Choosing a new composite door is a great way to improve your home’s security, appearance and energy efficiency – but how much should you expect to pay? If you’ve found yourself asking this question, you’re not alone. One of the most common enquiries we receive at Emerald Windows is about composite door prices and what drives them.

In this guide, we’ll break down the key factors that influence the cost of composite doors so you can make a well-informed decision for your home.

A modern black composite front door with side panel and large handle on a brick house.

What is a composite door?

A composite door combines multiple materials – typically a solid timber core, insulating foam, and a GRP (glass reinforced plastic) skin – to deliver outstanding durability, thermal performance and security. This layered construction outperforms traditional uPVC doors or wooden doors in almost every respect, which is why they’ve become a top choice for homeowners across the UK.

How much do composite doors cost?

Composite door prices vary between £1,200 and £2,000+ (inc VAT), depending on design and customisation.

At Emerald Windows, our doors are always priced transparently and include VAT, installation and relevant certifications. Whether you’re looking for traditional composite doors with classic panel designs, modern composite doors, or something in between, we provide solutions to suit a wide range of budgets.

Key factors that affect composite door prices

1. Material quality and structure

The internal structure of a composite door is one of the most significant factors in determining its price – and its long-term performance. At the heart of every high-quality composite door is the core, and not all cores are created equal.

Solid timber core vs foam-filled alternatives

Many budget composite doors use a foam-filled core, which reduces weight and cost but compromises on strength and security. At Emerald Windows, we only install doors with a solid timber core, made from laminated layers of high-performance wood that deliver exceptional strength, impact resistance, and dimensional stability.

This core is pressure-laminated and precisely engineered to eliminate weak spots, giving the door a dense, solid feel and reassuring robustness that foam-core options simply can’t match. It also contributes significantly to thermal efficiency, helping to retain warmth in the colder months and reduce your energy bills over time.

GRP skin and external protection

Encasing the core is a high-specification GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) skin, also known as fibreglass. This ultra-durable outer layer is compression moulded under high pressure and heat to form a woodgrain-effect surface that not only looks authentic but also resists dents, scratches, and warping over time.

The GRP skin is colour-bonded during manufacturing, meaning the colour runs through the material rather than sitting on top like paint. This significantly improves resistance to fading and UV damage, reducing the need for maintenance and repainting – even in harsh weather conditions.

Integrated moisture barrier and internal frame

Beneath the skin, advanced manufacturing techniques are used to build in long-lasting protection. For instance, some of the best composite doors feature a moisture barrier system that prevents water ingress and protects against swelling, a common issue in lesser doors. The solid core is encased within a rigid internal sub-frame that provides structure, alignment and a precise fit during installation.

Thermal and acoustic insulation

Because of the dense solid timber core combined with airtight seals and thermally efficient glazing options, our composite doors offer superior insulation – both thermal and acoustic. The materials used in our doors help keep heat inside your home while reducing external noise, making them ideal for energy-conscious households or homes near busy roads.

A pastel green composite front door with multiple glass panels on a white rendered house.

2. Design and glazing options

The visual appearance of your entrance matters – and composite doors offer a huge range of front and back door styles. From classic look designs to more contemporary anthracite or black composite doors, every choice affects the final price.

Adding decorative glass, glazed composite door sections, or even side panels will increase cost, but it also adds kerb appeal and natural light.

Our most popular finishes include:

  • White composite doors for timeless appeal
  • Grey composite doors for a sleek, modern aesthetic
  • Black composite doors for bold elegance

All of our glazing units use double glazing for improved energy efficiency.

3. Colour and finish

At Emerald Windows, we offer a wide selection of external door colours to suit every style of home – from traditional to ultra-modern. Whether you prefer classic whites, deep greys, bold blacks or natural woodgrain textures, our composite doors are available in an array of durable, fade-resistant finishes.

Looking for something with a refined contemporary edge? Our Sleek Skin finish offers a flawless, smooth surface with sharp detailing and a premium matte look that sets your entrance apart. Designed for modern living, Sleek Skin is not only aesthetically striking but also highly resilient, with superior resistance to scratches, fading and everyday wear.

