Benefits of Steel and Fiberglass Doors

If you’re reading this, we assume you probably need a new entry door and you’re doing some research to ensure that you make the best choice.
Or, maybe you just like to read home improvement articles. We’re not here to judge.

Regardless, during your research you may have come across information regarding the different materials used to make front entry doors.
If you’re looking for other options besides a wooden entry door and want to know what else is out there, then you’ve come to the right place.
In this article we are going to discuss the benefits of two types of doors: steel and fiberglass.

In short, steel and fiberglass doors are going to provide you with much higher quality and sustainability than a wood door. But there are other reasons that make a steel or fiberglass entry door your best choice. You can also read more about Problems with Wood Entry Doors in this post, if you’re curious.

Let’s get started.

Strength of Steel and Fiberglass Entry Doors

• Endurance – Steel and fiberglass doors are extra durable, making them a popular choice of homeowners everywhere. Fiberglass doors come insulated with a dense foam, and will not rust or dent.
• Security – Steel and fiberglass entry doors provide added security. As a homeowner, this is a big concern and not everyone can afford a whole home security system. Even if you have a security system, you may still want an entry door that provides extra security for you and your family. While it is largely the lock and the doorjamb that are key to preventing or thwarting break-ins, it never hurts to have a door made of a strong material.

Look Great and Easy to Maintain

• Low Maintenance – Steel and fiberglass doors both require very little maintenance. As opposed to installing another type of door, the upkeep is very minimal with steel and fiberglass. Keep in mind though, steel doors can dent easily, so if that is of concern to you a fiberglass door may be best.
• Appearance – Steel and fiberglass doors come in a wide variety of styles. Both steel and fiberglass doors can be painted, and you can purchase them with glass or wood elements if you want to upgrade. Steel doors cannot be stained, while fiberglass ones can be. You can purchase a fiberglass door either with smooth skin for paint only, or with textured skin for paint or stain.
  Both doors require little maintenance, but keep in mind that the maintenance will increase if you choose a door that has wood or glass elements.

Price and Efficiency

• Cost – Installing a fiberglass or steel entry door can increase the value of your home, even if you’re not looking to sell anytime soon.
  Solid doors can often be costly, and unfortunately aren’t always as durable. Going with a steel or fiberglass door is a great choice if you’re looking for affordability as well as durability. According to a 2016 report on popular remodels, those who put in a new steel front door spent an average of $1,335 and recouped 92% of their investment in the home’s resale value.
• Energy Efficiency – Both steel and fiberglass doors typically have more insulation than wood doors. Keeping your energy bills as low as possible is definitely on every homeowner’s wish list. Models that are Energy Star-qualified must be independently tested and certified, and often boast tighter-fitting frames, energy-efficient cores, and, for models with glass, double- or triple-panel insulating glass to reduce heat transfer.

In summary, if you’re looking for affordability, durability and low maintenance, then a steel or fiberglass door is your best choice.
If possible, shop for doors in person — such as in a showroom, so you can really get a sense of their look and feel.