Question 1

How long is the Rockdoor guarantee?

Accepted Answer

10 years on the door slab, outerframe and double-glazed unit. 5 years on sideframe profiles, sideframe glass and locking mechanisms. 2 years on door furniture (handles, letterplates, hinges). There's also a £2,000 lock snapping guarantee on doors ordered after February 2020.

Question 2

Does the Rockdoor guarantee transfer to a new homeowner?

Accepted Answer

The guarantee sits with the supplying company, not the homeowner. If you sell your house, the new owner would need to contact the original installer to make any future claims. In practice, this makes the guarantee non-transferable in any meaningful sense.

Question 3

What should I do if my Rockdoor installer has gone bust?

Accepted Answer

Contact Rockdoor directly to explain the situation — while they're not obligated to help, they may be able to advise. You can also contact another Rockdoor Trusted Installer (like us) for repairs or adjustments as a paid service. We stock genuine Rockdoor replacement parts and can diagnose and fix most issues.

Question 4

Is the Rockdoor guarantee better than Solidor or Endurance?

Accepted Answer

All three brands offer similar guarantee structures — 10 years on the door slab, shorter periods on hardware and furniture. The key difference isn't the guarantee terms — it's who holds them and how easy claims are to process. In our experience, Rockdoor are one of the most straightforward manufacturers to deal with on warranty claims. For a full brand comparison, see our Rockdoor vs Solidor vs Endurance guide.

Question 5

Can I claim on the Rockdoor guarantee myself?

Accepted Answer

No. Claims must go through the company that supplied the door. You cannot contact Rockdoor directly as a homeowner and process a guarantee claim — they will refer you back to your supplier.

Question 6

What voids a Rockdoor guarantee?

Accepted Answer

Incorrect installation (not meeting Rockdoor's Five Star guidelines), modifications to the door slab (catflap holes, drilling etc.), fitting non-genuine replacement parts, and failure to maintain the door. The door must also have been fitted by a Rockdoor Trusted Installer for the lock snapping guarantee to apply.

Question 7

How many colours do Rockdoor offer?

Accepted Answer

Rockdoor offers 14 colours: Agate Grey, Anthracite Grey, Slate Grey, Pebble Grey, White, Cream, Black, Chartwell Green, Sapphire Blue, Ruby Red, Emerald Green, Irish Oak, Light Oak and Rosewood. The most recent addition was Pebble Grey, launched in 2024.

Question 8

What is the most popular Rockdoor colour?

Accepted Answer

As of 2026, agate grey (RAL 7038) is the most popular colour we fit — accounting for around 30% of our installations. Anthracite grey (RAL 7016) is a close second and was the industry favourite for many years. Between the four grey shades, they make up well over half of all doors we install.

Question 9

Can I have different colours on the inside and outside of my Rockdoor?

Accepted Answer

Yes — on the door slab itself. Every Rockdoor can have a different colour on each face, giving you 196 possible combinations (14 × 14). The most popular combination is a coloured exterior with a white interior. The frame works differently — the internal face can either match the external face or be white, but you can't have two different colours. Pebble grey frames are always white internally.

Question 10

Which Rockdoor colours come with a matching frame?

Accepted Answer

11 of the 14 colours are available as a frame colour: Agate Grey, Anthracite Grey, Slate Grey, Pebble Grey, White, Cream, Black, Chartwell Green, Irish Oak, Light Oak and Rosewood. Sapphire Blue, Ruby Red and Emerald Green are only available with a white frame. You can pair any available frame colour with any door colour — they don't have to match. The same 11 colours are also available for cills.

Question 11

What RAL code is Rockdoor anthracite grey?

Accepted Answer

Rockdoor Anthracite Grey is RAL 7016 — the same RAL code used across the window and door industry. If your existing windows are RAL 7016, a Rockdoor in anthracite grey will be an exact colour match.

Question 12

What RAL code is Rockdoor agate grey?

Accepted Answer

Rockdoor Agate Grey is RAL 7038. It's a lighter, warmer grey than anthracite (RAL 7016) and is increasingly popular for its softer, more contemporary appearance.

Question 13

Do darker Rockdoor colours fade in sunlight?

Accepted Answer

Rockdoor's foiled uPVC finish is engineered to resist UV fading. We've been fitting Rockdoors since 2010 and have seen doors that are over a decade old with no noticeable colour change. The finish is significantly more durable than a painted surface.

Question 14

Are darker colours more expensive than lighter ones?

Accepted Answer

No. The colour upgrade is the same price (approximately £70) regardless of which colour you choose. White is the base colour included in the standard Rockdoor price.