And if you want a door with character, we also offer cottage-style composite options with charming heritage glass designs – perfect for adding personality to your property.

4. Security and hardware

Security is a top priority for any external door, and our composite doors are built to provide complete peace of mind. Each door is fitted with high-security multi-point locking systems, robust hinges, and precision-engineered components designed to resist forced entry.

For enhanced durability and a modern aesthetic, we offer stainless steel hardware options that not only look sleek but are also highly resistant to corrosion – ideal for long-lasting performance in all weather conditions.

Looking for advanced locking technology? Our doors can be fitted with the Bold cylinder, a next-generation security feature designed to resist snapping, drilling, and picking. It’s a smart investment in both protection and convenience, offering enhanced resistance to common break-in methods while maintaining a clean, modern appearance.

5. Installation and service

The cost of your new composite door also includes professional installation. At Emerald Windows, we don’t cut corners. Our FENSA-certified installers ensure every product is fitted to exacting standards, offering a 10-year parts guarantee and local support.

We’re proud to serve homeowners in South West England, from Swindon to Bristol and beyond, providing a trusted local service backed by over 15 years of industry experience.

Why are composite doors more expensive than uPVC doors?

Composite doors offer better insulation, security and durability than uPVC doors.

While uPVC options may be cheaper upfront, composite front doors provide long-term value through their longevity, reduced maintenance, and energy savings.

For many budget-conscious consumers, this investment offers greater returns – particularly when factoring in the bonus of maintenance reduction.

How can I keep composite door costs down?

To stay within budget, we recommend:

  • Choosing standard colours and sizes
  • Opting for simpler glass designs
  • Avoiding ultra-premium hardware or tech features
  • Consulting a local composite door supplier like Emerald, as national companies often inflate their prices to cover overheads and marketing costs – choosing a trusted local provider can offer better value and more personalised service. We always offer transparent pricing and can guide you to the best options for your home.

Try our online door designer tool

Designing your perfect composite door has never been easier, thanks to the Emerald Windows Door Designer tool. This user-friendly online tool lets you customise every aspect of your new door – from style and colour to glazing, hardware and finish – all in real time.

Whether you’re curious about how a black composite door would look on your home, or you want to experiment with glass styles and side panels, the tool helps you visualise it before committing. You can even upload a photo of your home to see how different designs complement your property.

Once you’ve created your ideal door, simply submit your design for a free, no-obligation quote from our expert team in Swindon. It’s the quickest way to start your composite door journey with Emerald Windows – tailored to your taste and budget.

Are composite doors environmentally friendly?

Yes. Many external composite doors are made using sustainable materials and contribute to better thermal performance, reducing your home’s carbon footprint. Our doors are designed to minimise heat loss, helping to lower energy bills and promote eco-conscious living.

A light-colored dog walks past a white interior composite front door with decorative glass.

Final thoughts

When shopping for composite doors, it’s worth remembering that you’re not just buying a door – you’re investing in your home’s security, comfort, and aesthetic for years to come.

At Emerald Windows, we offer a wide range of styles, finishes and specifications to meet the unique needs of each homeowner. Whether you want a glazed composite door, traditional design, or a modern style in anthracite or black, our team is here to help you make the right choice.

Ready to choose your new door?

Explore our full range of composite doors today and get in touch for a free, no-obligation quote. Our team in Swindon is on hand to provide expert advice and a local service you can trust.

Or give us a call to discuss your project – we’re here to help every step of the way.

More From Us

Introducing the SleekSkin Finish: The Ultimate Style Choice for Your Composite Doors | Emerald Windows & Doors

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Swindon-based family run double glazing installers

With a head office in Swindon, a short trip from the motorway, we are ideally located to offer our services across Wiltshire, Reading, Bath, Bristol, Marlborough, Berkshire, Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, and other surrounding locations.

Emerald provide and install home improvements in all materials – uPVC, aluminium and traditional timber. No matter what material you choose, you can be sure we’ll provide you consistent quality – our work is always finished to the highest standards, whether you’re installing 2 windows or 20!

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