Modern Black Front Door
When selecting a new front door for your home, you will find a wide range of colours and designs to suit your style. A modern black front door, paired with sleek, contemporary hardware, creates a striking first impression.
The rich, dark finish of black aluminium or black glass adds a touch of sophistication to your entryway. For a truly minimalist look, combine it with black architectural glazing and slim aluminium sightlines, achieving a clean, elegant aesthetic that enhances the overall appeal of your home.
Modern black front door
Adding glass to your front door design can help bring natural light into your hallway, brightening your home and creating a welcoming atmosphere. Depending on your space, you could choose a sleek, modern black front door with integrated glass panels, or enhance the entry with one or two glazed side panels to embrace the width of your doorway. If you have the height, a glazed top light above the door can also be a stylish way to flood your entrance with extra light. View our inspiration gallery.
Black aluminium doors
Aluminium front doors are a popular option for homeowners due to their durability and aesthetic appeal. One key advantage of aluminium is its powder-coated paint finish, which resists fading from sun exposure. This makes aluminium an excellent choice, especially for black doors, as the finish maintains its rich colour over time. The door shown below is a black aluminium pivot door with a bonded black glass facade. The pivot design is perfect for creating a large, striking entrance while still offering all the security and safety features of a modern aluminium front door. Design your bespoke black front door here.
Modern black double front door
At Spitfire Doors, every door is custom-made to your exact specification, in your preferred colour and design. While modern black double front doors with their sleek aluminium finish make a bold statement, you have the freedom to create a truly unique front door with our range of designer finishes. Some options feature stunning marble-effect finishes and luxury designer handles, such as the elegant Pivot double door shown below in black marble. Take a look at our range of Pivot Doors
Black front door with side panels
If space allows, you can enhance your front door design by incorporating two side panels, paired with a solid black front door. Adding safety-laminated glazing to the side panels provides both security and style. You can choose clear glass to let in plenty of natural light, or opt for satin obscured glass to maintain privacy while still allowing some light to filter through.
For a more bespoke look, you can mix clear and obscured glass, by combining obscured glass with clear lines, or vice versa. In the design shown below, the homeowner has selected a more traditional door style, featuring a high-quality door knocker and knob. The black aluminium front door is equipped with advanced multi-point locking for enhanced security and offers excellent thermal efficiency.
Huge Front Door
A huge front door can evoke a sense of grandeur, elegance, and significance in residential architecture. It provides not only a functional entry point but also an important aesthetic element that set the tone for the entire structure.
Aluminium front doors are possible in huge sizes, with a single door available up to 1,250mm wide and up to 2,700mm high. Pivot entrance doors can be crafted even larger than that, with a single door available in sizes up to 2,000mm wide and up to 3,000mm high. For openings larger than these sizes, a glazed side panel or top light can be added to increase the overall width and height of the entrance door.
Take a look at our gallery for inspiration
Huge Front Door for your Home
Front doors are often the first impression of a home. When these doors are oversized, they amplify that impression. An extra wide front door can create a sense of drama and anticipation, inviting visitors to explore what lies beyond. In residential design, they can signify the homeowner’s personality and style, while in commercial architecture, they may represent the brand’s image or the building’s purpose.
Oversized Front Door
Historically, oversized doors have been a hallmark of significant buildings, from cathedrals and palaces to public institutions. In many cultures, massive doors were designed to convey strength and security. For example, the grand entrances of ancient Roman basilicas often featured towering doors that emphasised the importance of the sacred space within. Similarly, in medieval castles, large wooden doors served as formidable barriers against invaders while also highlighting the wealth and power of the occupants.
Aluminium Pivot Doors can be made in a wide range of designs, colours and sizes, to create a truly impressive entrance to a home. Visit our gallery for inspiration.
Pivot Entrance Doors
The size of a front door can dramatically influence the perception of a building’s scale. A massive door can overshadow the surrounding architecture, creating a striking visual contrast. This scale is an Architects dream when designing a state-of-the art build and can evoke feelings of awe and respect, reinforcing the building’s significance.
Pivot entrance doors can be crafted from various materials, each adding to the door’s character and functionality. A glass pivot front door, like this one below, creates a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces.
This huge front door has been made-to-measure to the homeowner’s preferred design and includes a full height recessed handle complete with an LED light. The inherent strength of pivot door frames combined with a clever pivot mechanism means that a Spitfire pivot door can carry heavy external finishes like laminated glass with ease.
Find out about our Pivot Door Augmented Reality App where you can design a huge front door for your home.