Question 15

Which Rockdoor colour is best for a south-facing door?

Accepted Answer

Lighter colours (white, cream, agate grey, light oak, Chartwell green, pebble grey) absorb less heat and are the most cautious choice for south-facing doors. Darker colours work well too — Rockdoor's aluminium inner frame manages thermal movement effectively and they offer a 3mm no-bow guarantee — but if you want maximum peace of mind, lighter shades are the way to go.

Question 16

Can I match my Rockdoor to my existing windows?

Accepted Answer

Yes, and we'd recommend it. RAL codes make this straightforward: if your windows are RAL 7016, choose anthracite grey. If they're RAL 9010, choose white. For woodgrain window finishes, the Irish oak, light oak and rosewood options provide a close match. We can bring samples to your property during the survey to check the match in natural light.

Question 17

Which is the most secure composite door — Rockdoor, Solidor or Endurance?

Accepted Answer

Rockdoor is the strongest overall for security. It's the only brand that combines a 360° aluminium-reinforced inner frame, S-Glaze technology (glass permanently sealed into the door with no removable cassettes), and an optional welded steel mesh upgrade. Rockdoor holds PAS 24 certification and Secured by Design accreditation is available when specified with laminated glass and steel mesh. Solidor and Endurance both offer PAS 24 compliant doors with Ultion and ABS 3-star cylinders respectively, but neither matches Rockdoor's structural reinforcement or glazing security.

Question 18

Is Solidor better than Rockdoor?

Accepted Answer

They're different doors built for different priorities. Solidor uses a 48mm solid timber core which gives it a heavier, more substantial feel and offers the widest colour range (27+ colours with dual-colour options). Rockdoor uses a high-density foam core with a 360° aluminium inner frame and S-Glaze sealed glazing, making it structurally stronger and more secure. In our experience fitting both, Rockdoor has fewer long-term issues with thermal movement and weatherproofing. Solidor edges it on design flexibility and colour choice.

Question 19

Do Rockdoors bow in the heat?

Accepted Answer

All composite doors experience minor thermal movement in direct sunlight — no manufacturer can eliminate this entirely. However, Rockdoor's 360° aluminium inner frame restricts movement significantly compared to timber-core alternatives like Solidor and Endurance. Rockdoor backs this with a 3mm no-bow guarantee. In our experience fitting Rockdoors since 2010, any movement we've seen has been slight and has had no effect on the door's operation or weatherproofing. For south-facing doors, we recommend lighter colours to minimise heat absorption.

Question 20

How long do Rockdoor, Solidor and Endurance doors last?

Accepted Answer

All three brands should last 20+ years with proper maintenance. Rockdoor offers a 10-year guarantee on the door slab, outerframe and double-glazed unit. Solidor offers a 10-year guarantee, and Endurance offers a 10-year guarantee. In practice, the door slab itself rarely fails — it's the hardware (handles, locks, seals) that wears first, typically after 8–12 years. All three brands use replaceable hardware, so worn components can be swapped without replacing the whole door.

Question 21

Which composite door brand has the best value for money?

Accepted Answer

It depends on your priorities. GRP composite doors (Door-Stop, Hallmark) offer the best value from around £1,100 fitted if security beyond standard multipoint locking isn't a major concern. For premium brands, Solidor starts from around £1,200 fitted and offers excellent customisation. Rockdoor starts from £1,500 fitted but includes features no other brand offers as standard — S-Glaze sealed glazing, aluminium inner frame, and a 3mm no-bow guarantee. Most of our customers spend between £1,900 and £2,100 on a Rockdoor once they've chosen their colour, glass and hardware.

Question 22

Can I get a Rockdoor, Solidor or Endurance door in any colour?

Accepted Answer

Each brand offers different colour ranges. Rockdoor has 14 colours with dual-colour options (different inside and outside), giving 196 possible combinations. Solidor offers 27+ colours, also with dual-colour options — the widest range of any brand. Endurance offers around 19 colours. All three brands allow you to choose different colours for the door and the frame. For a full breakdown of Rockdoor's colour options with RAL codes, see our Rockdoor colours guide.

Question 23

Where can I buy genuine Rockdoor replacement keys?

Accepted Answer

We sell genuine Rockdoor keys in our online shop. Order online and take them to any local key cutter to have them cut to match your existing key.

Question 24

What lock does a Rockdoor use?

Accepted Answer

Rockdoors are fitted with an Avocet ATK 3-star euro cylinder as standard — anti-snap, anti-drill and anti-bump rated with Sold Secure Diamond accreditation.

Question 25

How do I know which Rockdoor hinge I need?

