Fiberglass doors are typically more expensive than steel but less expensive than high-end wood doors. But since fiberglass lasts longer and is easier to maintain than wood and steel, many homeowners prefer it.
Steel can be an excellent option if you have security concerns. Since it's a heavy, tough material, steel entry doors are very difficult to break down. Fiberglass doors are still a pretty secure choice, but they're far more lightweight than steel and are easier to manipulate.
The main price difference between steel and fiberglass doors is not in the door cost itself but in the cost of painting the door. A steel door comes factory painted white and does not have to be painted unless you want a different colour.
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.
Exterior steel doors are the most durable and provide the best defense against unwanted visitors. Fiberglass doors are slightly less durable, but they require less maintenance because they aren't prone to rusting.
Steel Door Disadvantages
Denting and Rusting – While steel doors cannot warp they can be dented if hit by something, and if the paint on the door gets chipped off at the dent then rusting can develop with the metal being exposed to the moisture in the air.
Regarding durability, fiberglass doors are long-lasting and cannot be warped or weather-damaged like wood. They can, however, dent and crack but are usually repairable. Steel entry doors are incredibly strong and sturdy, resilient even in extreme weather, and last even longer than fiberglass.
Fiberglass doors are superior insulators and are suited for many climates — hot or cold, wet or dry. Unlike steel doors in wet climates, they are not susceptible to rust. Unlike steel, fiberglass does not transfer heat, which makes it a better choice for areas with greater seasonal fluctuations in temperature.
The sweet spot for a high-quality fiberglass entry door is $1,500 to $2,500. Add on about $400 to $800 to have a pro install it.
Fiberglass Exterior Doors
In a reasonably protected location, a fiberglass exterior door will never need painting or staining and can last 15 to 20 years. Although it feels lighter than wood or steel, it is extremely durable and features an extremely durable coating that is difficult to breach.
Steel and fiberglass front doors require the least amount of maintenance. They're made from durable materials that resist dents and scratches, with a long-lasting finish.
A steel door is considered to be the strongest type of door. However, only by a small margin over wood and fiberglass. Steel doors are by far the least expensive entry door on the market.
Steel provides the best long-term value in the door and frame industry. It lasts longer, requires the fewest repairs, and is sturdier than other products. Steel's natural strength also outperforms other materials in security, fire rating, sound reduction, vandal resistance, sanitation, and more.
Fiberglass exterior doors are among the strongest on the market. They're also some of the most energy-efficient. Fiberglass is a poor conductor of heat, making it energy-efficient on its own, but when insulation is added, it's hard to beat.
Fiberglass doors are often thought of as maintenance-free, but over time they can start to show wear and tear. If you want to keep your fiberglass doors looking like new, you may need to give them a fresh coat of paint from time to time.
Steel doors are a more durable option, and they are less likely to be damaged by sunlight than wood. 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.
Fiberglass doors are more durable than steel or wood doors, as they never rot, warp, or rust, giving them a lifespan of several decades. Additionally, they hold up against dents, scratches, insects, and fire better than most, meaning they need less maintenance. The worst that can happen is they need to be painted.
In addition to being durable and low-maintenance, the insulative properties of fiberglass make fiberglass doors a prime option for keeping the cold out—especially as this will help you avoid high energy bills during the winter months.
Fiberglass doesn't dent, but if it takes an exceptionally hard hit, it can crack. This isn't the most appealing look, and it can damage your energy efficiency. Fortunately, you can repair cracks with a bonding agent used for fiberglass doors.
When it comes to energy efficiency, fiberglass exterior doors are one of the best options on the market. Fiberglass exterior doors are manufactured with a solid polyurethane foam core that insulates the door against extreme temperatures.
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.
Fiberglass doors withstand the elements without cracking or bowing. They won't rust, rot, or warp, and aren't susceptible to insect infestation or corrosion. Fiberglass doesn't shrink or swell like wood, meaning your door won't get jammed in the summer, or let in the drafts come winter.
Steel security doors provide a layer of protection that is much harder to penetrate than traditional door materials. They are also more durable and easier to lock, making them a great choice for commercial premises owners looking for extra security.
Custom steel doors cost more than their wood, aluminum, and vinyl cousins because of the extra processes and labor that goes into building them.
The Value of Steel Windows & Doors
For instance, it's estimated that replacing your existing entry door with a steel door can provide nearly a 100 percent return on investment. This means the amount by which your home value increases is almost equal to the cost of your new entry door.