Steel vs Fiberglass Doors

You have quite a few options when it comes to what kind of door to buy for your front entrance. Owners of both commercial and residential properties swear by two of the most popular materials on the market: steel and fiberglass. Both have a great deal to recommend. But let’s take a closer look at the debate of steel vs fiberglass doors. In this way, we can see which is ideal for your home.

The Advantages of Steel Doors

The most significant advantage that steel doors have is they are markedly more durable and longer-lasting than fiberglass.

However, this is not the only reason why you may decide to install a steel door. In terms of appearance, many models of steel doors are more beautiful than fiberglass models, with a variety of stains and woodgrain finishes to dress up the metallic appearance of the door’s core composition. This material is resistant to cracking or warping as a result of temperature changes. Also, owners of the doors rave about how low-maintenance they are. Even if they are dented or dinged through normal wear and tear, a little bit of putty and polish is usually sufficient to buff out the damage.

They also have a high degree of insulation providing a higher degree of energy efficiency. Their tight seal makes heating and cooling systems expend far less energy to make your home a comfortable temperature. Perhaps the most common reason people choose steel over fiberglass is the security that they provide. Heavy-duty steel doors with high-end locking mechanisms are extraordinarily difficult to break into.

The Benefits of Fiberglass Doors

The main reason why homeowners choose fiberglass entry doors in Baltimore, MD is for their aesthetic appeal. While steel doors can provide a long-lasting appearance and durability, some models of fiberglass doors outshine them at the time of installation. Fiberglass construction allows for a wider variety of paints, stains, and finishes. They also have more options when it comes to decorative flourishes or glassware to include windows.

Unlike steel doors, fiberglass doors can be repainted to match the house if you decide to change the color of your home. Fiberglass doors are also preferred by those who live in climates that include sharp swings in temperature or high humidity. They are less likely to shrink or expand in extreme temperatures and remain easy to open and close throughout the year.

Although they do not last as long as steel doors, they usually endure for ten years or more without the need for any maintenance. The only maintenance needed in the first ten years of a fiberglass door’s service life includes washing with soap and water and occasional refinishing. Some models may also provide a boost to energy efficiency in your home, but may not meet the standard of efficiency of metal doors. While better in terms of security than wooden doors, they cannot compete with the security provided by metal doors.