Accepted Answer

All Rockdoors use the same 3D adjustable hinge in one of three colours: Polished Gold, Silver (Satin) or Black. Check your existing hinge colour and order the matching one.

Question 26

Can I replace Rockdoor parts myself?

Accepted Answer

Keys, brush pile and Q-Lon seals are straightforward DIY jobs. Lock cylinders are manageable if you're comfortable with a screwdriver. Hinge replacement requires precise alignment — we'd recommend a professional for hinges.

Question 27

How often should I replace my Rockdoor seals?

Accepted Answer

Rockdoor Q-Lon gasket seals typically last 8–12 years before they lose compression. If you're noticing draughts around the frame, the seals are usually the first thing to check.

Question 28

Does replacing parts on my Rockdoor void the guarantee?

Accepted Answer

Replacing like-for-like genuine parts (keys, seals, brush pile) won't affect your guarantee. Fitting non-genuine components or making structural modifications to the door slab will void the manufacturer's warranty.

Question 29

How much does a composite door cost in the UK?

Accepted Answer

A composite door costs between £1,100 and £2,500 fully fitted in the UK. Budget GRP brands like Door-Stop and Hallmark start from around £1,100, mid-range brands like Solidor and Endurance from £1,200–£1,300, and premium brands like Rockdoor from £1,500. Most homeowners spend £1,500–£2,000 once upgrades are added.

Question 30

What is the cheapest composite door brand?

Accepted Answer

GRP foam-core brands like Door-Stop, Hallmark and Virtuoso are the most affordable, with fitted prices starting from around £1,100 in white with standard hardware. They use a foam-filled core rather than solid timber, which keeps manufacturing costs lower, but they still offer good security and thermal performance.

Question 31

Is a composite door worth the extra money over uPVC?

Accepted Answer

For a front door, yes. Composite doors are significantly more secure (multipoint locking with 3-star cylinders as standard), better insulated, and look considerably better. They last 25–35 years with minimal maintenance compared to 15–20 years for uPVC. The extra £500–£1,000 over a uPVC door pays for itself in security, kerb appeal and longevity.

Question 32

Why are Rockdoors more expensive than other composite doors?

Accepted Answer

Rockdoor costs more because it includes features no other manufacturer offers as standard — S-Glaze technology (no removable glazing cassettes), a 360° aluminium-reinforced inner frame, Winkhaus multipoint locking with solid brass hooks, and Q-Lon continuous gaskets. Every other brand on this list uses clip-in glazing cassettes and uPVC or timber frame construction. You're paying for a genuinely different product, not just a brand name.

Question 33

What is the best composite door brand?

Accepted Answer

There isn't a single "best" — it depends on your priorities. Rockdoor is best for security, Solidor is best for colour choice and design flexibility, Endurance is best for style variety, and GRP brands like Door-Stop are best for value. For a detailed comparison, read our Rockdoor vs Solidor vs Endurance guide.

Question 34

Do sidelights increase the cost of a composite door?

Accepted Answer

Yes, significantly. A single sidelight adds £240–£400 to the total price depending on the size, colour and glass design. Sidelights on both sides add £480–£800. The cill cost also increases because the opening is wider. If the existing opening needs widening to accommodate sidelights, structural work (lintel installation) is required at additional cost.

Question 35

Do toplights increase the cost of a composite door?

Accepted Answer

Yes. A toplight adds £210–£370 to the total price. As with sidelights, the cost varies by size, colour and glass specification. The differences between brands for sidelights and toplights are relatively small — all the major brands price these similarly.

Question 36

What is the difference between a foam-core and timber-core composite door?

Accepted Answer

Foam-core doors (Rockdoor, Door-Stop, Hallmark, Virtuoso, Truedor) use a polyurethane insulating core. They're lighter, typically offer better thermal performance, and are less susceptible to swelling. Timber-core doors (Solidor, Endurance, CompDoor) use a solid or laminated timber core. They feel heavier and more substantial, which some homeowners prefer. Both types meet Building Regulations and offer excellent security — the difference is mainly in feel, weight and subtle performance characteristics. Rockdoor is unique in being a foam-core door that achieves premium-level security through its aluminium-reinforced frame and S-Glaze construction, rather than relying on a timber core for strength. Despite being foam-core, Rockdoors feel substantially heavier and more solid than both the other foam-core brands and most timber-core doors — the aluminium reinforcement adds significant weight. When you close a Rockdoor, it feels and sounds like a serious front door.

Question 37

How long does a composite door last?