Style and Architecture of Huge Front Doors
The style of a huge front door should complement the overall architecture of the building. Traditional homes might feature ornate, carved wooden doors, while modern homes could opt for minimalist aluminium door designs with clean lines. Craftsman-style homes often display doors with intricate panelling and natural wood finishes.
Spitfire pivot doors are all made-to-measure and can include a fabulous wood effect finish with CNC grooves within the aluminium or glass, to create a panelling effect. Arched aluminium door frames are a possibility, with every door being made to bespoke sizes for individual projects.
The Emotional Impact of an Oversized Front Door
Oversized front doors can evoke a range of emotions. The act of entering through a large door can be thrilling, creating a moment of pause before stepping into a new environment. This experience can be amplified by the door’s design; for instance, a sleek glass pivot front door may invoke feelings of modernity and openness.
There are over 30 customisable pivot doors to choose from, each available as a huge door in sizes up to 2,000mm wide and up to 3,000mm high. Some pivot door designs can be made up to 4,000mm wide, depending on their specification.
Contact Spitfire Doors to discuss your huge front door requirements
Oversized Doors Security
Oversized doors require robust locking mechanisms to ensure security and the materials used must be durable enough to withstand potential threats. Spitfire Pivot entrance doors are fitted with premium quality hinges and high-quality locks, ensuring the doors meet RC2 and RC3 levels of security to keep your home safe.
Huge front doors are more than mere entry points; they are powerful architectural elements that convey identity and welcome guests. These doors can create lasting impressions and make them a captivating topic in the realm of architecture and design.
As you approach a huge front door, take a moment to appreciate the craftsmanship, the materials, and the stories that these doors tell. They are not just thresholds; they are gateways to new experiences and reflections of personality. Whether they welcome you into a home or a place of business, huge front doors remain a vital element of the built environment, inviting us to step inside and explore what lies beyond. Visit our photo gallery for inspiration.
Contact Spitfire Doors’ Customer Service Team to discuss the most suitable huge front door for your unique project. Call 01625 412570 or email enquiries@spitfiredoors.co.uk
At Spitfire Doors, we specialise in bespoke front doors that can be custom-built up to an impressive 3 metres in height and 2 metres in width. This makes our huge front doors some of the largest available in the UK, perfect for those looking to make a grand entrance.
The maximum size for a Spitfire front door is 3m in height and 2m in width. Our unique design and engineering allow us to offer doors of this scale without compromising on security or functionality.
Front doors can vary in size, but with Spitfire Doors, you can achieve sizes up to 3m high and 2m wide. Our aluminium doors are custom-made to fit the specific measurements and design preferences of your property, ensuring both durability and visual impact.
Yes, absolutely. At Spitfire Doors, we specialise in custom front doors and can manufacture extra-large doors tailored to your requirements. Whether you’re looking for increased height, width, or a unique design, we can create the perfect door to suit your vision.
An oversized door is generally any entrance door larger than the UK’s typical dimensions, which range from 1981mm to 2134mm in height and 762mm to 914mm in width. At Spitfire Doors, we classify our doors as oversized when they exceed these standard dimensions, offering options up to 3m in height and 2m in width.
In the UK, certain building regulations apply to new front doors, particularly around thermal performance and fire safety. Spitfire Doors comply with these regulations, and our team can provide guidance to ensure that your new huge front door meets all necessary standards.
The largest standard front door size in the UK is typically around 2134mm (7 feet) high by 914mm (3 feet) wide. For those seeking more dramatic dimensions, Spitfire Doors offers much larger customisable options.
A large entrance door is generally over 914mm wide in the UK, though Spitfire Doors can craft custom doors up to 2 metres wide, providing the ultimate in grandeur and accessibility.
Most homes in the UK have one main front door, but regulations generally require at least two exterior doors for safe exit points in case of emergency. Our huge front doors can be installed as a primary entrance, complemented by additional exterior doors if required.
Is your front door ready for winter?
With a fall in temperature, the colder winter months are approaching. Are you and your home ready for winter? The temperatures dropping in winter accompanied by a rise in humidity can quickly affect the entrance to your home, so now is a good time to check how your entrance and its surroundings are prepared for the cold season.
HOW TO CHECK IF YOUR FRONT DOOR IS READY FOR WINTER
Do you proactively maintain your front door on a regular basis, or are you more likely to carry out any repairs when they become noticeable? We would recommend that you prepare your home for winter by ensuring that your entrance door is safe and in full working order.
