The newest type of door used in homes, composite doors are becoming more popular in the housing materials market. Fiberglass and wood composite doors are one of the most common kinds of composite doors. Wood composite doors are more commonly used for interior doors, while fiberglass-composite doors are good choices for exterior front entry doors. Read on for more information about composite doors.
What are Composite Doors?
Usually built with a uPVC steel reinforced frame, composite doors can include a variety of different hardwoods for the door's solid interior core. While composite doors look like traditional hardwood, composite doors avoid the problems that are common to wood doors, such as wood rot, sun bleaching, or other serious maintenance needs. Composite doors are durable and virtually maintenance-free.
Fiberglass-composite doors, most commonly known as simply fiberglass doors, are made from a type of fiber-reinforced plastic. The fiber is made from fine glass fibers. Voids in the framework are filled with polyurethane-foam insulation. Like other composite doors, this type is also tough and maintenance free. They are an excellent choice for climates with harsh weather, including high levels of moisture and fluctuating temperatures. Fiberglass mimics the look of wood and can be stained to match a certain species of wood.
Composite Door Costs
The final cost for a typical composite front door depends on the door size, the materials used, the color and design, and the inclusion of extra features such as glass inserts. Prices for basic composite doors usually begin somewhere between $500 and $1000, with another potential $150 for installation costs. Although composite doors tend to be slightly more expensive than other materials, many manufacturers and retailers offer lengthy warranties on composite doors due to their excellent durability and performance. Because of composite door's long lifespans, homeowners rarely end up needing their warranties.
Energy Efficient Composite Doors
While they are initially more expensive, the outside GRP glazing on composite doors prevents the door from warping, shrinking, or rusting, making your investment more durable and energy efficient. GRP has a better strength-to-weight ratio than ordinary steel. Consequently, GRP is a natural insulating material and is one of the reasons why composite doors are so strong and durable. Since GRP coatings boost the doors' thermal efficiency and your home's overall energy efficiency, composite doors can help to maintain consistent interior temperatures, reducing your home's monthly energy bills.
Bottom Line: A Low-Maintenance, Durable, and Sleek Material
Composite doors combine the advantages of other door materials into one elegantly crafted design. It's no surprise, then, that composite doors are quickly becoming an increasingly popular choice over other front door materials. With an energy efficient coating that correlates to minimal maintenance and lower energy costs with composite doors, homeowners are able to present an entrance to their home that is not only beautiful, but easy to care for as well.