Accepted Answer

Most composite doors last 25–35 years with basic maintenance. Premium brands with better hardware and construction may last longer. The main maintenance requirements are wiping down the door with soapy water, vacuuming the threshold channel, and lubricating the lock mechanism annually (use GT-85, not WD-40 which can gum up the lock). For more on this, see our cylinder lock guide.

Question 38

Can I buy a composite door and fit it myself?

Accepted Answer

You can buy supply-only from most brands, but we'd caution against DIY fitting unless you have genuine experience. Composite doors require precise measurements, correct frame packing, proper sealing and careful adjustment of the multipoint locking mechanism. An incorrectly fitted door will have poor weathersealing, may not lock properly, and could void the manufacturer's warranty. You'll also need to arrange your own Building Regulations compliance — either through a local authority building control inspection or by using a registered installer.

Question 39

What is the lead time for a composite door?

Accepted Answer

Lead times vary by brand. GRP doors like Door-Stop can be delivered in as little as 3 working days — one of the fastest in the industry. Solidor and Endurance typically take 4 weeks. Rockdoor currently runs at approximately 4 weeks from order. Bespoke colours or unusual specifications can extend lead times on any brand.

Question 40

Should I choose a local installer or a national company?

Accepted Answer

Local installers are almost always cheaper than national companies for the same product. National brands like Everest and Anglian spend heavily on TV advertising, showrooms and sales teams — all of which is reflected in their prices. A local FENSA or Certass-registered installer will typically quote £500–£1,000 less for the same door. Be wary of high-pressure sales tactics and finance-led pricing from larger companies — as we've covered in this guide, a door quoted at £4,000 on finance is the same door a local installer might fit for under £2,000 paid by bank transfer. The key is to verify credentials, check reviews, and ensure they offer an insurance-backed guarantee.

Question 41

Do composite doors warp?

Accepted Answer

All composite doors experience minor thermal movement — this is physics, not a defect, and no manufacturer has eliminated it entirely. Dark-coloured doors facing south experience the most movement because they absorb more heat. Timber-core doors (Solidor, Endurance) are slightly more susceptible than foam-core doors. Rockdoor's aluminium inner frame restricts movement significantly and they offer a 3mm no-bow guarantee. In our experience fitting doors since 2010, any movement we've seen has been slight and has had no effect on the door's operation. The key advice: always lift the handle to engage the full locking mechanism when closing any composite door, especially darker colours. Don't just push it shut on the latch.

Question 42

What lock cylinder should a composite door have?

Accepted Answer

At minimum, a 3-star anti-snap cylinder rated to TS007 or equivalent. This protects against lock snapping — the most common method of forced entry on composite and uPVC doors. Most premium brands include this as standard (Rockdoor fits Avocet ATK, Solidor fits Ultion, Door-Stop fits Ultion). If your composite door doesn't have a 3-star cylinder, you can upgrade it yourself for £30–£60.

Question 43

Do I need planning permission to replace my front door?

Accepted Answer

In most cases, no. Replacing a front door on a standard residential property is classed as a permitted development and doesn't require planning permission — as long as the new door is similar in appearance to the original and the property isn't a listed building. However, there are exceptions. If your property is a listed building, you'll almost certainly need listed building consent before changing the door — and there may be restrictions on style, colour and materials. If your property is in a conservation area, permitted development rights may be more limited, and your local authority may have specific guidance on acceptable door styles and colours. In both cases, check with your local planning department before ordering. We've fitted doors in conservation areas ourselves — we replaced four doors on a row of seven period houses in the centre of a well-known town, all with Rockdoors matched like-for-like to the originals. The colour, panel layout and proportions were carefully chosen to replicate the existing doors, and once fitted you'd hardly tell the difference. Composite doors have come a long way in terms of authenticity — but it's always worth confirming with your local authority before ordering, especially in a conservation area. Separately from planning permission, replacing an external door does require compliance with Building Regulations Part L (energy efficiency). This isn't optional — it applies to every door replacement in England and Wales. The simplest way to comply is to use an installer registered with a competent person scheme (FENSA, Certass, or QANW), who can self-certify the work. If you use an unregistered installer or fit the door yourself, you'll need to arrange a building control inspection through your local authority, which typically costs £200–£300.

Question 44

Are composite back doors cheaper than front doors?

Accepted Answer

The door itself costs the same regardless of whether it's fitted to the front or back of your house. However, homeowners typically spend less on back doors because they choose simpler specifications — a plain colour, basic glass or no glass, and lever handles rather than a premium bar handle. A back door doesn't need the same kerb appeal, so the upgrades that push front door prices towards £2,000+ are often skipped. If you're replacing both doors at the same time, most installers can offer a slightly better combined price.

