Fiberglass Doors Vs. Steel Doors

Although replacing your damaged front door is a very important decision that should be taken seriously, many homeowners will neglect the situation for far longer than they should. Drafty front doors can reduce your level of home comfort and increase the cost of your energy bills. If you have to struggle to close, or lock your front door, perfecting your wiggle and twist techniques in the process, it is likely time for a replacement.

You’d be surprised at how many people regret not replacing their entry door sooner, despite the cost associated with the project. A brand-new door not only adds to the curb appeal of your home, it is also much more comforting to know that your entry door is as sturdy and functional as its expected to be.

If you are currently in the market for a front door replacement on your home, the only way to be sure that you receive the door that will work best for your home, is to research your options thoroughly. The two main types of entry doors, are steel doors, and fiberglass doors and both of which will have their own unique negatives and benefits. After considering the following features of both types of front door, you should be better equipped to make the best decision for you and your home.

Fiberglass Doors

• Curb Appeal

Older style wooden doors are rising in popularity as of late, luckily you do not need to install a heavy wood door to achieve this same look. Fiberglass doors can be manufactured to resemble a wide variety of different woods, like oak, cherry, and mahogany. Fiberglass doors can also be stained or painted to resemble a number of materials. If a wooden look is what you have your heart set on, it is important to work with a quality window and door contractor. This ensures that you will not receive a fiberglass door that is finished poorly, resembling fake wood.

• Strength & Durability

Unlike wooden doors, fiberglass doors are not susceptible to shrinkage, and will not warp or degrade over time. This makes fiberglass doors a wise choice for Canadians, considering our tumultuous climate. The humidity, and frigid temperatures that make up our annual weather conditions, will not destroy your new entry door.

• Maintenance

Fiberglass doors are also a great choice if you are looking for a low maintenance entry door. As fiberglass doors are mostly resistant to scratches and dents, they will only require a quick scrub down with soapy water to maintain their aesthetic qualities. The best part about fiberglass doors, is that they can be refinished at any time to match your exterior, should a change of scenery be in order. If you consider refinishing your fiberglass door it is important to hire a professional to ensure a flawless and quality finished product.

• Energy Conservation

Fiberglass doors are energy efficient by design. They have been engineered as such to ensure that heat is kept out in the summer, and your home is protected from cold air in the winter months. If saving money on your energy costs is a selling point for you, fiberglass doors may be your best choice.

• Value & Security

Fiberglass doors are comparable in price to most traditional wooden doors, though they can be slightly more expensive than steel doors. This is due to fact that fiberglass doors are made to be much more complex systems. While fiberglass doors may have a higher initial cost, they do tend to have a longer life expectancy due to their durability, so they should add more value to your home as well. Fiberglass doors are built to withstand many things, break ins included. These types of doors provide greatly increased security, over wooden doors.

If you are looking for a secure and energy efficient door that will add a great deal of value and curb appeal to your home, fiberglass may be the best choice for you.

Steel Doors

• Curb Appeal

Steel doors have a very unique and attractive look. They also come in a wide variety of design options, so you are likely to find something that strikes your fancy with this choice. Steel doors can also be painted to match your homes existing exterior design. To ensure that your steel doors remains attractive, we recommend having a professional complete the painting.

• Strength & Durability

While steel doors are very strong, and can withstand our Canadian weather conditions, they are not dent resistant. Steel doors will not warp or degrade when faced with humidity, freezing temperatures or moisture. There is however a good chance that your steel door will develop dents over time, reducing its attractiveness.

• Maintenance

Steel doors are relatively low maintenance installations, though they do require more maintenance than fiberglass doors in certain situations. If your steel door is scratched through the galvanization, rust can develop fairly quickly if neglected. In this case, your steel door will need to be re-primed and painted to ensure that its look and effectiveness can continue.

• Energy Conservation

When compared to traditional wooden doors, steel doors provide far more energy efficiency. How energy efficient your steel door is, will depend greatly on the coating used and the quality of installation. That being said, many steel doors are now Energy Star certified, and are a great choice if reducing your carbon footprint is something that you strive for.

• Value & Versatility

Steel doors are fairly cost-effective, and generally have a fairly long lifespan, if properly maintained. While the cost will vary depending on the style of steel door that you choose, it should still be one of the most affordable options. Due to its energy efficiency, steel doors can also reduce your heating and cooling costs significantly, adding even more value to your home. Both Fiberglass doors and steel doors are the most common choices for energy efficiency. Steel doors are very commonly used on commercial buildings, though they have become quite popular for residential purposes as well. This makes steel doors very versatile installations.

At AM Windows & Door Solutions, we offer both steel and fiberglass doors. We are highly experienced and guarantee a flawless and effective installation every time. Contact us today for a complimentary consultation with one of our knowledgeable window and doors experts.