How to carry out checks:
- Carry out a detailed inspection of the front door leaf itself
- Oil any hooks and locks
- Test for any draughts or water ingress
- Consider if there is adequate lighting around the entrance and hallway
- Review accessories around the entrance to your home, such as a mat, umbrella holder or coat hangers
- Check for security - would your home deter an opportunist burglar?
IS YOUR FRONT DOOR WELL INSULATED - TO HELP WITH ENERGY BILLS?
Poor thermal insulation of windows and front doors is one of the main causes of energy loss in a home and, as a result, higher heating costs. More heat can be lost through poorly insulated windows and doors than through an uninsulated façade. High-quality and, above all, well-installed front doors that provide good insulation are therefore an excellent investment that pays off in winter.
HOW TO CHECK THE INSULATION OF YOUR FRONT DOOR
When considering the insulation of an entrance door, we need to take into account the insulation of the door leaf itself, the side seals and cills which prevent warm air escaping from a property and also prevent the penetration of cold air into the interior of your home. The thickness of the door itself and the material your front door is made from can affect the quality of the door seal. If you feel that your door is letting in the cold air, is it time to consider upgrading is and replacing your front door?
You can check the effectiveness of the gasket seal on the side and bottom of the front door. If the door is worn and bent, and no longer fits perfectly into the frame, air will escape through the gaps in both directions.
If you can feel a draught coming in through your front door, it can help to use a torch to carry out a full investigation. Point the beam of light at the edges of the door and observe if light enters through one of the openings. Alternatively, you can do the same with a sheet of paper and see if you can slide it between the door and the frame, if you can, this could be where the draught is coming from. One of the classic methods of leak testing is a test with a lighter, as you bring the lighter closer to the sides of the door, observe how the frame flickers. This way, you can find out where the pull of the flame occurs which can help identify where additional seals are needed. For example in the form of:
- rubber textile seals
- foam seals
- Textile stopper or
- Cill seals with brush.
It is definitely worth checking whether the door sits correctly within its' frame, and whether it closes and locks easily.
IS IT TIME TO BUY A NEW FRONT DOOR FOR YOUR HOME?
If your front door looks tired and old, it could be time to consider replacing it with a new front door which will be energy efficient, with excellent U-Values to keep your home warm and your energy bills lower.
A high-quality front door like the Spitfire Doors S-500 Series, will keep out the noise and cold and reduce your heating costs. A new front door will be more secure with high quality multi-point locks to keep out would-be intruders, whilst visually brightening up both the exterior and interior of your home and adding kerb appeal to your home. If you want to save on heating costs, installing a new front door is a good place to start.
DESIGN YOUR DREAM FRONT DOOR HERE
ALUMINIUM FRONT DOORS WILL LOOK GOOD AND PERFORM WELL FOR A NUMBER OF YEARS
The Spitfire Inotherm aluminum front door is well-known for its insulating properties, which is especially beneficial in the cold winter months. Aluminium doors do not twist and warp on hot sunny days, even at high temperatures, ensuring that the heat in your four walls will not escape thanks to special door fillers, triple glazing and vulcanized corners which create a water and airtight seal.
Our doors are powder coated in our own paint shop, offering additional protection against UV radiation. There is a huge range of RAL colours to choose from. You can design your bespoke front door using our online door configurator here.
A SECURE FRONT DOOR WILL PROTECT YOU EVEN ON DARKER WINTER EVENINGS
When the nights draw in and with fewer hours of daylight during autumn and winter, many people give more consideration to the security of their homes. To deter an opportunist burglar, having a secure aluminium front door is a great place to start. The Spitfire Inotherm S-500 front door meets both PAS 24 and RS3 levels of security to keep your property safe and secure.
IS THE EXTERIOR OF YOUR HOME SUFFICIENTLY ILLUMINATED?
If the outside of your home is well lit at night, potential burglars will have a harder time sneaking up to the door and trying to gain access. Whether the lighting is positioned to the side of the door or above the front door, the right lighting is likely to put off an intruder, helping to keep you safe in your home. Installing lights with a motion sensor will ensure the outside of your home is illuminated every time the light detects any movement.
IS YOUR DOOR LOCK STRONG AND SECURE?
When carrying out an inspection of your front door, check to see if any of the hinges or locks are rusty and ensure that the lock opens and closes smoothly. By ensuring that your door locks easily, you could prevent your front door being left unlocked unintentionally, making it easy for an opportune thief to gain access. The Spitfire Inotherm S-500 Series Doors lock automatically, as soon as they are closed.
