Door buying guide

Door buying guide - First step - Pick the right material

• Composite doors – great all-rounders: strong, secure and low-maintenance. Ideal for busy family homes.
• uPVC doors – cost-effective, weatherproof, and easy to keep clean.
• Timber doors – warm, authentic look for period homes; need periodic care.
• Hybrid  doors (steel aluminium) – slim sightlines, modern feel, excellent colour stability. Highest energy efficiency and security.

If you’re unsure, pop into our Rushden showroom and compare real samples side by side.

Security: what to look for

• PAS 24 doorsets are tested against forced entry with tough, repeatable methods. Look for PAS 24:2022 + A1:2024 on specs.
• Cylinders rated 3-Star resist snapping, drilling and picking.
• Secured by Design (SBD) means products are independently tested and certified, with ongoing audits of manufacturing - the Police Preferred Specification.

Tip: match high-security locks with multipoint systems, reinforced hinges and laminated glass for a balanced setup.

Energy performance: warmer homes, lower bills

Look for door energy ratings (e.g., BFRC labels from A++ to E) and low U-values. Better ratings help reduce heat loss and draughts, which you’ll feel in winter around Northampton and Bedford.

Door buying guide - Styles & configurations

• Front & back doors – solid, part-glazed or fully glazed.
• French & patio – maximise light and access to the garden.
• Side panels & toplights – add daylight without losing privacy.
• Low thresholds – easier access for pushchairs and wheelchairs.

Glass: light vs privacy

Textured and etched glass keep hallways bright while protecting privacy. Laminated options add security and reduce noise. See our Glass Range → for patterns and privacy levels.

Colours & finishes

From Anthracite Grey to Chartwell Green, pick shades that suit the façade and street. Dual-colour lets you keep it classic indoors and bold outside. Explore Door Colours → for ideas.

Hardware that completes the look

Choose handles, knockers, letterplates and numbers to match your style: matte black, polished chrome, or brass. Quality finishes resist corrosion and keep their sheen for longer. Browse Door Furniture → for options.

Regulations, certificates & paperwork

• FENSA-registered installation confirms your replacement door meets Building Regulations and is registered with the local authority. Keep the FENSA certificate with your house documents; it’s often requested on sale, and recent certificates also verify insured warranties.
• Planning permission: replacing a door with one of similar appearance usually doesn’t need planning consent (exceptions apply, e.g., bay additions or conservation rules). Check details before ordering.

Guarantees & aftercare

Expect clear cover for the slab/frame, sealed units, hardware and finish, plus workmanship. We provide a 10-year guarantee on most doors and simple Door Care → guidance so you stay within terms.

Budgets & lead times (what to expect)

Costs vary with material, security spec, glass and hardware. Composite and aluminium tend to sit higher; uPVC is budget-friendly. Lead times depend on colour and custom options - we confirm when you order. For ballparks, see How Much New Doors Cost.

Our local process - Door buying guide - (nice and simple)

1. Free quote – show us what you like; we’ll advise on material, security and glass.
2. Survey – precise measurements by our FENSA-registered team.
3. Manufacture – built to spec; quality checked.
4. Fit & sign-off – clean, careful install and paperwork sorted.
   Want the whole flow? See How We Work →.

Serving Rushden + 50 miles - Northampton, Bedford, Milton Keynes, Kettering, Cambridge, Peterborough, Rugby, Hemel Hempstead - with UK-wide delivery available.

Ready to plan your door? Book your free, no-obligation quote and try samples in our Rushden showroom.

Door Buying Guide – Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best material for a front door in the UK?

It depends on priorities. Composite doors balance security, insulation and low maintenance. uPVC doors win on budget and easy care. Metal (steel, aluminium) offers slim, modern looks and colour stability, while timber suits period homes if you don’t mind occasional upkeep.

Do I need planning permission for a new front door?

Usually not if the replacement is similar in appearance to the existing door. However, conservation areas, listed buildings or bay alterations can trigger consent. If you’re near Rushden and unsure, we’ll advise before you order.

What is PAS 24 and should my new door have it?

PAS 24 is a UK security standard that tests resistance to forced entry. Choosing a PAS 24 doorset (ideally with 3-Star cylinders and, if available, Secured by Design) gives you a proven level of protection rather than just marketing claims.

Are composite doors more secure than uPVC doors?

Not automatically - the spec matters. Look for multipoint locking, reinforced hinges and (for glazed designs) laminated security glass. With the right hardware, both composite and uPVC models can be very secure.

What U-value or energy rating should I look for?

Lower U-values mean better insulation. Aim for a door that meets Building Regulations. In a chilly Northampton winter, you’ll feel the difference at the hallway.

How long does a new door take from order to fitting?

Most composite and uPVC doors are installed within 3–6 weeks, depending on colour, glass and hardware. We’ll confirm your date up front and keep you posted. Hybrid doors are made abroad and the lead time my be longer.

Who fits the door and what paperwork do I get?

Installation is by our own FENSA-registered team. After fitting you’ll receive (if requested) the FENSA certificate (compliance with Building Regulations) plus your guarantees.

How much do new doors cost in the UK?

Prices vary with material, security spec, glass and accessories. uPVC is typically most affordable; composite are mid-range and Hybrid cost more but add performance and style. For benchmarks, see How Much New Doors Cost → or ask for a free quote.

Can I mix styles, colours and glass?

Absolutely. Choose from Door Colours, the Glass Range, and matching Door Furniture to suit your home. Dual-colour options are great if you want a classic interior and a bold exterior.