The Tools and Steps Required to Install Composite Doors Correctly

Since their appearance in the mid-1990s, composite doors have become a permanent feature of many properties, and with good reason. Their unique composition with layers of advanced materials means they are far superior to traditional wooden doors in several ways, including: 

• Durability, strength, and longevity—Able to withstand even the harshest conditions, composite doors remain like new for decades and resist swelling and warping.
• Unrivalled security—The inherent strength of the materials used to create composite doors makes them sensationally secure. When combined with premium locking systems, they are almost impervious to attack. 
• Energy savings—The thermal efficiency of composite doors is unmatched, and they are sensational for keeping your home warm in winter and cool in summer. This reduces the energy required to maintain an even temperature and reduces overall costs. 
• Minimal maintenance requirements—Due to the sheer rugged nature of composite doors, they require little to no maintenance to remain in perfect working order. 
• Versatile appearance—Composite doors' colours, styles, and finishes can match existing aesthetics or provide a superb contrast. 

Proper installation is critical to composite doors' flawless performance and longevity, and this article examines the tools and explains the techniques involved. 

The Tools Required for Effective Composite Door Installation

Any premium composite door provider like Rock Solid Doors will offer installation services, and the tools they will bring for the job are as follows:

• Hammer action electric drill 
• Stanley knife and crowbar
• Chisel and rubber mallet
• Tape measure and spirit levels (long and short)
• Screwdrivers and Allen keys (3 and 4mm)
• Hammer and saw
• Fixing brackets
• Foam and silicone sealants with applicator
• Appropriate screws

If you are undertaking the installation yourself, consider purchasing the best quality tools you can or find a company that can lease you the ones you need for the duration of the job. 

Some Health and Safety Advice Before You Begin

When undertaking any form of construction or installation, it is critical to follow safety best practices and recommendations, including:

• Only lift using the legs, never the back. Do not attempt to lift something alone that requires two people.
• Always exercise caution with sharp tools and implements, returning them to safe storage after each use.
• Comply with the manufacturer’s instructions for any tool and never exceed its capacity.
• Use residual current device (RCD) breakers to avoid dangerous electrical discharges.
• Ensure the work area is clean and tidy, and no pets or children can enter unexpectedly.

Preparatory steps

The following steps will be second nature to professional composite door installers, and they may skip some, but if you are attempting to install one yourself, please follow them carefully. This task is for at least two people and will likely be impossible alone. 

• Read the instructions carefully and walk through each step before commencing.
• Leave the protective wrapper on the door for now. 
• Double-check the specifications and locate any listed hinges and additional items.
• Ensure that the structure to support the door includes an appropriately sturdy lintel.
• Insert the new door in place to be sure it fits the opening perfectly.
• Remove the packaging and wrappings carefully.

Remove the Existing Door

• Make sure you have space to stand the door once removed and have previously determined whether it will be preserved or disposed of.
• Carefully remove the fitting screws. If these are seized and the door will not be retained, you may prefer to saw through the wooden frame and remove it entirely, as the new door has a high-tech frame included.
• Scrape the edges of the hole with the chisel's flat edge to remove debris and hardened sealant.

Installing the New Composite Door

• Insert the new frame into the space and use the spirit level to square it.
• Use the included wedges and fixings to secure the frame and maintain its position.
• Mark and drill the holes for the fixing brackets and install the frame using the recommended screws.
• Seal the edges with low-expanding foam filler and silicone.

The key to success in this step is taking time and working methodically. If unsure, stop the process and reassess or seek assistance. 

Make Final Adjustments

• Make minor, incremental adjustments to ensure the door swings freely and closes fully.
• Check that the drainage channels are not blocked by silicone.
• Install any included cosmetic trimmings.

Conclusion

When installing composite doors, it is vital to have all the right tools and follow the steps above closely. When correctly installed, a composite door will provide you with stunning looks, security, and energy efficiency for many years. They represent the pinnacle of modern doors and are the perfect choice in almost any scenario.

Contact Us

If you want to learn more about composite doors and our incredible range at Rock Solid Doors, please get in touch with the team today. We have all the experience and knowledge you need and a proud record of supplying and installing premium quality products across London and the Home Counties.