If your lock is worn or is of poor quality, it could be time to upgrade your lock or door to ensure your home is secure. Most modern front doors will have a new multipoint locking system, which means that the door will be locked in several places along the side of the door. The Spitfire Inotherm door has a 5-point security lock as standard and meets PAS 24 security.
SAFETY AND CUTTING-EDGE TECHNOLOGY GO HAND IN HAND - AN INTRODUCTION TO INOSMART
Do you want to combine the security of your entrance with modern technology? Can you imagine the convenience of not having to look for keys every time you arrive home? Especially in winter, when we want to escape the cold and rain quickly, such a solution is worth its' weight in gold. In addition, it offers absolute security, as the door locks automatically every time it is closed.
Doors with the INOSMART system offer three types of opening:
- Fingerprint access
- NFC technology
- by entering a numerical code
The system is equipped with an advanced high-speed fingerprint reader that recognizes the fingerprint regardless of the position of the finger, but also detects changes and adapts to a specific fingerprint. The administration takes place via an app on a smartphone, which also logs attempts of any unauthorized access. Contact Spitfire Doors to find out more.
THE BEST PROTECTION FOR YOUR LOVED ONES AND YOUR PROPERTY - A BURGLAR-PROOF FRONT DOOR
Statistics show that most burglars still enter buildings through the front door.
For maximum security, care must be taken to ensure that it is protected as well as possible against burglary attempts. If you want to protect your home in winter and install a new entrance as part of the renovation, secure burglar-proof doors are something to be considered.
REGULAR MAINTENANCE OF FRONT DOORS - IS YOUR FRONT DOOR READY FOR WINTER?
Regular maintenance of your front door is essential. It only takes a few minutes to ensure that your door threshold remains free of grit and dirt. A simple wipe of the exterior of your door and some oiling of hinges and moving parts is recommended from time to time. Aluminium front doors are extremely resistant to winter conditions, but simple maintenance ensures a longer service life. Before winter, be sure to check the moving parts such as fittings and locks. Clean them first and then oil them as this will ensure easy closing and opening. Lubricating the lock should not be just a seasonal task; pay attention to regular lubrication, as this prolongs the service life.
DON'T FORGET ABOUT VENTILATION IN YOUR HOME
If you have chosen a well-sealed front door and windows for your home, it is important to ensure there is sufficient ventilation in the areas around the door and window. By opening your doors and windows for a few minutes every few days, this should ensure there is enough fresh air to keep the area free from mould or damp.
If you would like the opportunity to design your own front door, why not visit our door designer where you can choose from over 400 designs in a huge choice of colours and finishes. We also have a wide range of door handles to choose from.
If you would like to discuss a new front door for your home, please contact our Customer Services Team who will be happy to put you in touch with a design partner in your area. Call 01625 412570 or contact us here We look forward to hearing from you.
Changing trends in home design
Marjorie Calder, former property editor of a national newspaper, has worked with and around new home developers for over twenty years. She is now the proud owner of a c250 years old former coaching inn, which she and her husband have lovingly restored into a home.
As a former Homes and Property Editor of a national newspaper, I can confidently reveal that spending your working week visiting sensational showhomes almost inevitably makes coming back home a bit of a let-down.
I had only recently bought my first ever new-build when I took on the Property Editor’s job; an enviously sleek villa by an upmarket developer, set deep in a leafy suburb. And I had barely plumped the new cushions when the shine was stolen clean off my new, glazed cotton curtains, (In my defence, this WAS the ostentatious late nineties).
The designer, blush beige kitchen also began to look positively apologetic.
It seemed that ‘plum’ was the order of the day. And sparkles, Lots of sparkles. With every showhome I visited that year, I found my own home in bling-deficiency, causing an icy shame of inadequacy to creep over me.
Funnily enough, a similar thing happened when I first went on a “Girls’” trip to Florida a few years later. Being a working woman, I was a bit of a cuckoo in that nest and, when they all started comparing handbags, I found myself genuinely bewildered; not least since my generous lugger was full of practical things that ‘I might need’ on the flight, while their tiny clutches contained little more than a beautifully upholstered passport, keys and a lipstick.
The real point was though that, within three days I was on the same page. I truly felt I HAD to have the latest Kate Spade clutch in teal, or the LV tote in cobalt. I quickly came to believe that my life, or at the very least my social credibility depended on it.
Good marketing is a wonderful thing. It creates demand from desire, and desire through association with…. whatever presses your buttons.
So what’s new in 2022?
When I went to research this blog, I typed in “Interior design colour trends for 2022” and it came up with; “The key Spring 2022 hues are: Buttercream, Nature Brown, Green Quartz, Tech Blue, Dahlia Orange, Military Gold, and Pink Charlotte” (https://www.interiordesignmagazines.eu/2022-color-trends-for-interior-design)
Are you kidding me?
