Introduction to Secure by Design Doors
At Peterborough Doors, we know how much our customers value safety, security, and peace of mind when it comes to protecting their Huntingdon homes. We are also extremely proud to offer some of the most secure door solutions on the market. That’s why we’re excited to dive into Secure by Design doors—a smart choice for any homeowner or business owner in the Huntingdon or Peterborough area’s looking for enhanced protection.
Secure by Design doors aren’t just about strength; they’re about reassurance. Designed to meet rigorous industry standards, these doors focus on creating a solid barrier to deter potential burglars. In this guide, we’ll break down the details and showcase the benefits of composite and UPVC options, two of the most popular door materials we install right here in the Huntingdon local area.
What is Secure by Design?
The Secure by Design initiative, or SBD for short, is a UK police-backed standard that ensures products like doors and windows have been tested and certified for strength and security. The scheme is all about “designing out crime,” making it harder for intruders to access your property. Secure by Design certification means the product resists forced entry, covers vulnerabilities like glazing panels, and meets strict durability standards.
At Peterborough Doors, we work with trusted manufacturers whose doors meet this high benchmark. Whether it’s a composite front door or a UPVC back door, our Secure by Design products ensure you’re getting the best mix of modern design, top-tier materials, and superior locking systems.
Importance of Secure by Design Doors
In Huntingdon and Peterborough and the surrounding areas, we understand that home security is a top priority for families, landlords, and businesses alike. Homeowners face the constant challenge of protecting their assets while maintaining aesthetics. With Secure by Design doors, you’re not just upgrading your property—you’re investing in long-term burglary prevention.
Statistics show that many burglars look for vulnerabilities in door design, such as weak locks or brittle materials. Secure by Design certification eliminates these weaknesses by focusing on multi-point locking mechanisms, reinforced frames, and high-performance materials. Choosing a Secure by Design door gives you a reliable deterrent to crime and peace of mind for years to come.
Types of Secure by Design Doors
Let’s dive into two of the most popular and practical types of Secure by Design doors: composite doors and UPVC doors. They’re both fantastic for boosting security and improving your home’s appearance.
Composite Front Doors
Composite doors are a favourite among Huntingdon homeowners—and for good reason. These doors are constructed from a mix of materials, including wood, insulating foam, glass-reinforced plastic (GRP), and UPVC. The result is a durable yet attractive door that’s hard to beat for security.
Secure by Design composite doors feature solid cores, reinforced hardware, and top-of-the-line locking systems. They’re designed to withstand weathering and forced entry, which makes them a top choice for front doors. With a wide range of colours and finishes available, you can customise your door to suit your home without compromising safety.
UPVC Front and Back Doors
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly yet secure option, UPVC doors are an excellent choice. Their lightweight design doesn’t just make them cost-effective—it also enables us to fit them with multiple reinforcements to boost their security profile.
UPVC front and back doors are fitted with steel reinforcements and multi-point locks, which provide excellent burglary resistance. These doors are especially suited to back entrances, patios, or even garages where added safety is important. Plus, UPVC is highly weather-resistant, making it an ideal material for the ever-changing Huntingdon climate.
Benefits of Composite and UPVC Doors
When it comes to Secure by Design doors, both composite and UPVC options offer strong advantages beyond security.
Durability and Maintenance
Both composite and UPVC doors are designed with durability in mind. Composite doors, thanks to their layered construction, are outstanding at resisting impact and wear over time. Likewise, modern UPVC doors with steel cores can last for years with minimal upkeep.
Maintenance is a breeze. All it takes is a simple wipe-down with soapy water to keep composite and UPVC doors looking their best. Their advanced finishes protect against fading, warping, and cracking, which is especially useful in Huntingdon’s mix of sunny summers and damp winters.
Energy Efficiency
With the cost of energy on everyone’s mind, the thermal efficiency of your doors matters more than ever. Composite doors are some of the best insulators around, thanks to their layered design and insulated core. In contrast, UPVC doors offer multi-chamber profiles to improve energy retention.
Installing Secure by Design doors also helps reduce drafts and heat loss—leading to lower heating bills and a more comfortable home. That’s a win for both your wallet and the environment.
Features of Secure by Design Doors
Secure by Design certification guarantees more than just sturdy materials—it’s about the small details that protect your property from intruders.
Locking Mechanisms
Secure by Design doors feature advanced locking systems designed to withstand tampering. Most doors come with multi-point locking mechanisms, which secure the door at several positions when locked. This makes it far harder for burglars to use brute force to gain entry.
Some models also feature anti-snap locks, a common protection against lock-snapping—a method used by criminals to break into traditional locks quickly. Our team at Peterborough Doors always ensures every lock is both high-security and user-friendly.
Reinforced Frames and Glazing
The frame of a Secure by Design door is just as important as the door itself. These doors are fitted with reinforced steel or aluminium frames to boost resilience against forced entry.
If your door includes glazed panels, Secure by Design certification ensures the glass is toughened, laminated, or double-glazed to resist shattering. You get the benefit of added light in your home without sacrificing security.
Choosing the Right Secure by Design Door
When it’s time to pick your Secure by Design door, consider your property’s unique needs. Take into account where the door will be installed, the level of security you want, and your style preferences.
For front doors, composite options often offer the best blend of strength, appearance, and customisability. On the other hand, UPVC doors are ideal for back entrances or budget-conscious homeowners who still want excellent security. At Peterborough Doors, we offer a wide range of finishes, colours, and glazing options, so you can choose a door that suits your property and personal taste.
Don’t forget to think about future-proofing. Investing in top-quality locks and durable materials now will save you money on replacements further down the line. If you’re unsure where to start, our team of experts is happy to chat and recommend the best option for your Huntingdon home or business.
Installation and Maintenance Tips
The best door in the world won’t perform properly without correct installation. At Peterborough Doors, we take pride in offering professional installation services to ensure your Secure by Design door lives up to its full potential. Proper fitting is key to maintaining the product’s strength and energy efficiency.
Once your new door is installed, it’s important to stay on top of maintenance. That doesn’t mean it has to be complicated—regular cleaning of the door surface, frame, and locks will prevent dirt and debris from building up. For locks, a lubricant like graphite powder can keep them functioning smoothly.
If your door experiences heavy wear, such as exposure to extreme weather, inspect it regularly for signs of damage. Quick repairs or adjustments will prevent minor problems from worsening over time.
Conclusion: Enhancing Security with Secure by Design Doors
Secure by Design doors are an excellent investment for anyone looking to improve home or business security in the Huntingdon or Peterborough area. By choosing either a composite or UPVC option, you’re not just committing to better safety—you’re also enhancing your property’s style and energy efficiency.
At Peterborough Doors, we’re proud to provide a local service you can trust. With years of experience in fitting Secure by Design doors, we understand the needs of our community. Whether you’re upgrading your front door or boosting the security of your back entrance, we’re here to help every step of the way.
Ready to enhance your home’s safety with a Secure by Design door? Get in touch with Peterborough Doors today, and let us help you find the perfect fit for your property. Security starts at the door—make yours one you can rely on.
