Pros and Cons of Fiberglass Entry Doors

Wood doors give you a high-end appearance and great insulation, but require a lot more maintenance. Over time, they can warp, fade, scratch, swell, or rot. Steel doors are stronger and can have a better insulation, but they also lack aesthetics and easily scratch and dent. So what are you supposed to do? Luckily, those are not the only options. You can get fiberglass entry doors that look like wood, have the strength of steel, and provide unmatched insulation. Fiberglass doors are fairly modern, and manufacturers are still experimenting with new styles and techniques. In recent years, they have grown more popular. Before you consider the options, here’s what you should know about these products.

Advantages of Fiberglass Entry Doors

Here are a few reasons why so many homeowners choose fiberglass doors:

1. Durability

Fiberglass doors work well in almost any climate, even extreme cold and damp conditions. Unlike wood, fiberglass doors do not warp, crack, or rot. And unlike steel, the replacement doors don’t rust, scratch, or corrode. Fiberglass is built to last and will not require yearly re-finishing to stay in top shape.

2. Versatility

Fiberglass doors come in a variety of sizes, styles, and finishes. You can get them built to fit your opening with a factory finish to match your personal taste. Or you can choose factory-primed doors that you can stain or paint on your own.

3. Appearance

Want the appearance of real wood without the maintenance of traditional products? Fiberglass doors look just like real wood and only the closest inspection betrays the truth. They are classy and elegant, allowing you to make the best first impression possible to anyone visiting your home.

4. Insulation

These doors reduce heat transfer and improve energy efficiency. This can make a big difference in your energy bills as well as improve the comfort by helping to maintain the temperature.

5. Security

Fiberglass doors are durable and very resilient. Manufacturers fit them with secure locks. They are designed to resist the elements, but also deter criminals so you can feel safe inside your home.

6. Warranty

Because these products are designed to be resilient, durable and secure, they often come with a warranty to back them up. Long warranties are one reason why so many people choose to upgrade to fiberglass entry doors in Portland, OR.

Disadvantages of Fiberglass Entry Doors

Along with many advantages, there are some drawbacks that come with fiberglass doors, including:

1. Price

While certainly not as expensive as oak or mahogany entry doors, fiberglass is still pricey. Compared to standard wood, vinyl, and steel doors, fiberglass is one of the more expensive doors on the market. That said, they are also more cost effective because they last long and require less maintenance.

2. Sizing

It is almost impossible to trim down a fiberglass door to fit a frame that is too small. It also isn’t cost effective for manufacturers to make single doors in an odd size. So if your door is not a standard size, you might have trouble getting a custom fiberglass door.

3. Fitting

Standard wood doors are easy to place yourself. You simply purchase the door, remove the old one, and fit the new one into the existing frame. But fiberglass doors come as a full unit. That means fitting should be done by a professional installer.

If you want more information on window replacement Portland, OR, call EnergyGuard Windows and Doors. Our professionals can walk you through our best products and find something to suit your needs, style, and budget. Call 503-554-5500 to schedule a design appointment.