UPVC front doors were the answer, a weather proof door which does not rot, absorb moisture, warp, twist and fits correctly every time. They have come although a long way since they first came out - the locking systems, thermal insulation, weather proofing and anti fading have improved considerably over the years.
There is range of PVC front doors styles available on the market today is almost endless. The range includes a framed door with glass panels or insulated decorative panels or a combination of both. The glass panels is usually a double glazed unit and the insulated solid panels consist of moulded inner and outer skin with a foam inner core between.
Quite often these doors are purpose made to suit the structural opening and they can be installed by the supplier or installed by you. They come complete with frame, handles, locking system and letter plate ready for installation.
If you are looking for a new uPVC door set the following specification would be typical:
- Door framing 70 mm thick pre-hung into frame
- Steel reinforcement all round
- Double weather seals
- Multi point locking system including level handles (handles white, black or brass coloured)
- Cylinders must be anti bump, anti drill, anti snap and anti pick type with three keys
- Letter plate
- Three adjustable door hinges incorporating stainless steel pins
- Glass panels – 28mm (4mm glass – 20mm air gap – 4mm glass) thick double glazed units
- All glazing beads internal for added security
Some examples of UPVC doors
The standard colour is white pvc front doors but other colours such a brown pvc front doors and black pvc front doors are available as well. PVC front doors in wood grain effect are nowadays very popular (see colour range below).
Range of uPVC colours
How to Measure the Existing Structural Opening
There are numerous manufacturers that will provide you with a door and frame on a supply basis only.
To measure the existing door opening follow these simple instructions:
- Measure from the outside the width, brick reveal to brick reveal – top, middle and bottom
- Measure from the outside the height, from head to floor in three places - left, middle and right
- Deduct 10 mm from the smallest dimensions for width and height
- Do not measure the old door frame
- Generally your door should fit within the following maximum and minimum sizes
- Maximum 1000 mm wide and 2200 mm in height
- Minimum 800 mm wide 1950 mm in height
Larger size openings than the maximum dimensions will involve a side panel (see example above).
Door Locking Systems
There are many types of locking systems available of the market so be aware of the options available for your new uPVC front door.
Sometimes higher security is required and a PVC door cannot come up to this standard. A security door is not just for the business premises. There are now a full range of exterior metal doors nowadays suitable for domestic home use. Steel security doors will offer much better security to protect your property and the occupants from unwanted guests.
For a related subject read all you need to know about PVC French doors or maybe you want a new set of uPVC patio doors.
As an alternative to a PVC type door consider a composite door. It’s probably more expensive but a quality product nonetheless.