An attractive entry door on your home is a dramatic way to make a good first impression. Practically speaking, it is also your first line of protection between you and the outside world, so you want it to be secure. And finally, a quality entry door can help you reduce your energy costs.
The most popular entry doors are made from either fiberglass or steel. A stroll through any home improvement store will reveal a selection of each, but how do you decide which to choose? Let’s take a look at our four main criteria: appearance, security, energy efficiency, and cost.
Appearance
Both fiberglass and steel entry doors can look terrific but have their own characteristics. The good news is that neither fiberglass or steel will rot, shrink, warp, or swell like wood entry doors tend to do over time.
Fiberglass
Fiberglass entry doors offer the greatest selection of styles, colors, and grains. Many homeowners choose to pay a little extra for a fiberglass door that appears almost indistinguishable from a more expensive wood door. Fiberglass doors are maintenance-free.
Steel
Steel entry doors offer less variety, but now can also be made to look like wood. Steel doors require occasional maintenance to prevent rust if they are dented or scratched.
Security
You should be satisfied with the security levels that are provided by either fiberglass or steel entry doors.
Fiberglass
Fiberglass can be manipulated or cracked, although it takes significant force to do either.
Steel
Steel is a tougher material and is harder to break because of the hold it provides in the frame of your home.
Energy Efficiency
The differences in energy efficiency between quality fiberglass entry doors and steel entry doors are minimal. Both types of doors typically contain polyurethane foam insulation that delivers a rating of R-5 or R-6. If you choose a door design that features one or more glass panels in the door, your energy efficiency rating will drop considerably regardless of the type of door you choose.
Cost
The price you pay for your entry door will vary based on considerations such as style, quality, size, and where you live.
Fiberglass
You can usually get a standard fiberglass door for $800-$2,500. You should expect to pay $3,000-$5,000 if you want to buy the door and have it installed. The price rises significantly for oversized doors.
Steel
Steel entry doors are great if you are on a budget. Depending to some extent on the thickness of the steel, these doors usually cost $300-$1,000. Figure $1,000-$3,000 fully installed. Again, oversized doors cost more.
Conclusion
You can’t go wrong with either a fiberglass entry door or a steel entry door for your home. Both types can provide you with a selection of styles and colors that look great. They are both secure, durable, low-or-no-maintenance, and sufficiently energy efficient. Your final choice will be driven by the look and style that best compliments your home and your budget.
If you want to learn more about steel and fiberglass entry doors, then we invite you to call us at (416) 717-2730 or send us a message through our contact page.
