for your home. Moreover, we also offer higher security uPVC front doors upon request.
Cons
While uPVC front doors offer many benefits, inevitably being cheaper, they have some limitations.
- They have a relatively short lifespan compared to other materials may mean they need your front door replaced more frequently.
- Additionally, they are not as environmentally friendly as composite or aluminium doors due to their reliance on non-renewable resources during production.
However, uPVC remains popular for homeowners seeking a considerably cheaper, more affordable, low-maintenance front door.
Timber Front Doors
Do you have an older property? Then timber front doors are a timeless choice, renowned for their natural beauty and adaptability.
With the right expertise and tools, wooden doors can be easily customised to suit various home styles, from traditional to contemporary.
The enjoyable warmth and character of wooden front doors, featuring a solid timber core, have made wooden doors a popular choice among homeowners for centuries.
However, there is a downside to all the delicious bits, and they do require regular looking after, which can be annoying.
These are things such as painting or staining to prevent warping and decay over time. Nevertheless, the classic appeal of timber doors remains unmatched for many UK homeowners looking for the best front door.
pros
The appeal of timber doors lies in their natural charm and versatility, making them suitable for a wide range of home styles, especially cottages or period properties.
They require regular maintenance to keep them looking their best and prevent warping, swelling, rotting, flaking and decay.
cons
On the other hand, uPVC front doors are a more affordable and low-maintenance alternative but may not offer the same level of durability and aesthetic appeal as timber doors.
Ultimately, the choice between wooden and uPVC doors comes down to personal preference, budget, longevity regarding replacement, and ease of maintenance.
Steel Front Doors
If security is a top priority for you as a super cautious homeowner protecting your brood, steel front doors are an excellent choice.
Like Superman, their robust and durable construction makes them ideal for high-security needs, such as protecting your home from break-ins.
Steel doors are also corrosion-resistant and require minimal maintenance, ensuring they remain in good condition for years.
The unique and modern appearance of steel doors adds a touch of sophistication to any home’s exterior.
While they may have limitations in terms of style and aesthetics, their uniqueness makes them a favoured option for modern properties.
pros
While they may seem like they should be fitted to a warehouse, steel front doors offer numerous advantages to homeowners, including:
- Steel front doors offer incredible strength, security, and corrosion resistance.
- Their low-maintenance nature makes them an attractive option for homeowners who want a durable and secure front door without the hassle of frequent upkeep.
- Steel doors are energy efficient and can help maintain a comfortable temperature in your home throughout the year, saving on heating and cooling costs.
cons
Despite their many benefits, steel front doors do have some drawbacks:
- They can be pretty heavy, which isn't suitable for less able people
- Because they weigh a lot, they may require additional reinforcement during installation.
- Steel doors can be more expensive than other materials, such as wood or uPVC.
- They may also be susceptible to denting, which could detract from their appearance over time.
However, the security and durability offered by steel front doors often outweigh (no pun intended) these potential disadvantages, making them a popular choice for homeowners seeking a high-security front door.
What is the best front door for security?
The security of your front door is often one of the most significant deciding factors to consider when selecting the perfect entrance for your home.
No matter the material, the most secure front doors feature high-quality locking systems (think 3-star diamond standard), adhere to security standards, and offer robust double-glazing or triple-glazing options.
By evaluating every one of these critical factors for front door security, you can ensure that you get the best front door that looks great and provides peace of mind regarding safety and protection.
Secure Front Doors Lock Types and Standards
When choosing a secure front door, it’s essential to consider the door lock types, security standards, and building regulations.
3-star diamond standard lockings, multi-point locking systems and ensuring they meet British Standards, such as BS 3621, are all critical factors in determining front door security.
The BS 3621 standard five-lever mortice lock is highly regarded as being the most secure one for a front door. It is known for its trustworthy security features.
By selecting the best front door with a high-quality lock that meets these standards, you can significantly enhance the security of your home.
Front Door Security Glazing Options and Safety
Glazing options play a vital role in ensuring the safety and security of a front door. Laminated glass and internal beads can help prevent break-ins by making it more challenging for intruders to gain access through the glass.
Additionally, on top of the usual options such as double glazing or triple glazing, using safety grills can provide an extra layer of protection for front doors with glass panels, albeit this can be a bit of an eyesore.
By carefully considering your front door's glass, glazing options, and safety features, you can create a secure and best entrance door that deters potential burglars.
Which is the best style of front door?
The best front door style is crucial, as it can greatly impact your home’s kerb appeal and overall aesthetic.
Traditional and contemporary designs offer unique benefits, with the former providing a classic and timeless appeal, while the latter delivers a sleek and modern look.
This section will explore various front door styles and how to choose the perfect design for your home. Consider the size and shape of your entryway, the material of the door, and the hardware.
