Last Updated on 4 September 2024 by Josh Lucas
Composite doors are renowned for their durability and sleek appearance, but to keep them looking their best, regular cleaning is essential.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to efficiently clean your composite door, ensuring it maintains its pristine condition year-round.
Jump ahead:
- Why should you clean your composite door
- 6 steps for cleaning composite doors
- Additional tips for cleaning
- Prevent future damage
- How often should you clean your composite door?
- FAQs
Why should you clean your composite door?
Maintaining a clean composite door goes beyond mere aesthetics; it’s crucial for preserving the integrity of the door’s materials and ensuring its longevity. Dirt, grime, and environmental factors can accumulate over time, potentially causing damage and compromising the door’s performance. By regularly cleaning your composite door, you not only enhance its appearance but also protect your investment in your home.
6 steps for cleaning composite doors
Let’s delve into the nitty-gritty of cleaning your composite door with this simple six-step process:
Scrub the front
Start by gently scrubbing the front surface of the door with a mild detergent and warm water solution. Use a soft-bristled brush or sponge to remove any dirt or debris, paying close attention to any stubborn stains.
Clean the accessories
Next, wipe down any accessories such as handles, letterboxes, or knockers with a clean, damp cloth. This will help to remove any surface grime and maintain the overall appearance of your door’s hardware.
Dry the door:
After cleaning, use a dry cloth to thoroughly dry the door’s surface, ensuring no water spots or streaks are left behind. This step is crucial for preventing water damage and maintaining the door’s finish.
Repeat the process for the other side
Once the front of the door is clean and dry, repeat the same cleaning process for the other side. Consistency is key to ensuring both sides of your composite door remain in top condition.
Use separate cloth to clean the glass
If your composite door features glass panels, use a separate cloth and glass cleaner to clean them thoroughly. This will help to remove any smudges or fingerprints and keep the glass looking crystal clear.
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Buff the glass
To finish, use a clean, dry microfiber cloth to buff the glass panels to a sparkling shine. This final touch will enhance the overall appearance of your door and leave it looking as good as new.
Additional tips for maintaining composite doors
In addition to regular cleaning, there are several other maintenance tasks you can perform to ensure your composite door remains in optimal condition:
1. Lubricate hinges and locks
Periodically lubricate the hinges and locks of your composite door to prevent squeaking and ensure smooth operation. Use a silicone-based lubricant to avoid attracting dust and debris.
When you purchase a door from GFD Homes, we recommend lubricating door lock cylinders every 6 months, along with cleaning your hinge locking system. For optimal cleaning methods, please consult the manufacturer’s maintenance guide.
2. Inspect weather stripping
Check the weather stripping around your composite door regularly for signs of wear or damage. Replace any worn or damaged weather stripping to maintain a tight seal and prevent drafts.
3. Touch up scratches or chips
If your composite door sustains minor scratches or chips, consider touching them up with a matching paint or repair kit. This will help prevent further damage and keep your door looking like new.
4. Protect against extreme weather
During periods of extreme heat or cold, take steps to protect your composite door from potential damage. Avoid placing heat sources, such as grills or outdoor heaters, near the door, and consider installing a storm door for added protection.
Our Smart signature aluminium composite doors range offers finely crafted aluminium doors designed to seamlessly complement a variety of home styles & aesthetics.
Preventing future damage
In addition to regular cleaning and maintenance, there are several proactive steps you can take to prevent future damage to your composite door. Here are some tips:
Install a door canopy
A door canopy provides protection from the elements, shielding your composite door from rain, snow, and harsh sunlight.
Trim surrounding vegetation
Trim back any bushes, trees, or other vegetation near your composite door to prevent branches or leaves from scratching or damaging the door’s surface.
Use door mats
Place door mats at entryways to trap dirt, mud, and debris before they can be tracked onto your composite door’s surface.
Apply a protective sealant
Consider applying a protective sealant to your composite door to enhance its durability and resistance to stains, scratches, and UV damage.
By following these preventive measures, you can extend the lifespan of your composite door and reduce the need for costly repairs or replacements in the future.
At GFD Homes, we’re proud to offer a fantastic nationwide fitting service for most of our products.
How often should you clean your composite doors?
Our composite doors are designed to be not only stylish and durable but also easy to clean and relatively low maintenance. However, regular cleaning is still essential to ensure they maintain their pristine appearance and functionality.
We recommend cleaning your composite door at least once every three months as a general guideline. This frequency helps to prevent the buildup of dirt, grime, and other environmental pollutants that can detract from the door’s aesthetic appeal and potentially affect its performance over time.
If you live in an area with particularly harsh weather conditions or high levels of pollution, you may need to clean your composite door more frequently to keep it looking its best. On the other hand, if your door is located in a sheltered area and sees minimal exposure to dirt and debris, you may be able to extend the time between cleanings.
Remember, our team is always here to assist you with any questions or concerns you may have about cleaning and maintaining your new front door. Feel free to give us a call at 01642 309576 or check out our blog for additional tips and advice on caring for your doors.
Keeping your composite doors clean and well-maintained not only enhances the beauty of your home but also ensures they continue to provide reliable performance for years to come.
FAQs about cleaning composite doors
What is the best thing to use to clean a composite door?
A mild detergent and warm water solution are typically sufficient for cleaning composite doors. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the door’s finish.
How do you get the shine back on a composite door?
To restore the shine to a composite door, use a gentle car wax or polish applied with a soft cloth. Buff the door in a circular motion until the shine is restored.
We’d highly recommend consulting with your supplier beforehand to prevent any potential damage to the door.
Does WD-40 clean composite doors?
While WD-40 can be effective for removing stubborn stains or sticky residue from composite doors, it’s important to use it sparingly and avoid getting it on the door’s finish.
How do you get white marks off composite doors?
White marks on composite doors are often caused by mineral deposits from hard water. To remove them, mix equal parts white vinegar and water and gently scrub the affected area with a soft cloth.
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