Investing in a new composite door is a significant decision for any homeowner. One of the key factors to consider when making this choice is the guarantee offered by manufacturers. Let’s delve into the world of composite door guarantees to help you make an informed decision.
For tips on keeping your composite door looking its best, check out our guide on how to clean a composite door.
Curious about the investment required for a high-quality composite door? Learn more about composite door costs and what factors influence pricing.
The Standard Guarantee Period
Astraframe offers a 10-year guarantee on their composite doors. This decade-long assurance covers the most critical aspects of your door’s performance and appearance.
What’s Typically Covered?
Door Slab
The main body of your composite door, known as the slab, is usually guaranteed against:
- Warping
- Twisting
- Bowing
- Cracking
- Delamination
- Discolouration
These issues are rare but can occur due to extreme weather conditions or manufacturing defects. A solid guarantee ensures you’re protected against such problems.
Glazing Units
Double or triple-glazed units within your composite door are typically covered for 10 years. This guarantee usually protects against condensation forming between the panes, which can obscure your view and reduce energy efficiency.
Frame
The door frame, often made of uPVC, is also generally included in the 10-year guarantee. This covers issues like discolouration or structural defects.
Hardware: A Shorter Guarantee Period
While the door itself is covered for a decade, the hardware components often come with a shorter guarantee period. At Astraframe, for instance:
- Handles
- Hinges
- Locks
- Other hardware elements
These are covered for 12 months from the date of installation. This shorter period reflects the fact that these components experience more wear and tear through daily use.
What’s Not Covered?
It’s important to understand what’s typically excluded from composite door guarantees:
- Accidental damage: Damage caused by impacts, scratches, or other accidents is usually not covered.
- Improper maintenance: Failing to clean and maintain your door as per manufacturer instructions may void the guarantee.
- Unauthorised modifications: Any alterations not approved by the manufacturer could invalidate your guarantee.
- Normal wear and tear: Gradual deterioration from regular use is generally not covered.
- Labour costs: Most guarantees, including Astraframe’s, cover parts only. Installation or repair labour is typically not included.
Making a Claim
If you need to make a claim under your guarantee, follow these steps:
- Email [email protected]
- Provide details of the issue, including photographs if possible.
- Have your proof of purchase and guarantee documentation ready.
- Allow for an inspection if required.
Why Guarantees Matter
A comprehensive guarantee not only provides peace of mind but also reflects the manufacturer’s confidence in their product. It’s a testament to the quality and durability of your composite door.
Conclusion
When choosing a composite door, the guarantee should be a key consideration alongside design and security features. With Astraframe offering a robust 10-year guarantee on the door slab, frame, and glazing, you can feel confident in the longevity and performance of your investment. Remember, while hardware components have a shorter coverage period, this is standard across the industry due to their nature of use.
By understanding what’s covered, for how long, and how to maintain your door, you can enjoy your stylish and secure composite door for many years to come. Always discuss the specifics of the guarantee with your supplier to ensure you have all the information you need to make the best choice for your home.