Probably a stupid door question

[RunsWithScissors]

Our front door (we have two, previous owners put a door in front porch to enclose it) is in need of replacing. It's a upvc door that the screws are constantly having to be tightened (every two weeks, with us being careful to not let it swing open).

Also, it's two glazed panels that lets everyone know when we are away, as the post is obvious at the bottom. And, it's ugly

The surround that was built to house the door is pvc, so am I correct in thinking we must replace with upvc, or is it possibly to replace with a composite door she asks hopefully, as they all seem to look much nicer

Composite isn't a option, is it? I'm guessing it won't have the overlap on the frame that is needed.

If my hopes are to be dashed, and suggestions of where to find decent looking upvc doors? It's a 1930s semi, would love something to match the style, with some glazing in it as well (but big NO to faux leaded light).
Help!

Bump

You could consider replacing the surround too? Will add a bit to the expense, but it would make it much easier to get something to match.

Our last house was 1930's and instead of leaded, we used sandblasted glass with clear bevelled edges in the door and for the side panels in the surround something like this, but painted white and with the sides being half wooden, half glass - nod to the period while still modern.

Oh, very nice!

Not sure DH would be up for the added expense just for the look of it. Might have to convince him :-)

Thanks for replying.

Might not be as bad as he you thinks - also, do shop around.

Our doorway was a bit of an odd size, so I started off looking at specialist/salvage type places and the cheapest suitable door I could find was £2k . So went back to the drawing board and found a brand new, solid wood, door, of the right size, that a standard doors and floors type shop was selling as part of a range - for the grand total of £286

you can rip out all the plastic, and fit a complete new door and frame. Frames are not expensive.

My preference is for hardwood. If it is exposed to weather, paint (not black or red) will last better than stain. The more wood is in them, the heavier they are and the more they cost.

You can have laminated glass for burglar resistance if it is part glazed.

A 5-lever British Standard deadlock is more secure than a Eurocylinder lock, and very modestly priced. Supplement it with a BS nightlatch if you want.

A joiner or carpenter will do it quicker and better than a handyman or general builder. A door specialist company will overcharge.

Brilliant. Thanks everyone.

PigletJohn, your recommendation to not paint the door black or red, is that due to fading or personal preference?

Red fades in sunlight, black overheats and causes early cracking.

Very sensible. Thank you.