Question 45

How many door styles does Rockdoor offer?

Accepted Answer

35 individual styles, plus stable door, French door and double door variants. The range covers everything from the ultra-contemporary Dune Vision to the traditional English Cottage. Every style is available in all 14 colours.

Question 46

What is the maximum door size?

Accepted Answer

Most Rockdoor styles have a maximum sash size of 908mm wide x 2098mm tall. Stable doors have a maximum height of 2014mm. French and double doors can reach a combined width of 1823mm. Minimum sizes vary by style — check the technical manual or ask your installer.

Question 47

Are Rockdoors with large glass panels less secure?

Accepted Answer

No. Thanks to S-Glaze technology, the glass is bonded directly into the door and cannot be removed from outside. There are no cassettes to prise off. For maximum security, upgrade to laminated glass — this is required for Secured by Design accreditation.

Question 48

What is the Secured by Design upgrade?

Accepted Answer

Secured by Design requires three specific additions: P1A compliant laminated glass (6.8mm), steel security mesh reinforcement, and a TS008 compliant letterplate. All three must be present. The standard Rockdoor is already exceptionally secure — SBD takes it to the highest possible level.

Question 49

Will a dark-coloured Rockdoor warp in direct sunlight?

Accepted Answer

All composite doors experience minor thermal movement — this is physics, not a defect. Dark colours absorb more heat and experience slightly more movement than lighter colours. Rockdoor's 360° aluminium inner frame restricts this movement significantly, and they offer a 3mm no-bow guarantee. In our experience, any movement we've seen on dark Rockdoors has been slight and has had no effect on operation. Always lift the handle to fully engage the locks when closing.

Question 50

What is the Heritage Plus lock?

Accepted Answer

An instant-locking system that automatically throws the hooks and deadbolt when the door closes. No handle lifting or key turning needed — the door locks itself using magnetic detection. It requires tighter installation tolerances (±0.5mm) than standard locks and should only be fitted by experienced installers.

Question 51

How does the £2,000 lock guarantee work?

Accepted Answer

The guarantee is provided by the cylinder manufacturer. If a burglar gains entry by snapping the Avocet ATK 3-star cylinder, you receive £2,000. The key must be removed from the cylinder for the security features to be active. See Rockdoor's website for full terms and conditions.

Question 52

What is the guarantee on a Rockdoor?

Accepted Answer

Rockdoor provides a comprehensive manufacturer's guarantee covering structural integrity, performance and colour stability. The exact terms and duration should be confirmed with your installer or directly with Rockdoor, as guarantee details can be updated.

Question 53

How do I find replacement parts for my Rockdoor?

Accepted Answer

Find the 6 or 7 digit production number on the hinge side of the inner frame. Contact Rockdoor's parts service or browse our Rockdoor replacement parts shop for commonly needed items.

Question 54

What is laminated glass?

Accepted Answer

Laminated glass consists of two or more glass layers with an interlayer of polyvinyl butyral (PVB) for added strength and safety.

Question 55

Why choose laminated glass for doors?

Accepted Answer

Laminated glass provides enhanced security, noise reduction, and UV protection, making it ideal for composite doors.

Question 56

How does laminated glass improve security?

Accepted Answer

The interlayer holds the glass together, making it harder to break and providing additional protection against forced entry.

Question 57

Is laminated glass energy-efficient?

Accepted Answer

Yes, laminated glass helps insulate your home, reducing energy costs by maintaining indoor temperature.

Question 58

Does laminated glass provide UV protection?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the PVB interlayer helps block harmful UV rays, protecting your interiors from sun damage.

Question 59

Can laminated glass reduce noise?

Accepted Answer

Yes, laminated glass effectively reduces noise, making your home quieter and more comfortable.

Question 60

Is laminated glass available in different designs?

Accepted Answer

Yes, however you will need Clear backing glass to have it on a Rockdoor

Question 61

How do I clean laminated glass?

Accepted Answer

Clean with a soft cloth, mild soap, and water. Avoid abrasive cleaners to prevent scratching.

Question 62

Can laminated glass be used in all types of doors?

Accepted Answer

Yes, laminated glass is suitable for various door types, including composite, uPVC, and wooden doors.

Question 63

What is the difference between laminated and tempered glass?

Accepted Answer

Laminated glass holds together when broken, while tempered glass will shatter into small, less harmful pieces.

Question 64

Is laminated glass more expensive than regular glass?

Accepted Answer

Yes, laminated glass is generally more expensive due to its enhanced safety and durability features as well as cost to make.

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