Traditional vs. Contemporary Designs
Traditional front door designs, such as Victorian glazed and Georgian panelled doors with fanlights, offer a timeless elegance that suits period properties.
Conversely, contemporary front doors often feature simple designs with glazing and long modern pull handles, making them a popular choice for modern homes.
Consider your home’s architecture and overall aesthetic when selecting a front door style. You can create a harmonious and welcoming entrance by choosing a design that complements your property’s style.
Bold Colors and Customisation
Colour and customisation options can significantly impact the overall appearance of your front door.
While classic shades like black, white, and grey remain popular, opting for a bold colour like yellow, lime green, or turquoise can create a striking entrance and add personality to your home’s exterior.
Customisation options, such as decorative glass, hardware, and door knockers, allow you to create a unique front door that reflects your personal style.
By considering bold colours and customisation options, you can design an eye-catching front door that separates your home.
How much does the best front door cost?
Understanding the costs associated with front doors will likely be at the top of your tick list when selecting the perfect entrance for your home.
We all like lower costs, but prices can vary significantly depending on the door's material, size, and quality and any additional expenses, such as installation and delivery.
In this section, we will explore the various price ranges for front doors and discuss the factors that can influence their costs.
Price Ranges
New front door prices range from as low as £300 for a basic uPVC door to over £2,000 for a high-quality composite or aluminium door.
The cost will largely depend on the door's material, size, and quality, with timber front doors typically falling within the £1,000 to £3,000 range.
It’s essential to consider your budget and weigh each material's benefits before deciding.
Additional Costs
In addition to the cost of the door itself, you may also need to consider additional expenses, such as installation, delivery, hinges, and disposal of your old door.
Installation costs can range from £200 to £1,500, depending on the complexity of the process.
It’s important to factor in these additional costs when budgeting for your new front door to ensure you are making an informed decision.
Where can I buy the best new front door?
Once you’ve determined your preferred new front door material, style, and budget, it’s time to find a reputable replacement door supplier.
Home improvement stores and specialist door retailers are excellent sources for high-quality front doors, offering a wide range of options to suit your needs.
This section will discuss where to buy the best new front doors and explore their lifespan, energy efficiency, and popularity in the UK.
How long do the best front doors last?
The lifespan of front doors can vary greatly depending on the material and maintenance. Some high-quality doors, such as composite or timber front doors, can last up to 60 years or more with proper care.
Other materials, such as uPVC, may have a shorter lifespan, typically around 20-30 years.
Investing in a durable front door and performing regular maintenance ensures your entrance remains secure and stylish for years.
Which is the best external door for energy efficiency?
Energy-efficient front doors can help reduce heat loss and save on energy bills. Composite and double-front doors are particularly efficient, thanks to their insulating properties and robust construction.
When selecting an energy-efficient door, consider the material, glazing options, and weatherstripping to ensure a well-insulated entrance.
Investing in an energy-efficient front door allows you to enjoy a comfortable home environment while reducing your carbon footprint. A door for your home that is both stylish and sustainable is a smart choice.
Which is the most popular front door in the UK?
In the UK, composite doors are the most popular choice for front doors, offering a perfect blend of style, durability, and energy efficiency.
Anthracite grey has become a trendy colour option, providing many homes a modern and sophisticated appearance.
The Sherbourne design has emerged as the most sought-after front door style in the UK over the past year, showcasing the ongoing preference for contemporary aesthetics.
Final summary
In conclusion, selecting the perfect front door for your home involves considering material, security, style, and cost.
From timeless timber doors to sleek aluminium options, the UK offers a wide range of front doors to suit every taste and budget.
By evaluating the pros and cons of each material, exploring security features, and embracing bold design elements, you can create a welcoming and secure entrance that boosts your home's kerb appeal and functionality.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best weather-resistant front doors?
Fibreglass doors are the best choice for weather resistance, offering superior protection against the elements compared to wood or steel.
They are also more energy efficient and better at insulating against heat and cold. They are also more durable, as they are less likely to warp or crack over time.
What is the strongest type of front door?
The strongest type of front door is a composite door, composed of various materials such as wood, metal and uPVC for maximum strength and durability, making it more secure and weather-resistant.
This combination of materials creates a highly sturdy surface skin resistant to brute force. Composite doors are more robust than uPVC front doors in general, especially solid wooden core ones.
What materials are commonly used for front doors in the UK?
In the UK, composite, timber, aluminium, uPVC, and steel doors are commonly used for front doors.
How long can I expect my front door to last?
With proper maintenance, your front door can last up to 60 years or more.
What factors affect the cost of a front door?
The cost of a front door is affected by material, size, quality and additional expenses such as installation and delivery.
Installation and delivery can add to the overall cost of the door, so it’s essential to factor these costs into the budget. Additionally, the quality of the door can also affect the price.
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