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 doors don't rust, scratch, or corrode.
Drawbacks of Fiberglass Exterior Doors
The disadvantages of fiberglass doors include: Price – While not as costly as some types of wood, fiberglass is one of the more expensive options on the market. Sizing – The material is difficult to trim, so it's not well-suited for exterior doors that aren't standard sizes.
Use a hard topcoat.
The door's topcoat should be reapplied often — every two years if not exposed to direct sunlight and up to every six months if there is no overhang and a lot of direct sunlight.
Direct Sunlight
Consider a fiberglass, insulated door. A fiberglass door is going to be long-lasting and resist sun damage, while wood may weather, and metal will get hot. Avoid doors that have glass in them if your door is frequently in direct sun, or make sure the glass is properly treated and insulated.
Warping. Warping of the fiberglass cores occurs when the boat is exposed to intense heat for extended periods of time. The plastic and foam materials that make up the boat's fiberglass substrate are especially prone to deformation when subjected to too much sun.
Fiberglass products that are continuously exposed to UV radiation may succumb to unsightly color fading. This phenomenon is not unique to fiberglass, however, and it has no bearing on the structural integrity of the part.
If the fiberglass enclosure is not manufactured with a UV inhibitor, the UV rays of the sun will break down and weaken the fiberglass over time. If you are considering a fiberglass enclosure or fiberglass shelter, be sure to ask the manufacturer for details concerning the UV inhibitor.
However, they absorb heat and can become hot to the touch in direct sunlight. This can create a potentially harmful situation while using the door. Fiberglass doors are the top choice for handling direct sunlight.
The good news is that there is an option for homeowners who must contend with a hot climate: fiberglass doors. Fiberglass is a remarkably durable material that will hold strong even after years of facing the hot sun.
For hot weather, you'll need a front door able to withstand constant heat. A thermally broken door will keep the heat outside and the cool inside of the house. This door can be made of any material, but wrought iron and fiberglass are the most common options.
Factory Prefinished Fiberglass Door Care & Maintenance Guide
And like any piece of your home's exterior it needs proper care and periodic maintenance to keep it in top condition. Cleaning—To clean your door please use mild soap in warm water and a non-abrasive, clean rag. You will need to let the door air dry.
Note: We recommend that all six sides (front and back faces plus all four edges) be sealed to eliminate moisture absorption. The bottom of your door panel(s) may contain a factory installed weather-stripping (sweep) which is sealed prior to installation.
Most manufacturers would like you to believe the answer is yes. Although other companies would require painting once every 18-24 months, conservation constructions doors work in an entirely different way.
They are also typically more affordable than heavy steel or custom wood doors. Fiberglass doors, on average, can last up to 70 years.
Durable — In addition to minimal maintenance requirements, fiberglass doors are exceptionally durable. They don't chip or dent like a wood or steel door might, which makes them a great option for your front door — the barrier between your home and the outside world.
Durability Evaluations
Exterior fiberglass doors are molded with no breaks or seams, so they're impervious to moisture and rot. Wooden doors are naturally sensitive to moisture and will deteriorate over time, even with constant upkeep.
In terms of whether the door should be darker or lighter than the house, it really depends on the specific situation. Generally, a darker door can create a sense of drama and contrast, while a lighter door can create a more subtle and cohesive look,' says Kimberly Horton of KH Home Design.
A steel door is your best bet if security and durability are top priorities. Steel units are stronger than wood or fiberglass doors, and they won't crack or warp.
Composite doors are built to be UV-ray resistant, but in severe cases, the sun can cause a new or old door to warp and swell. Warping is a common problem for most doors, and unfortunately, composite doors can fall under this category.
Fiberglass exterior doors are among the strongest on the market. They're also some of the most energy-efficient.
Fiberglass Entry Doors
This exterior door material offers the lowest maintenance and does not warp or crack under climate pressure. They're also resistant to denting and scratching, unlike steel or wood doors.
Eyes may become red and irritated after exposure to fiberglass. Soreness in the nose and throat can result when fibers are inhaled. Asthma and bronchitis can be aggravated by exposure to fiberglass. Temporary stomach irritation may occur if fibers are swallowed.
Fiberglass boats and fiberglass roofing have been known to last up to 50 years! Even under tough conditions, the mechanical properties and microstructural integrity of fiberglass can last for longer than 15 years.
There isn't a definite figure or set number of years per-say. But you may be surprised to know that fiberglass insulation can last anywhere between 80 and 100 years. As long as the material is not exposed to too much moisture and is not broken by human interference, it should be fine.