Because it can be used to imitate most wood species, Fiberglass is quickly growing in popularity. Exterior fiberglass doors often feature classic finishes that range from walnut to mahogany. However, while they look like wood, fiberglass doors are often much easier to care for and maintain. Read on for more information to decide if fiberglass is a good fit for your home.
Costs
While they can be nearly indistinguishable from wood doors , exterior fiberglass doors are a much less expensive option. Fiberglass typically ranges from $200 to $900 for standard doors, with a higher price for more decorative designs.
Durability
To complement their relatively low cost, fiberglass exterior doors can go years with little to no upkeep. Unlike wood, fiberglass doors will not stretch, shrink, or warp and are highly resistant to harsh or humid climates. Additionally, fiberglass is not as susceptible as wood to dents, scratches, or splits in the material.
While wood often requires annual touch-ups or repairs, fiberglass may require only a single touch-up to its original finish. With proper maintenance and care, homeowners can expect their sturdy fiberglass doors to last decades, or even generations.
Treatment
Your fiberglass entry door can be treated and stained to mimic some of the most popular wood styles, such as oak, mahogany, and cherry. Using a new technology known as Accugrain, finishes can now duplicate the grain of wood. Although durable stains and clear, glossy finishes like polyurethane are generally ideal, fiberglass's strength provides some flexibility when considering different treatment options.
Repairs
Hardy fiberglass entry doors require little repair and maintenance, which is one of their most attractive qualities. Since fiberglass will not dent, decay, or warp, the only real risk posed to fiberglass doors is the finish fading over time from exposure to the sun. Homeowners can expect to touch up their door's finish on an as-needed basis.
Energy Efficiency and Tax Credits
Fiberglass is one of the most energy efficient options for exterior doors today, due to the fact that it will not stretch or shrink like other materials. Consequently, fiberglass provides excellent insulation for the home. Many Energy Star manufacturers produce fiberglass exterior doors that, due to their efficiency, have the Energy Star rating and qualify for tax credit as well. A fiberglass entry door typically falls between R-5 and R-6 or higher, while wood doors in comparison will generally have an R-value between R-2 and R-3.
Summary: An Efficient Choice for Your Home
For a fraction of the price, your fiberglass entry door offers the beautiful appearance of wood without wood's disadvantages, such as dents or decay. Perfect for harsh weather or humid climates, a fiberglass door will be a tasteful and affordable addition to any home for years to come. To get started installing an exterior fiberglass door, contact contractors in your area today.
Here you will find more information about different types of exterior doors such as storm doors, patio doors, aluminum doors and juniper doors.
