The front door of your home is one of the first things your guests will ever see – and you know what they say about first impressions! That front door is an opportunity to show off your style and give your guests a hint at what awaits inside.
In terms of practicality, your front door should be sturdy enough to stand up to the beating sun, blowing winds, rain, and any potential intruders. And a replacement front door should add energy efficiency and value to your home.
Fibreglass and steel doors are some of the most popular materials for front doors. But which one is best for you? Let’s understand more about them.
Fiberglass Entry Doors
Selecting a fiberglass model might seem counterintuitive for those who grew up with wood doors. But fiberglass is a modern, high-tech choice! It can even be made to mimic wood – you’d never tell the difference! One of the biggest advantages of choosing fiberglass is its ability to mimic the look of wood.
Woodgrain texture fiberglass can provide the look and feel of a traditional wooden door, with better performance and durability. Fiberglass doors will not dent, crack, or warp, and works great even in frigid temperatures – a significant consideration when you live in Canada.
They look great, require little upkeep, and last for years! You won’t have to worry about rotting, sanding, or repainting, all maintenance tasks associated with wood doors. In other words, you can get the wood look without the work!
What’s more, fiberglass front door systems are specifically designed to be highly energy-efficient. As a result, they respond well to humidity and temperature changes and prevent condensation.
Multi-point hardware can further improve the performance and security of fiberglass exterior doors. In addition, choosing warp or rust-resistant hardware can provide further longevity in humid climates.
Steel Entry Doors
Steel entry doors are ideal if durability and security are at the top of your priorities. It is extremely difficult to penetrate through steel doors, and they don’t expand or contract like other materials can.
Typically, the inside of a steel door consists of a foam core that’s surrounded by a wood rail for structural integrity. Doors are usually not made with steel cores because this would make them extremely heavy and difficult to operate.
In the past, steel doors have had a flat, industrial look to them, but that has changed with evolving tastes and technologies! Today, steel doors come in a wide variety of styles and textures. There is no doubt you’ll be able to find a style that fits your home and your tastes! And if you change your mind? Most steel doors can be easily repainted for a fresh new look without the price tag of a full door replacement.
When it comes to the price tag, the total cost of a steel door can vary widely depending on the style and options you choose. However, it can be more affordable, so it’s a good choice for homeowners on a budget who don’t want to compromise on style or quality. In fact, many people prefer the look of steel doors over other types.
Fiberglass vs Steel Door: How They Compare
Both material types offer some great advantages for homeowners. It’s no wonder fiberglass and steel are among the most popular materials for front doors! Both offer unique styles, durability, and energy efficiency to help keep your costs down. Deciding between the two depends on your own tastes and priorities.
Here are a few things to consider when deciding.
Fiberglass vs Steel Door: Cost
While prices vary based on model, design, and features chosen, steel doors can be the more economical choice. They are strong, secure, and durable, come in many styles, and can even be repainted to accommodate your preferences and update your exterior. The material feels very luxe, so while there might be options at a lower price point, you’ll still get the upscale look you’re seeking.
While fiberglass can be more expensive, it’s an excellent alternative to wood, both in terms of cost and maintenance. It’s generally priced lower than wood, and the product requires little upkeep.
Fiberglass vs Steel Door: Maintenance
Both fiberglass and steel doors are relatively easy to maintain. Fiberglass doors can be wiped down with a gentle soap solution and manually rinsed or with a hose on low pressure.
Steel can be wiped down as well, but it’s better to avoid excess water when cleaning. If there are scratches on the surface, it can lead to rust. If you do notice scratches, it’s a reasonably easy fix. A coat of paint will seal any mild cosmetic issues and keep your door good as new!
Fiberglass vs Steel Door: Energy Efficiency
Both fiberglass and steel are modern, energy-efficient choices that will make a big difference for your home, particularly if your current door is on the older side. New technologies have made doors more airtight and insulative to create a solid barrier between your home’s interior and the elements outside.
However, while both materials are quite energy-efficient, fiberglass in general, performs a bit better, since it’s not as sensitive to temperatures as steel can be. For example, this may be worth considering if your front door is east- or west-facing since it’ll be exposed to direct sunlight regularly.
Still undecided? Come into our showroom and look at the samples we have available before making a choice. You might be surprised by what you end up falling in love with. We carry an extensive selection of both door types, and we offer customization options to make your front door unique and your very own.
Whether you know exactly what you want or need a little guidance before deciding, give Torwin Windows and Doors a call today! Book your free, no-obligation consultation, and find the right door – one you’ll love for years- for your home.
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