Fiberglass, Wood or Steel: Which Door Material Is Right for Your Home?
Your front door is likely to be one of the very first things visitors notice when approaching your home. It also serves an important function beyond mere aesthetics—your front door is the first line of defense against the elements. The right door for you fits your home’s style and does the job to keep wind, rain, snow and ice outside.
You may be wondering which door material is better: fiberglass, wood or steel? Let’s look at the advantages and disadvantages of different types of doors to figure out which one might be right for you.
Fiberglass doors
A fiberglass exterior door is constructed from two large, molded sides filled in the center with a core made of polyurethane foam to insulate the door against extreme weather. This process means that fiberglass is one of the most long-lasting and energy-efficient choices around.
Fiberglass is a low-maintenance option. That’s because it’s made of a composite that will resist fading, cracking and chipping. Fiberglass will require less maintenance compared to wood and steel, and doesn’t need to be repainted regularly.
It’s also very durable. Fiberglass isn’t susceptible to chipping like wood or steel. This material is also cost effective, energy efficient and easily customizable.
On the other hand, some homeowners simply prefer the look of wood and steel. Fiberglass is often made to mimic the look of wood, but it’s still not the real thing.
Wood doors
A stained or painted wood door is often simply more pleasing to the eye. It has a classic look that homeowners love. While wood isn’t quite as durable as fiberglass, scratches and dents can be easily hidden via sanding.
That said, wood doors tend to have a higher price tag. They also aren’t particularly energy efficient compared to the alternatives. Wood doors may absorb moisture, which can lead to mold. The material’s flexibility also means that it may swell, resulting in opening and closing the door being more difficult. Lastly, you may want to install a portico over the front door to cover it from the elements.
Steel doors
One big advantage of steel doors is that they’re lower cost, sometimes even lower than fiberglass. Steel provides a strong barrier against thieves and other intruders. Like fiberglass doors, steel also offers strong energy efficiency and will insulate the home well during the winter months. Overall, steel doors provide a cost-efficient alternative to those who don’t prefer fiberglass.
The leading disadvantage of steel doors is that the material is easy to scratch compared to the other choices. These scratches aren’t just a cosmetic issue—they can lead to rust if left for too long. Steel may also feel very hot during the summer months and freezing during the winter.
Are you interested in a new exterior door for your home? Which door material is going to be better for your needs? No matter which material you choose, Wes-Kan Siding Windows & Doors has you covered. We have made it our mission to serve homeowners, contractors and builders on every project. Come to our showroom today or give us a call to find out about all we have to offer.
Categorised in: Front Doors