How am I supposed to decide if my signature look for 2022 is buttercream with, dahlia orange accents (and for the record, dahlias come in many colours) or military gold, whatever that is, edged in pink charlotte, (which I genuinely thought was a pudding).
And still, by next year, all will have gone the way of “plum” and “chintz”, requiring a total rethink and possibly extensive therapy bills. Spitfire Aluminium Front Doors are available in a wide range of colours and finishes, keeping up with the trends of 2022.
Substance over superficiality
Having worked with and around property developers for over twenty years, interior design trends come and go but, unlike changing a cushion or feature wallpaper, the things which make a desirable home stand the test of time, remain constant.
Where there is a feeling of love and security in a home, neither last year’s colourways nor even a stray sock will ever look out of place.
Where there is airy living space and good natural light to lift the spirits and energise the soul, or thoughtful mood lighting to cosy up winter evenings, then a home can feel like a true sanctuary.
And that mood starts even before you step over the threshold.
A stylish and solid entrance door speaks volumes about what lies behind. Contemporary or classic, timber or glazed; if the eyes are windows to the soul, your front door is a representation of the priorities and lifestyle which lies beyond.
Stylish, secure and long-lasting, aluminium doors are still a relative rarity in the UK. They cost more, for sure, but they are low maintenance, keep their looks over time and beautifully complement a wide range of construction and interior styles.
My conclusion is simple; style and substance work best when they work in harmony.
Spitfire Doors offers a range of over sixty aluminium front door styles. Each design is unique to Spitfire and comes in a range of opulent finishes, including timber, carbon-fibre, glazed and ceramic panelling. You can design your unique front door here.
Spitfire exterior doors offer solid aluminium construction of both door and frame. Light, safe and incredibly durable, aluminium doors are the preferred choice of architects working with discerning clients.
Please visit our online Gallery here. Our range is also available through a network of design and installation partners’ showrooms all across the UK and Ireland.
If you are looking for a new aluminium front door for your home, please get in touch with Spitfire Doors on 01625 412570 or contact us here. You can also visit our door designer to design your perfect front door. We will then put you in touch with the nearest Spitfire Doors partner, who can talk you through the features and benefits of Spitfire front doors.
Doors Showroom London now open
Spitfire Doors Showroom London is now open.
Spitfire Doors has opened a flagship London showroom in Sutton. We have on display more than 8 of our most popular and high-end aluminium front doors, suitable for luxury homes throughout London and the South.
Spitfire Showrooms - Spitfire Doors
Doors Showroom London - which doors are on display?
Our Doors showroom London includes an extensive range of front door designs in varied colours. On display are some of the most popular styles as well as some funky door designs. Selected doors have the latest in technology, including fingerprint scanners which can be operated via a Smart App and recessed door handles with LED’s which stay on 24 hours a day.
Open five days week our Doors Showroom London contains 13 luxury front doors all in one large room so that you can wander around the doors and get a feel for your preferred design. Each of our doors has a low threshold for ease of access. We also have on display a front door with wheelchair access.
Some of the designs include:
- A combination of a walnut effect and anthracite grey externally / white internally
- A textured black finish externally / anthracite grey matt finish internally
- A combination of a split oak grey and black matt finish externally / white gloss internally
- Metallic anthracite grey externally with decorative glass / designer light rush finish internally
- A set of double doors in dark grey externally with plenty of bling / black gloss finish internally
Visit our door designer to design your bespoke door
Some of the 13 doors on display in Sutton, London demonstrate:
- A day latch option
- A thumb turn on the inside of the door
- A letterbox fitted within a bespoke glazed side panel
- Inosmart fingerprint scanner which stores up to 100 different fingerprints
- Decorative triple glazed, laminated safety glass
- Swarovski crystals
- LED lighting
- Pivot Doors which are a whopping 2 metres wide
There is no better way to decide on the best front door for your home than to see the doors in person.
We welcome visitors on Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm. Why not get in touch to make an appointment? Or watch this virtual showroom tour.
What is the widest front door you can get?
Spitfire Pivot Doors can be made up to 2 metres wide and up to 3 metres high. We have two Pivot Doors on display at our showroom in London.
Spitfire S-500 Signature Series Doors can be made in bespoke sizes from 850mm wide up to 1250mm wide. The doors on display are approximately 1100mm wide. Designs incorporating side panels are even wider.
How do I choose the right front door for my home?
