The decision to replace your front entry door is an important one, in fact most people don’t make the move to replace the front door as soon as they should. When the cold air starts seeping in and the energy bills are on a steady incline. How about the wriggle, lift, and twist moves you may of perfected in order to open, close, and lock the door?
It’s not that you got to know your door well enough to know it’s tricks, it’s probably because it’s no longer functioning the way it used to. It’s probably old, worn, and needs replacing.The great news is that the vast majority of people, despite the cost of replacing a door, say it was the best decision they’ve made and they should’ve done it sooner. Their home has that much more appealing and it feels good to have a door that feels sturdy and works well, without all the kinks.
So, if you’re in the market for a replacement front entry door for your home, you’re probably considering all the options out there. One major thing to consider like, paper or plastic at the supermarket, is the main difference between steel doors and fibreglass doors. Which one is better suited for your home? Well, only you would be best equipped to make that decision after considering these features and benefits of both replacement door types:
Fibreglass Entry Doors
Aesthetic
Old world rustic doors are trending right now, but that doesn’t mean you have to get an old slab of wood to protect your home from the outdoor elements. The look of authentic defined wood grain textures in a multitude of shades like oak, cherry, mahogany, weathered grey, including a variety of stains and paints can be achieved with fibreglass. Additionally, fiberglass entry doors offer so many options for door glass. Bear in mind that some fibreglass doors, depending on how it’s finished can look like fake wood so it’s really important to work with a quality window and doors company that can offer your the best quality possible.
Durability
Speaking of wood, fibreglass doors won’t shrink, warp, split, or crack like wooden doors would over time. Which makes it an ideal choice for Canadians that endure harsh weather climates both freezing and humidity.
Maintenance
Not all things good looking have to be high maintenance. Fiberglass entry doors are one of those special things that have great aesthetic appeal while having the lowest maintenance required to keep them looking brand new. It is resistant to denting, scratching, and can be cleaned with any common mild soap and water. Fibreglass doors can also be refinished if you’re ever looking to change the style of it however, it’s important to have it done by a professional.
Energy-efficiency
Fiberglass entry door systems are engineered to be highly energy efficient. The polyurethane core, high-performance, heat-resistant window trim, Q-Lon weatherstripping and ComforTech Warm Edge Glazing System in ProVia entry door systems work together to keep the cold out in the winter and heat out in the summer. All ProVia entry doors without glass are ENERGY STAR certified and many models with glass also meet ENERGY STAR standards.
Security
Fibreglass has a solid construction, providing significant security over the traditional type wooden doors.
Value
Fiberglass doors can be comparable in cost to wood doors but you’ll find that they will generally more expensive than steel, the material is simply more complex. In terms of value, since fibreglass doors typically offer longer durability and less maintenance, it certainly offers more value to your home over the long-term.
Steel Entry Doors
Aesthetic
Steel entry doors look great and if you’re looking for a front door type that will offer you a ton of design options, steel may be the way to go. Steel entry doors are available in a wide variety of door styles and can be easily painted.
Durability
Steel doors are well, “made of steel”. In other words, you can expect a steel entry door to be very strong and durable, it won’t crack or warp due to harsh climate conditions, moisture or humidity. However, it may be susceptible to dents if hit hard enough.
Maintenance
Steel doors are generally considered low maintenance, although if scratched through the galvanization, these doors can rust if not properly attended to. It will need to be primed and painted again in order to maintain the material.
Energy Efficiency
Steel entry doors offer significantly more energy efficiency than wood doors. Efficiency ratings will vary based on overall construction and they will only perform as well as they are installed, but depending on the glazing option chosen, many steel entry doors with glass also are ENERGY STAR certified.
Value
Steel entry doors are one of the more affordable options available and offer significant long-term value. Total cost can vary widely depending on door style and options chosen. Replacing your old door with a new energy-efficient door can instantly add value to your home, steel and fibreglass is two of the most common types of doors preferred for optimal energy-efficiency.
Versatility
Steel entry doors are quite versatile and are also commonly used in commercial applications but also well-suited for residential purposes.Clera Windows and Doors offers both steel and fibreglass entry doors. Contact one of our window and door experts to get some insight on the best window type for your home and to set a free consultation.
