When it comes to keeping your home looking great and functioning efficiently, proper upkeep of your entrances is essential. For homeowners in Bedford, aluminium and composite doors remain a popular choice for their strength, insulation benefits, and stylish appearance. However, to truly make the most of these advanced door systems, it’s important to follow a consistent maintenance routine. This guide offers practical aluminium and composite doors maintenance advice to help you extend the lifespan of your doors, reduce energy costs, and protect your home’s value.
At Bedford Bi-folds, we’re committed to helping you maximise the return on your investment—because if you’re happy, then we’re happy.
Cleaning aluminium doors
Aluminium doors are low-maintenance by design, but routine cleaning is crucial to preserve both performance and appearance. Over time, dust, grime, and pollution can settle on the surface or within the door tracks, so we recommend washing the door exterior with warm water and a mild detergent. This gentle method helps maintain the powder-coated finish without compromising the protective surface.
Avoid harsh or abrasive cleaning pads, as these can damage the finish and leave visible marks. Pay particular attention to the door tracks and seals; removing accumulated debris helps prevent mechanical issues with rollers and ensures a smooth slide. A simple, consistent cleaning schedule supports long-lasting doors and safeguards efficiency.
Maintaining composite doors
Composite doors offer excellent thermal performance and are engineered to handle the British weather with ease. However, they still benefit greatly from regular inspections and cleaning. Begin by checking the door’s rubber seals and weatherstripping. If any parts appear worn or loose, they should be replaced, as they play a vital role in insulating your home and keeping energy costs down.
To clean your composite door, use a soft cloth or sponge with a non-abrasive household cleaner. This approach will maintain the door’s vibrant colour and textured finish, helping your entrance look newer for longer. In addition, inspect hinges and locks for signs of wear. Any resistance or dragging can be resolved through timely hinge adjustments or lubrication, ensuring a smoother operation and extending the life of your door hardware.
Inspecting and lubricating hardware
Whether you have aluminium or composite doors, their hardware components—such as hinges, handles, and locks—are the backbone of their performance. Regularly check each of these parts for proper alignment and effortless function. If your handles begin to stick or the locks become stiff, don’t wait for a total breakdown—act promptly.
Use a silicone-based lubricant (instead of oil-based alternatives, which attract dirt) to maintain smooth operation and protect metal components from corrosion. Conducting a basic check-up a few times a year allows you to catch minor issues early on and avoid more serious, expensive repairs down the line.
Annual inspections, even on doors that appear to be performing well, can be a proactive way to maintain your home’s energy efficiency—and save money in the long run.
Professional servicing options
While many homeowners prefer the DIY route for day-to-day upkeep, having your doors inspected professionally once a year can make a significant difference—particularly for high-usage or feature installations like pivot or sliding systems. At Bedford Bi-folds Ltd, our FENSA Approved installers offer comprehensive maintenance packages, tailored specifically for our range of aluminium and composite door systems.
These routine check-ups can include glazing inspections, track cleaning methods, hinge adjustments, weatherstripping replacement, and general door tune-ups. Investing in professional attention reduces the risk of unexpected issues and extends the useful life of your installations—helping you enjoy cost-effective performance from doors built to last.
Conclusion
A consistent and careful approach to aluminium and composite doors maintenance not only safeguards the look of your doors—it enhances their functionality, improves insulation, and protects your home from unnecessary cost or hassle. By investing a small amount of time and care, you benefit from increased energy efficiency (with potential savings of 10–20% on your bills, according to the Energy Saving Trust), better security, and uninterrupted use.
Protecting your home doesn’t have to be difficult—especially when you have access to professional support from a trusted local name. At Bedford Bi-folds Ltd, we’re with you every step of the way, from selection to aftercare, ensuring you always have access to high-quality maintenance and advice you can rely on.
Are your doors working as hard as they should be for your home?
Get in touch with Bedford Bi-folds today online or in person for expert servicing, maintenance advice, or to explore our stylish, long-lasting aluminium and composite door systems.