Thanks to their strength, high performance, durability, security and versatile design options, composite doors are a popular choice for property owners across the country. 

One of the key components that gives composite doors these qualities is their use of sealants. A high quality sealant will boost your door’s weatherproofing, and keep the door protected against common risks (including everything from mould to wear and tear), thereby maximising its lifespan.

Below, we’ve shared a complete guide to understanding sealants for composite doors, including how they work, and how to find the best type of sealant for your specific composite door. 

How is sealant added to composite doors? 

In composite doors, sealant is applied around the entire perimeter of the door frame (externally, and sometimes internally too). If glazing panels or glass inserts feature in the door, sealant is also added around these. 

This way, the sealant enhances the door’s: 

• Weatherproofing
• Insulation and draft resistance 
• Energy efficiency 
• Sound insulation
• Protection against damp, mould, rot and mildew
• Resistance to pests 
• Resistance to warping and cracking 
• A neat, smooth visual finish 

How is a composite door installed?

The typical process for installing a composite door involves:

• Carefully measuring the opening
• Removing the existing door and frame (being careful to avoid damaging the surrounding masonry)
• Cleaning and preparing the opening
• Fitting the new composite door frame
• Hanging the door onto its hinges 
• Checking the door, to ensure smooth movement and a neat alignment
• Adding sealant around the door frame
• Completing final checks and any last adjustments 

This process usually takes around half a day to a full day, depending on the level of adjustments and alterations that are required. 

When installing a composite door, the primary regulations that you need to be aware of are Building Regulations Part L (which covers the property’s energy efficiency) and Part Q (which details security standards in new builds).

Why is it important to choose the right door sealant?

When installing a new composite door, it is imperative that you choose a dependable, high quality sealant. 

This is because the sealant used plays a key role in ensuring the door’s performance, structural integrity, and longevity. 

The right sealant for a composite doors will need to be:

• Durable and long-lasting – The right sealant should have a predicted lifespan of around 10-20 years.
• Weather-resistant – Ensuring high resistance to rain, wind, cold and hot temperatures, and UV rays
• Flexible – To be able to absorb movements in the unit, without being damaged.
• Damp-resistant – To ensure the unit is resistant to the development of damp staining, as well as mould and mildew.

We would recommend avoiding standard acrylic or general-purpose sealants, as they won’t be of a sufficient quality to achieve these qualities. 

High quality external sealants like low-modulus neutral cure (LMN) silicone sealants are a great choice for composite doors, as they are renowned for their durability, elasticity and impressive weather resistance. 

For further guidance about door sealants and finding the best sealant for your composite door, our expert installers are on hand to help. 

Composite door installation and maintenance

When it comes to keeping your composite door at its best, regular maintenance is key. 

Your ongoing maintenance should include:

• Cleaning the door and frame every few months (do this using mild soapy water and a soft cloth)
• Inspecting the seals and hinges for any sign of movement or degradation
• Lubricating locks and hinges 
• Regularly checking the sealant for any signs of cracking or shrinkage

To ensure the long-term security and durability of your composite door, enlisting a professional installer is imperative. 

They will be able to equip your door with the highest security standards, with features including: 

• Fully aligned multi-point locking mechanisms 
• High-security cylinders (which meet TS007 or SS312 Diamond standards)
• Regular maintenance schedules, to check that the frame remains completely secure throughout its lifespan 

For the highest quality, most dependable composite door unit, speak to a professional installer. 

At Abbey Glass, our skilled installation team are highly experienced, and fully qualified. They will work with you to create a tailored solution for your home, which is modern, stylish and of the very highest quality and security. 

To find out more about the composite door installation process, or to get a quote tailored to your home, don’t hesitate to get in touch.