Steel or Fiberglass Entry Door: What to Choose?
Shannon Ruffell is vice president of Heritage Renovations.
When in the market for a new front door, many homeowners struggle with this question: Should I go with a steel or fiberglass entry door? Both are popular choices for homeowners looking for durable and energy-efficient options. If you’re trying to decide between these two great options, here are some key points of comparison:
1. Material
- Steel Doors: These doors are made of steel, which makes them strong and resistant to dents and dings.
- Fiberglass Doors: Fiberglass doors are made of a composite material that includes glass fibers and resin. They are known for being durable, resistant to dents, and not prone to rust or corrosion.
2. Appearance
- Steel Doors: Steel doors often have a smooth surface and can be painted in a variety of colours. They may have a more industrial or utilitarian appearance.
- Fiberglass Doors: Fiberglass doors mimic the look of wood and can be stained or painted to achieve a variety of finishes. They often have a more natural and warm appearance.
3. Insulation
- Steel Doors: Steel doors can conduct heat and cold but top rated brands have a dense foam core that is a great insulator.
- Fiberglass Doors: Fiberglass doors are generally better insulators than steel doors. They have a higher R-value and can help maintain a more consistent indoor temperature.
Video: In this video, filmed at our showroom in London, we highlight some of the key features that distinguish steel and fiberglass entry doors from one another.
4. Maintenance
- Steel Doors: Steel doors that are factory painted require little to no maintenance.
- Fiberglass Doors: Fiberglass doors are low-maintenance but if they are exposed to a lot of sun it is recommended to apply a clear coat every few years. They are resistant to warping, cracking, and rotting.
5. Security
- Steel Doors: Steel doors are known for their strength and can provide excellent security. They are resistant to forced entry and can be reinforced with additional security features.
- Fiberglass Doors: Fiberglass doors are also strong and can be equipped with security features such as a multi point locking system.
6. Cost
- Steel Doors: Steel doors are generally more budget-friendly than fiberglass doors, making them a cost-effective option for homeowners.
- Fiberglass Doors: Fiberglass doors tend to be more expensive than steel doors, but their durability and energy efficiency may justify the higher cost for some homeowners.
In short, the choice between steel and fiberglass entry doors depends on your priorities, budget, and the specific requirements of your home. Both materials offer benefits, and the decision often comes down to personal preferences and the climate in which you live.
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- Steel doors often have a smooth surface and can be painted in a variety of colours.
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- Fiberglass doors mimic the look of wood and can be stained, pictured above, or painted.
Planning on replacing your entry door? Look no further than Heritage Renovations. As a leading window and door installation company in Southwestern Ontario, based in London, we are here to assist you. Get in touch with us today to book a free consultation! Fill out our request for quotation form, or simply give us a call at 519-652-1575.
