Composite doors are a great alternative to traditional steel doors, but they do come with their fair share of problems.
In this blog post, we will be exploring the problems that you may encounter with composite doors and how to solve them so that your door is an attractive feature in your home rather than a nuisance.
A list of common problems with composite doors:
- Composite doors are not as strong as steel or aluminum.
- They can warp or crack over time, which leads to water leaking in your home.
- They are more expensive than a standard door.
- They can be less resistant to adverse weather conditions.
- The materials used to make them can be flammable and toxic.
Avoid problems with composite doors with this quick tip:
Keep your door dry and well maintained. Whether you are cleaning it, painting, or sealing it, make sure that there is no moisture on its surface.
This will help ensure that it does not warp or crack over time as a result of water exposure. It also helps avoid unwanted drafts.
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Why Are Composite Doors Problematic?
Many homeowners are under the impression that composite doors will last as long or longer than standard steel and aluminum doors because they look like more expensive models.
However, this is not always true. Composite doors come with a number of problems you should be aware of before making your final decision on which type to buy or maybe consider purchasing a traditional steel or aluminum door.
Do Composite Doors Swell?
Yes, composite doors will swell in certain climates just like any other door. This problem is most prevalent during the spring and summer when it rains more often or has a higher humidity level.
It can also happen if you live near an area that is prone to severe weather conditions where sudden changes in temperature are common.
If you’re living in a climate that is prone to these conditions, consider purchasing an insulated composite door.
Composite doors with insulation are more expensive than those without but will help with protecting the door from unwanted swell and bowing.
Another option is installing full-length seals on your existing door which will not only help prevent it from swelling but also keep out drafts and cold air during the winter.
Do Composite Doors Fade in the Sun?
Yes, composite doors fade in the sun. Depending on the manufacturing process and environmental conditions, it may take up to 8 years for a composite door to start fading in the sun.
First of all, you need to know that not all composite doors are created equal. Some will fade more than others depending on their composition and the manufacturer’s techniques for applying color pigments (the resin used in composites).
Second, UV rays can also be unpredictable because they fluctuate depending on how much cloud cover there is or how high up into the sky you are looking at them from (higher ground means less UV exposure).
All that being said, it can take anywhere from 2-8 years before your door starts to show signs of fading if it was properly installed without any issues.
Are Composite Doors Draft Proof?
Yes, but only if they are installed properly if you are feeling a draft coming from your door you should contact a professional for assistance.
A door can only be draft-proof if it is fitted with an external door sealant or weatherstrip.
Composite doors will usually come with this type of sealant already applied on the door frame, but not always.
Composite doors offer many benefits including energy efficiency, thermal comfort, and low maintenance costs over time because there are no gaps between the panels.
Are Composite Doors Flammable?
A lot of people believe that composite doors are fireproof and can withstand high temperatures, but is this true? Mostly all composite doors are flammable but there measures you can take to ensure your doors are fire-resistant compliant.
Make sure you are ordering FD30 rated composite doors.
These doors are fire-resistant, and will not catch on fire as easily. This is especially important for exterior doors to your home or business, but it also applies indoors too.
For interior doors that are not exposed to the elements (e.g., a bedroom door) go with MDF only – this material doesn’t burn nearly as quickly.
To find out more about FD30 rated doors, click here: ifsecglobal info on firedoors.
Why Do Composite Doors Bow?
Normally, composite doors do not bow when they are newly installed but over time, this can happen. There are a few reasons for them to bow:
- The door is too heavy and the frame cannot handle it.
- When someone slams the door repeatedly over a long period of time (this will cause stress on the composite).
- The door that was not installed correctly; if there’s an issue with how well anchored in place the hinge or latch plate is then tension could pull against one side of the door causing it to bow outward.
To fix, remove screws from hinges or latches plates and reinstall so they’re more flush with the surface rather than protruding out farther.
Many times, ensuring your doors have been installed tightly along their entire length would help alleviate bowing problems as well.
Locking Problems with Composite Doors
Is your composite door not closing properly? The below are 4 quick fixes you could try to see if helps your door to close tightly:
1. Check the door and surrounding frame for any damage.
2. Adjust the hinges so that they are not too tight or too loose.
3. Replace the hinge screws with longer ones if necessary.
4. Tighten the screws on the strike plate and strike box.
How Long Do Composite Doors Last?
The life expectancy for doors made from composites like vinyl, PVC or aluminum is typically about 25 years but it will depend on how intensely it is used and the quality of care it receives.
It’s not uncommon for doors to last upwards of 30-40 years with regular maintenance and upkeep.
However, older homes may experience premature wear on their exterior doors due to the frequency of opening and closing them over many years.
Some people argue that wood lasts longer than composite material because it doesn’t scratch as easily and can be sanded down when necessary – but this can also lead to rotting which would then require a new door altogether!
Exterior composite doors should be maintained on a regular basis and this includes cleaning the door with a non-abrasive cleanser and soap.
The hinges should also be checked for any signs of wear or rust.
It is important to keep in mind that as long as your door has been installed correctly, it will last for many years if you care for it properly.
Should I Buy a Composite Door Having Considering the Possible Problems?
If you are considering a composite door for your home, it is important to know about the common problems that can arise with this type of door.
Composite doors have become very popular because they offer many different benefits over traditional wood or steel doors.
However, there are some negatives which we have covered in this article, which you should be aware of before making any decisions on whether or not to install one in your house.