The Customer Services team at each of our showrooms will be happy to discuss the features and benefits of our doors to help you decide which front door will be the most suitable for you. However, if you would prefer to walk around the London showroom and look at the doors at your leisure, we won’t put you under any pressure.
Designs can incorporate Swarovski crystals within the door sash itself or within the glazing panel. If you are looking for a little sparkle within your door, we can show you a sample of the sprinkle effect paint finish which adds a subtle sparkle when a light shines upon it. Spitfire Doors Signature Series Aluminium front doors are the most luxurious, stylish and secure doors in Europe, with over 400 door designs to choose from.
Visit our door designer to design your unique front door.
SPITFIRE DOORS - FINISHES AVAILABLE - WATCH VIDEO
Doors Showroom London - Aluminium Pivot Doors on display
We have on display two impressive Pivot Doors at 2 metres wide, both with designer finishes to stimulate your imagination. One has a dark concrete finish externally with an ice touch finish internally. The second Pivot Door features a fabulous black glass finish externally (pictured above) combined with a Corten finish internally. Both doors look super. Watch a short video
Spitfire Aluminium Pivot Doors really do create the wow factor. There is a design available to complement all styles of home. Every door is incredibly secure and achieves excellent U-Values.
Call us to help create your Pivot Door.
Can I see a variety of door handles on display in London?
When choosing a door handle it can be helpful to see and touch the handles, to see which is the best fit for you and your home. At our showroom in Sutton, London, we have a variety of external door handles on display, including:
- A long square vertical pull bar with a contemporary matt finish
- A jet-black recessed handle, complete with LED’s
- A horizontal square polished pull bar
- A vertical stainless pull bar recessed into the door sash
- A black square vertical pull bar (pictured)
- A classic round polished pull bar on a set of double doors
- A curved round matt stainless handle
- A 1400mm square pull bar
- A Silver Anodised recessed handle with LED’s running the full height of our Spitfire Pivot Door
If you call into our Doors showroom London, you will see a variety of aluminium door designs. Some doors combine a wood effect with anthracite grey and others feature decorative glass with clear or satin lines.
Spitfire Doors understands that buying a new aluminium front door for your home is a big investment. Our customer service team will help guide you through all of the options to help you come to a decision as to which front door is most suitable for your home. Every door comes with a 10-year guarantee.
Contact Spitfire Doors on 01625 412570.
Which are the best front doors for your home?
When it comes to deciding on which is the best front door for your home, it can help to know the main differences between an Aluminium Front Door and a Composite Door.
If you visit a showroom and see an Aluminium Front Door alongside a Composite Door, you will quickly notice that the features of an Aluminium door are very different from a composite. Both doors will usually be painted using a powder coat process but only the aluminium door will have a marine grade paint finish as standard. This ensures the external finish will withstand extreme weather conditions and it will not fade. The other major difference in paint finish is that a composite door will have either a PVC or fibreglass skin and the paint applied will usually make it shiny. The process for painting aluminium is more sophisticated and the end result provided can be gloss, matt, textured or even wood, concrete or bronze effect. Contact Spitfire Doors to discuss our Aluminium Front Doors
The skin surface of a composite door is usually faux grained to make the door look like timber, although there are new smooth looking PVC skins becoming available. You will notice that the faux grain on composites does not all run in one direction, as the upright panels typically run vertically and the horizontal panels have grain running horizontally, again to replicate timber but they are no good for creating a contemporary style door. Aluminium skins on aluminium entrance doors are totally flat and regular and have the benefit of being able to accept many different types of finish or aluminium strips and numerals for example.
If security is your main concern, compare the thickness and stability of the door sash when the door is open. Typically, a composite door sash is 44mm thick and an aluminium door anything from 80mm up to a massive 95mm. The inherent strength of the slab/sash, the external skin material choice and the hinges used, are the key factors in guaranteeing security. Cheap hinges usually mean an insecure door.
You also need to satisfy yourself about functionality and reliability, particularly in summer months when the door will be subjected to direct sunlight and higher temperatures externally. According to hundreds of posts on The Window Fitters Forum (a forum for professional installers to share their views) composite doors with GRP or PVC skins really struggle in the heat. They tend to warp, bow and twist particularly if the door is a dark colour.
Aluminium Front Doors are incredibly strong and highly secure, with substantial aluminium sections and thick aluminium external skins. These elements combine to prevent doors twisting and warping. Aluminium Doors have been popular in properties throughout Europe and the Middle East for many years, because they can cope with the extremely high temperatures.
