Composite front doors are a popular choice for homeowners due to their durability, security and stylish appearance. Despite being more low maintanence than a traditional wooden door, cleaning a composite door is essential for keeping it looking it’s best and ensuring longevity.
So how do you care for a composite door? In this guide, we’ll tell you how to clean a composite front door effectively and provide maintenance tips to help you preserve its flawless appearance for years to come.
How to Clean Composite Doors in 5 Steps
Thankfully, cleaning a composite door only requires mild soap, warm water and a little TLC. While composite door maintenance is minimal, you will occasionally need to remove any build-up of dirt and dust over time.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Mild detergent (avoid harsh cleaning products that may damage the door’s finish)
- Warm water
- Soft cloth or sponge
- Bucket
- Very soft bristle brush to remove debris
- Glass cleaner (if applicable)
- Microfibre cloth
If you plan on cleaning and lubricating the locks, hinges and hardware of your composite front door, you’ll need a Teflon-based lubricant for the locks and light engineering oil for the hinges. Avoid products like WD-40 which dry out too quickly.
Step-by-Step Cleaning Guide
- Start by protecting any nearby plants or walkways to prevent water damage then prep the door for cleaning. Use a soft-bristled brush to remove any loose dirt particles from the exterior.
- In your bucket, create a mild soapy solution by adding small amounts of detergent to warm water.
- Using your soft cloth, gently wipe the soapy solution down the entire door surface including the frame and any side panels. Pay close attention to grooves, edges, corners and the handles.
- Use clean water to rinse thoroughly and remove any soapy residue.
- Dry the door completely with a clean microfibre cloth to prevent any watermarks and streaks.
Cleaning Composite Door Glass Panels
Take a separate clean cloth and apply glass cleaner, then gently clean the glass panels in a circular motion to avoid streaks.
Use another dry microfibre cloth to buff the glass to a shine.
Cleaning Composite Door Hardware
Use a damp cloth to wipe down the composite door hardware. Clean the handles, letterboxes, knockers, spyhole and other door furniture.
Ensure all of the hardware is completely dry to prevent water damage.
You can apply a small amount of lubricant to the hinges and locks as needed to ensure smooth operation.
General Composite Door Maintenance Tips
To prevent damage and maintain the beauty of your composite door, here are a few maintenance tips:
- Avoid cleaning with harsh chemicals that can damage the finish of your composite front door.
- Protect from scratches by being careful when opening and closing the doors. Use door stops to prevent damage. Keys and keyrings can often cause scratches on the exterior so be mindful when locking and unlocking your composite door.
- Establish a regular cleaning schedule to keep the door in top condition
- Perform additional checks, cleaning and maintenance during seasonal weather changes. For example, it is a good idea to remove winter salt buildup in the spring.
Composite Door Maintenance FAQs
How Often Should I Clean My Composite Door?
For most homeowners, cleaning a composite door every few weeks is sufficient. However, if your door is in a high-traffic or exposed area, you may need to clean it more frequently.
How Do You Lubricate a Composite Door?
To lubricate your composite door, focus on the moving parts like hinges, locks, and handles. Use a light engineering oil on the hinges and a teflon-based lubricant for the locks. Apply a small amount to these areas and move the parts smoothly to distribute the oil evenly.
Can I Paint My Composite Door?
Composite doors are not designed to be painted as they are manufactured with the colour ingrained into the material of the door. It is generally not recommended to paint a composite door as it may damage the door’s finish and will void any warranties that protect the longevity of the door.
What is the Best Product to Clean Composite Doors With?
The best product to clean composite doors is a simple solution of mild detergent and warm water. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners as they can damage the door’s finish. A soft cloth is ideal for cleaning the surface.
New Composite Front Doors at RB Windows
Knowing how to clean a composite door is simple and straightforward but if it’s time to invest in a new front door, RB Windows can help. If you’re looking to replace your old UPVC door with a new, low-maintenance composite door, we have an awesome range with something to suit all tastes. Choose from leading door brands like CompDoor, Apeer, Distinction Doors, Residor and Solidor, all with the robust features you expect from high-quality composite doors.
For more information, check out our range of composite doors or contact our team online or call 01543 467146.
