Composite door security: 3-Star cylinders, pas 24 and SBD explained
- 21 November 2025
- News
Composite door security: 3-star cylinders, PAS 24 and SBD explained
When you’re choosing a new composite door it’s easy to get carried away with colours, handles and knockers. But it’s just as important to check for the security features that protect your home day after day.
Although we understand that this can be tricky, especially trying to understand which accreditations truly matter when you’re scrolling through websites to be greeted with an alphabet soup of technical jargon.
This guide explains the key accreditations to look out for, including Secured by Design and PAS 24, as well as what they mean for your property. We’ll also discuss what features are desirable on the doors themselves, including 3-star cylinders, multi-point locks and laminated safety glass.
At Crown, our composite doors combine strong materials, rigorous testing and police-recognised standards to help protect your home against opportunistic break-ins. By understanding what this means, you can confidently compare door security features, meet insurance requirements and choose a level of protection that truly delivers peace of mind.
What to look out for in a secure composite door?
There are several security standards and product features that indicate whether a door can stand up to real-world attacks. Look out for:
PAS 24
PAS 24 is a UK security standard that proves a door has been tested against attacks from opportunistic burglars using force or tools. It forms part of building regulations for new homes and involves independent testing to strict performance requirements of PAS. In simple terms, it confirms a door can resist criminal damage under real pressure.
Secured by Design accreditation
Secured by Design is the official police security initiative that aims to improve the security of buildings and their immediate surroundings to provide safe places to live, work, shop and visit. It’s another good thing to look out for when choosing home improvement products or installers.
3-star cylinders
The star cylinder rating relates to how well a lock cylinder resists common break-in methods including snapping, drilling and picking. A 3-star cylinder offers the highest level of security and is often recommended by insurance companies. If you want added protection, combining a 1-star cylinder with 2-star secondary protection (such as strengthened hardware) can also provide strong future-proofing.
Laminated glass requirements
Laminated glass features multiple layers bonded together, meaning it stays intact rather than shattering when struck. This makes it far harder to break through and is often used in line with PAS 24 and SBD specification requirements. It also adds a safety benefit by reducing the risk of injury if damaged.
Multi-point locking systems
Rather than a single lock, a multi-point system secures the door along the full height and width of the frame. Combined with hinge bolts and strong cores, this spreads force across multiple points, making forced entry much trickier.
Composite doors from Crown
At Crown Conservatories, Windows and Doors Ltd our composite door range is engineered for security, durability and long-lasting style.
We use strong GRP skins, dense or solid internal cores (the choice is yours) and high-security multipoint locking systems as standard, helping you protect your home with confidence. Many of our designs meet stringent security standards, offering a high level of security without compromising on aesthetics.
Colours and glazing
You can choose from a huge range of colours including traditional woodgrain finishes, bold contemporary shades and soft heritage tones. Glazing options such as Florielle, Stippolyte, Mayflower and Digital allow you to create a look that suits your home while still meeting safety glass and security requirements where needed.
How long does installation take?
Most composite doors take around two to three weeks from order confirmation to installation, depending on design approval and specification. This includes manufacturing your made-to-measure door and fitting it with care by our experienced team.
Who are Crown?
We are Crown Conservatories, Windows and Doors Ltd, a trusted installer with over 20 years of experience serving Milton Keynes and surrounding areas.
Our products are made to measure, installed by FENSA-registered fitters and protected by a 10-year warranty with an insurance-backed guarantee. Alongside composite doors, we offer windows, uPVC doors, aluminium doors, patio doors, bi-folds and much more. You can explore designs in our state-of-the-art showroom or request a free 3D design plan to bring ideas to life.
To get started call 01908 507 778 or email info@crownwindows.co.uk.
Key findings
- Look for PAS 24 testing to confirm protection against real-world attacks
- SBD accreditation is a recognised standard backed by police forces and third-party certification
- 3-star cylinders give strong resistance against snapping, drilling and picking
- Laminated safety glass helps prevent forced entry through glazing