The UK market is still getting used to the idea of having an aluminium front door and it is true that the up-front cost is higher than a composite door, but the lifetime cost will probably be lower. In Europe, composite doors are only sold in the UK and Ireland, but they have no appeal in Europe because of their performance values.
Composite doors are a relatively low-cost replacement or new build solution and most composite doors will offer PAS24 security accreditation, as aluminium doors do. The actual materials used and general construction properties of an aluminium door means they will easily outperform and outlast a composite door. And if you are looking for a genuine contemporary finish, they are much more suitable than a composite.
How much will a new front door cost?
You might be surprised to know that there isn’t much of an up-front cost difference between for example a bespoke Spitfire Aluminium Door and a Composite Door.
Composite Doors cost more than uPVC front doors as they offer greater features and benefits and likewise, an Aluminium front door will cost probably 30-50% more than a Composite Door as the quality of the hardware, hinges, locks and materials are higher grade.
As every Spitfire S-200 door is made to your bespoke design, in your choice of colour with a wide range of handle options, it can take a little longer to manufacture the door. Every Spitfire Aluminium Front Door which features glass within the design will be triple glazed with a security laminate, composite doors are only fitted with double glazed toughened units.
Spitfire Aluminium Front Doors are incredibly strong so they can be made up to 1150mm wide by 2250mm high, to create a really grand entrance with stunning kerb appeal. If smaller doors are needed, they can also be made in sizes starting from 850mm wide and 1920mm high, so they are suitable for cottages and farmhouses. Composite door usually have a maximum width of 960mm and maximum height of 2000mm.
Every Spitfire aluminium front door will offer excellent thermal performance, achieving a maximum U-value of 0.9 W/m²K down to 0.6 W/m²K, regardless of their size, colour or design. Composite doors do not offer the same fabulous level of thermal performance and usually offer between 1.1 W/m²K and 1.4 W/m²K.
Aluminium Spitfire Doors have a life expectancy of 30 years. The hardware, including the handles, hinges and steel trims used in the manufacture of our Aluminium Doors is of high quality, which will make the doors more expensive than an average composite door. Visit the Spitfire Doors gallery of images.
Which door is best for me?
Whilst up-front cost is often a consideration when choosing a new front or back door, there is so much more to consider before making your decision. Being able to compare the security, colour options, styles, hardware options, quality and weathering properties is important when deciding which entrance door will be best for you. The comparison table below might help.
| Spitfire S-200 Aluminium Doors | Typical Composite Door | |
| U Value
|
0.9 W/m2K | 1.4 W/m2K |
| Security | PAS24 option
|
PAS 24 option
|
| Doc Q Compliant | Yes
|
Yes |
| Designs | Over 60 customisable designs | 20 designs |
| Sizes |
Up to 1150mm x 2250mm
|
Typically 960mm x 1978mm |
| Colours | Huge range of Marine Grade RAL colours, Wood Effects, Corten, Copper, Concrete, Bronze effects
Different colour available for the door and frame
|
18 colours, limited choice
Different colour available for the door and frame |
| Finishes
|
Matt, Gloss, Textured finishes. Decorative grooves, numerals and Steel inserts
|
Woodgrain effect and some composites now offer a smooth finish as an optional extra |
| Door thickness | 80mm | 48mm |
| Hardware
|
Round, Square or Oval Pullbars in different lengths | Round Pullbar
Lever Handles Finger Pull Letterbox Door Knocker
Choice of colour finishes |
| Details | Flush sash and frame externally | Flush sash except for glazed door designs |
| Glass | Triple Glazed laminated
Optional obscured glass with clear lines |
Six glass designs, toughened double glazing |
| Side lights and top lights | Yes | Yes |
| Optional | Steel inserts within door sash
Day latch Double Doors |
If you would like to discuss your individual requirements further, please contact our Customer Services Team who will be delighted to help on 01625 412570. If you would like to design your own front door, please visit the Door Designer.
Everything you need to know about Passive House in 2020
Looking to make your home more energy efficient? Or, perhaps you’re looking to build a Passive House from scratch?
With the number of Passive House standard builds increasing around the world year on year we thought we would help you understand the fantastic concept and why your next build should be Passive!
This guide will break down some common myths and all the benefits of passive and why it's leading the way in architectural technology.
Ultimately, we aim to help you make the right choice for your project.
WHAT IS PASSIVE HOUSE?
Passive House (known across Europe as Passivhaus) is not a brand but instead a construction standard given to properties and designs that are energy efficient, offer exceptional air quality and ensure a small carbon footprint.
