Is it finally time to replace that aging entry door on your home? Are you building your dream home or preparing to put your property on the market and want to make the best front door choice?
These days, you have plenty of options when it comes to front door materials. Two of the more popular choices are fiberglass and wood. Both have advantages and disadvantages, so you’ll want to do some research before choosing one or the other. We’re here to help.
Overview of Fiberglass and Wood Entry Doors
Wood doors have been the “gold standard” for American homes since colonial times when homeowners had fewer material choices. The wood used to construct entry doors is readily available and consists of various lumber types. Some of the more popular hardwoods for doors include oak, fir, pine, mahogany, maple, walnut and cherry.
Fiberglass is a relative newcomer to the entry door world. Unlike naturally sourced wood, fiberglass is a synthetic material created by layering silicate fibers, or glass, with resin or epoxy. Many fiberglass doors also include a polyurethane foam core in the middle that provides insulation against extreme temperatures.
Wood vs. Fiberglass Front Door: Which Is Better?
Whether a wood or fiberglass entry door is the right choice for your home depends on how you assess the following factors:
- Cost: Wood doors are typically more expensive than fiberglass, although the price varies depending on the hardwood material’s quality. Engineered wood doors consisting of various wood derivative products are available, and they can provide a more cost-effective alternative.
- Durability: Fiberglass doors have seen considerable quality improvements in recent years, increasing their longevity. Unlike wood, today’s fiberglass material won’t chip or dent. Solid wood doors are also durable, although they’re susceptible to moisture damage and fading due to prolonged exposure to the sun’s UV rays.
- Appearance: For generations, homeowners have been attracted to the natural look and timeless style of solid wood doors. It’s also possible to stain wood doors to achieve the ideal finish. On the other hand, human-made fiberglass doors offer virtually limitless customization possibilities, including a look that closely replicates genuine wood. However, many buyers still prefer the traditional appearance of the real thing.
- Maintenance: Fiberglass doors are easier to care for than their wood counterparts. Fiberglass will retain its looks without frequent restaining or repainting. Periodically wiping the door with a microfiber cloth saturated in acetone will remove dust, dirt and debris.
- Energy efficiency: While a solid hardwood door offers excellent protection against the elements, fiberglass lets you customize the level of insulation your door provides. Wood doors may also swell as they age, making them more difficult to open and close and allowing air to enter and escape.
Fiberglass Entry Door vs. Wood: Quality Overhead Door Can Help You Decide
If you live in northwestern Ohio or southeastern Michigan, trust the professionals at Quality Overhead Door to help you determine whether a fiberglass or wood front door is the right choice for your home. Get started right now by viewing our current residential door lineup. You can also request an estimate or contact us online for additional product and pricing information.
Additional Resources on Entry Doors:
- How to Choose Front Door Hardware
- Small Home Improvements Pack a Big Punch
- How What is the Best Material for a Front Door
- What are the Parts of a Front Door