PVC is a synthetic material moulded into frame profiles used in the manufacture of window and doors introduced about 30 years ago. At the beginning this new material was viewed as providing a maintenance free solution. PVC does not warp or twist and requires no decoration during the life of the product.
PVC is used extensively in the building industry, not only in windows and doors but also fascia boards, rainwater guttering and sewer pipes to mention just a few.
When PVC appeared for the first time there was an explosion of homeowners wanting to install PVC front doors. Back then they were only available in while but nowadays there some other colors added to the range and very popular are the wood grain versions in number of imitation wood species such as oak or mahogany for example.
Door sets come complete with the door and frame ready for installing into the door structural opening. The door is also factory fitted into the frame including all the necessary ironmongery including the door handles and locking system.
One advantage with these types of doors is the security provided by a multipoint locking system that usually comes as standard. This consists of a moving metal strip on the door leading edge that combines locking pins that engage with the door frame when the door is locked. There can be up to six locking pins. The locking system can only be as good at the cylinder that is used to prevent the lock being deactivated. Earlier versions of these cylinders had a weakness allowing intruders to by-pass them with relative ease. More modern versions are much stronger and therefore more secure.
Another advantage is the weather stripping with these types of doors. Older wooden doors were quite difficult to keep weather tight and prevent any draughts. With PVC frames weather stripping is an integral part of the frame profile. The weather stripping seals the joint between the door and the frame making sure no draughts can penetrate. The seals operate in a similar way to a car door when closed.
With all these innovations it is not surprising they are very popular.
Why don’t you read further on these door systems and others at Doors Dictionary?