Originating in Germany in 1988, it's the result of the vision to benefit the planet and its habitants, through creating low energy properties that offer comfort and remarkable air quality and ventilation, for an affordable price without sacrificing on architecture and design.
Passive houses require 90% less energy than standard builds when heating and cooling.
In recent years, the concept has gained more recognition.
Today it holds its own specific certified building standard, maintained in Germany through the Passivhaus Institut, with over 60,000 certified builds worldwide.
CHARACTERISTICS
- High levels of insulation
Efficient insulation is identified as the most important feature of a passive house.
Insulation must be bound around the exterior envelope of the building and beneath the concrete slab, creating a barrier between outdoor and indoor spaces and temperatures.
This maintains even temperatures throughout the year and sees buildings act almost “passively”.
Climate conditions of a build establish the correct type and level of insulation to use.
Well-insulated homes are also proven to have superior weatherproofing and soundproofing.
- No air leaks
In order to create exceptional air quality and a fresh air supply system, passive structures obtain airtight construction within the external envelope of a building.
This prevents moist room air, mitigating the chances of mould and its negative effects on air quality and building damage.
- Absent thermal bridges
Thermal bridges refer to the area of a building that has greater heat transfer and frequently occur when a break or puncture is present in the envelope of the building.
In a passive house, thermal bridges must be mitigated as much as possible, through the careful and considerate planning and execution of the building’s corners, edges and connections.
- High-efficiency doors and windows
Selecting the correct doors and windows is essential when taking steps to achieve a low-energy building.
The effectivity of doors and windows in a passive house lies in its glazing and frame technology.
Despite being seen as opposing, Passive House windows execute 2 roles. Firstly, they reduce heat loss, and secondly, they have the ability to increase heat gain.
BENEFITS
- Comfortable
Passive houses maximise comfort for all.
By heating ‘passively’, these builds provide excellent comfort levels that are consistent from room to room by keeping temperatures at the optimal level in both the summer and winter seasons, without heating or cooling systems.
Such builds also provide inhabitants with a constant supply of high quality fresh, dust and pollen free air.
- Innovative and individual
With over 40,000 certified builds worldwide and more currently under construction, this building standard is driving modern building innovation.
By demanding no set construction methods, Passive House standards give power to designers, architects and engineers.
- Sustainable
Passive House standards provide a noble way to contribute to the protection of the environment and climate change.
Compared to generic new builds, passive houses require 90% less energy.
Passive House standards offer a way to preserve non-renewable resources including gas and oil. By using reliable and renewable energy sources including the sun, occupants and everyday appliances to heat the build. Find out about net zero homes
- Energy efficient and affordable
The Passive House building standard ensures high quality builds.
As well as saving money on expensive state of the art heating and cooling systems, Passive House accredited insulation and the use of solar power generates lower energy bills and running costs.
Some Passive House standard builds have also been seen to achieve the green design ‘gold standard’, resulting in residents paying no utility bills – at all.
PASSIVE HOUSE MYTHS
Let’s bust some Passive House myths!
- You have to keep doors and windows closed in a Passive House
The most common confusion surrounding Passive houses is that you cannot open the windows.
The Passive House Institute state that every build should be fitted with fully functioning windows.
Instead their necessity to be opened is reduced as the advanced ventilation system used in Passive House ensures the right amount of fresh air enters the building.
- Passive houses are not aesthetically pleasing
Passive houses come in a range of shapes, sizes and styles.
Passive houses are not a design concept, but instead a building standard.
Therefore, Passive houses can be made to look how you want! Giving you creative power to make your own unique build just how you want.
- Existing builds cannot be refurbished to Passive House standards
Despite being a challenge to achieve the complete building standard, Passive House technology can be used to significantly reduce a buildings energy demand and usage, such as by using triple glazed Passive House accredited doors and windows.
In 2010 the EnerPHit standard was introduced to recognise energy efficient builds where the full Passive House standard could not be achieved.
Based on the these standards, EnerPHit guarantees the energy demand by the property and its quality is fit for a green future through the use of energy efficient technology and components.
Take the steps to the Passive House standard
Knowing who to turn to when taking the steps to make your next build Passive House certified can be confusing.
Here at Spitfire Doors our S-500 range of doors are the perfect first step to reduce your energy use and help you save money.
Spitfire doors have:
- U value of 0.6 W/m²K
- Very thick, thermally enhanced door slabs
- Excellent weather seals and thresholds
- Outstanding materials used in construction
Find out more about our range of doors.
Contact Spitfire Doors to discuss our wide range of doors. We look forward to speaking with you.
