What are GRP doors? A complete guide for homeowners
If you’re researching a new front door for your home, you’ve likely come across the term “GRP doors.” But what are GRP doors, and why have they become such a popular choice for UK homeowners?
At Entrance Composite Door Solutions, we believe an informed decision is a confident one. This guide will demystify GRP doors, exploring their composition, benefits, and how they compare to traditional door materials – helping you find the perfect entrance for your home.
Understanding GRP: What does it mean?
GRP stands for Glass Reinforced Plastic. In the world of doors, GRP is used as a tough, weather-resistant skin that covers the outside of composite doors. This outer layer not only gives the door its attractive finish but also provides a durable barrier against the elements, knocks, and daily wear and tear.
What are GRP doors made of?
GRP doors, often called GRP composite doors, are constructed from a variety of materials layered together for maximum strength and performance. Here’s what goes into a typical GRP door:
- Outer layer: Two GRP skins form the tough exterior, available in a wide range of colours and finishes.
- Core: Most GRP doors have a high-density polyurethane foam core, delivering excellent thermal efficiency and insulation.
- Frame: A solid timber or composite frame gives the door its rigidity and structure, while some designs use an aluminium or uPVC outer frame for added strength and stability.
- Hardware and glazing: Modern locking systems, hinges, and decorative glass designs can all be incorporated for style and security.
This combination creates a door slab that is robust, energy-efficient, and visually appealing – perfect for external doors in the UK climate.
The benefits of GRP composite doors
- Outstanding durability
GRP doors are built to last, making them a long-term investment in your home’s security and appearance. The robust GRP skins are highly resistant to warping, cracking, and fading, even after years of exposure to rain, wind, and sunlight. Unlike traditional wooden doors, GRP composite doors won’t swell or shrink with changes in moisture, so they maintain a perfect fit and smooth operation throughout the seasons. At Entrance Composite Door Solutions, we’re so confident in the longevity of our doors that we offer a 25-year structural guarantee – giving you complete peace of mind for decades to come. - Excellent thermal efficiency
Thanks to their high-density foam core and precision-engineered seals, GRP doors offer outstanding thermal insulation. In fact, a foam core is 19% more thermally efficient than a 48mm solid timber core and 17% more efficient than a traditional timber door. This superior insulation means less heat escapes your home in winter and less heat enters in summer, helping to lower your energy bills and maintain a comfortable indoor temperature all year round. - Low maintenance requirements
GRP doors require very little upkeep to stay looking their best. A simple wipe with a damp cloth is usually all that’s needed – no painting, varnishing, or regular treatments required. This low-maintenance design saves you time and money year after year. To back this up, Entrance Composite Door Solutions offers a 10-year surface guarantee on all our composite doors, ensuring lasting beauty and performance with minimal effort. - Wide range of colours and styles
With GRP composite doors, you’re not limited to just a few options. At Entrance Composite Door Solutions, we offer over 9,000 design combinations, including a huge variety of colours, finishes, glass designs, and hardware options. Whether you prefer a traditional timber-effect look or a sleek, modern style, there’s a GRP door to suit your taste. - Security and peace of mind
Our GRP doors are engineered with security in mind. Multi-point locking systems, anti-snap cylinders, and Part Q certification mean you can trust your new door to protect your home and family. For added peace of mind, we use Brisant Ultion cylinders, backed by a £2,000 break-in guarantee.
How do GRP doors compare to other door types?
| Feature | GRP Doors | uPVC Doors | Traditional Wooden Doors |
| Durability | Excellent | Good | Varies (can warp/rot) |
| Maintenance | Very low | Low | High (needs painting) |
| Thermal Efficiency | Excellent | Good | Fair |
| Customisation | Extensive | Limited | Good |
| Security | High (PAS24 certified) | Moderate | Moderate |
| Cost-effectiveness | Long-term savings | Lower upfront, less durable | High maintenance costs |
GRP composite doors offer a compelling blend of durability, efficiency, and style compared to both uPVC and timber doors. While uPVC doors are cost-effective, they often lack the strength and insulation of GRP doors. At the same time, traditional wooden doors look beautiful but require regular upkeep and are prone to warping and moisture damage.
Are GRP doors the same as composite doors?
Not quite. GRP doors are a type of composite door. All GRP doors are composite doors, but not all composite doors are GRP doors. The key difference is in the core:
- GRP doors typically use a foam core for insulation and are lighter in weight.
- Solid core composite doors may use a solid timber core, making them heavier and even more secure.
What about cost and value?
GRP doors are a relatively new product in the UK market but have quickly become a popular choice for homeowners. While they may cost a little more upfront compared to basic uPVC doors, their durability, low maintenance, and excellent thermal efficiency often make them more cost-effective over time. Plus, a stylish, secure new door can add value and kerb appeal to your home.
What customisation options are available?
At Entrance Composite Door Solutions, we believe every home is unique. That’s why we offer:
- A wide palette of colours to match any property style
- Traditional and modern styles through collections like the Edge, Gemstone, Galaxy, Highline, Elements, and Elegance collections
- Decorative glass designs and a variety of hardware options
- Frame colours and finishes to suit your taste
- An easy-to-use composite door designer on our website, so you can create your perfect door online
How long do GRP doors last?
A well-made GRP composite door can last 35 years or more with minimal upkeep. Our doors are backed by a 25-year guarantee, reflecting our confidence in their long-term performance and our commitment to quality – the Entrance Way.
Do GRP doors warp or fade over time?
No, GRP doors are specifically designed to resist warping, fading, and weather damage. Their advanced construction ensure they retain their appearance and fit for decades, even in harsh UK weather.
Why choose Entrance Composite Door Solutions?
- Quality you can trust: We manufacture composite doors the Entrance Way, meaning every door is built for longevity, security, and style.
- Expertise and experience: With decades of experience, we’re trusted by homeowners and trade professionals across the UK.
- Unmatched customisation: Over 9,000 design combinations, including colours, glass, and hardware.
- Security and peace of mind: Part Q-certified, multi-point locking, and Brisant Ultion cylinders.
- Energy efficiency: Advanced insulation for lower bills and a more comfortable home.
- Easy online design: Use our composite door designer to create your dream entrance.
Ready for a new GRP door?
If you’re considering a new door for your home, a GRP composite door from Entrance Composite Door Solutions is an excellent choice. Explore our collections, try our online designer, or contact our friendly team for expert advice and a free, no-obligation quote. Experience the Entrance Way – where quality, security, and style meet.
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