UVPC doors - secure???

[sairejayne]

Are UPVC doors secure? My husband wants them fitted, but i have heard that it is really easy for burglars to kick the bottom panel in to gain entry. This is really concerning - does anybody know if this is true or any idea how secure the doors are?

Thanks

[Hawkwalk]

Solid wood is stronger but if a burglar wants to get in it wont matter what type of door you have.

When I was burgled they just smashed the glass in the patio doors and walked in. Nothing much you can do about that.

[Ethel]

They are a lot better than they used to be, although there is a silent way of gaining entry through upvc doors.
You can get them with strong metal bars inside, making it impossible for anyone to climb through a panel.

You just have to be careful who you buy them from.

I wouldn't have them, but that is personal choice. I think they are ugly.

[theonlyone]

If some one wants to get in they will ,also depends on the area you live in . Double glazing has got a lot better over the years ,the cowboy element has gone , so go on recommendations from friends . The first house I had double glazed had patio doors and had to have a broom handle in between the sliding doors as you could lift them off !! That was a tip from the police ! I would think the person next door will hear if someone is kicking in the front door .

[worfman]

hi sairejayne i'm a window and door fitter, if the door has a solid panel [wood reinforced or metal] and it's been glazed properly witch most arnt , and it's been fitted right, then there fine.. but there is a lot of cheap cr*p out there. allso you could go to a good firm and it's fitted by muppets..why not concider a composit door,,solid, lock's in three place's [most upvc door's lock in five place's] look' better than a normal upvc door.. but more expensive. you can get cheap one's from b and q's.

[BillyBB]

There are two techniques widely posted on the internet for unlocking PVCu doors. Also the tolerances in manufacture create other security weaknesses.
I have locking bolts on all mine and exit via a wooden door for security.