Choosing the right entry door for your home can have a significant impact on its curb appeal as well as functionality. When it comes to deciding between fiberglass and wood doors, homeowners must consider more than just aesthetics.
In this guide, we will compare fiberglass vs. wood doors and discuss the key differences to help you decide which material is best for your home. By the end you will have a better understanding of which door is best for your needs.
Contents
What are the Key Differences Between Fiberglass and Wood Doors?
Your front door makes the first impression when visitors enter your home, and it must provide excellent security for the people inside. Front doors made of materials such as fiberglass and wood have special benefits and provide one-of-a-kind curb appeal. When deciding whether to use fiberglass or wood doors, several factors must be considered.
In general, if you want something that is energy efficient, secure, and long-lasting, a fiberglass door could be a better choice. A wood door on the other hand, could be the best option for you if you prefer classic character, charm, a natural look and something that will last for many years. Each material has unique features, so understanding them can help you make the best decision for your needs.
Energy Efficiency
Fiberglass doors are far more energy efficient than wood doors. Fiberglass has a higher thermal resistance because it is made with a solid polyurethane foam core, which reduces heat transfer, keeping your home warmer in the winter and cooler in summer.
While wood doors provide some insulation, they do not compare to fiberglass in terms of energy efficiency. Although solid wood has natural insulating properties, temperature changes can cause wood doors to expand and contract, resulting in gaps around the edges and reducing their ability to keep air out.
Safety and Security
Wood doors are strong and durable, but an old and deteriorating door can make your home and family vulnerable to security threats. Fiberglass doors, on the other hand, provide greater security than most wood doors.
Fiberglass is extremely sturdy and strong for its weight, and will not be weakened by rot or rusted out areas. Because composite door frames do not rot, they provide a stronger hold for screws, resulting in increased security.
Durability
Fiberglass is much more resistant to sun exposure and weathering, and it will not warp or rot like wood does. Wood, on the other hand, requires a covered porch with no sunlight exposure due to expansion and contraction caused by heat.
Wood doors are durable, but they can be damaged by prolonged exposure to the sun, rain, snow, humidity, and other elements. Fiberglass doors are more resistant to harsh weather and last longer than wood, which rots, peels, cracks, and delaminates.
Maintenance
Maintenance should also be considered when deciding between fiberglass vs. wood doors. Wood doors require much more maintenance and attention than fiberglass doors. Wood doors that are exposed to heat, light, and humidity might bubble, peel, warp, or twist over time, resulting in regular maintenance to prevent fading and damage.
Fiberglass doors require little to no maintenance and can last for years without needing to be adjusted, repaired, or painted. Fiberglass needs the least amount of maintenance of any material, requiring only soap and water to clean.
Aesthetic
Fiberglass doors are extremely smooth and sleek. They come in a variety of styles, finishes, and colors. A popular design for fiberglass doors is one that looks and feels like wood. In terms of appearance, they compete with real wood doors.
Wood doors have a timeless, classic, and traditional appearance, with unlimited customization options to suit any design. Wood doors are ideal for achieving a simple, durable, and elegant appearance. Both doors have a similar appearance, but fiberglass doors provide more customization options than wood doors.
Cost
Fiberglass doors are often less expensive than wood doors, particularly if you want a door with similar energy efficiency and aesthetics. While some high-end fiberglass doors can be expensive, they are usually less expensive than high-quality hardwood doors, and their lower maintenance costs make them an affordable choice in the long run.
Wood doors, particularly those made of premium hardwoods, are more expensive both in terms of initial purchase and long-term maintenance. The labor and materials needed to maintain wood doors can add up over time, making them a more expensive investment than fiberglass options.
Pros and Cons of Wood Vs Fiberglass Doors
Pros of Fiberglass Door
Durability
Durability is one of the major benefits of fiberglass. This durability ensures that fiberglass doors can withstand a variety of weather conditions and last for decades without rotting, warping, or deteriorating. They’re also extremely resistant to dents and scratches, so they won’t need a lot of care to maintain their fresh appearance.
Energy Efficiency
Fiberglass doors are excellent for insulation. Their built-in insulation helps to keep indoor temperatures stable which improves the energy efficiency of your home. This can help you keep your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter, which reduces the energy costs. They can provide up to five times the insulation of a similar sized wood door.
Low Maintenance
Another advantage of fiberglass doors is their low maintenance. Cleaning a fiberglass door is as simple as wiping it down with a damp cloth to remove dust and dirt. Unlike wood doors, these doors do not require painting or staining as they are mold and mildew resistant. A simple cleaning with mild soap and water will usually keep them looking new.
Wide Range of Styles
Fiberglass doors are available in a variety of styles and can be painted or stained to complement the decor of your home. With fiberglass doors, you can choose a style that matches the aesthetic of your home. For instance, the finish and color can be easily changed to your liking. Whether you want a traditional door or something more modern, you’ll find a fiberglass door that meets your needs.
Cons of Fiberglass Door
Cost
Fiberglass doors are typically priced between wood and steel doors but higher quality options with improved aesthetics and thickness can be more expensive. While they may not be the most affordable option initially, the durability and long-term energy efficiency of these doors can save homeowners money in the long run. This makes fiberglass doors an excellent choice for those looking for a balance of performance and value.
Limited Aesthetic Options
Fiberglass doors are available in a variety of styles and finishes but they might not have the aesthetic richness and authentic look of natural wood. Although they can be stained to mimic wood grain, they never have the texture or warmth of real wood, which may be a disadvantage for homeowners who prefer a traditional or specific wood appearance. These doors provide some customization but the options are limited and finding unique molds is often more expensive.
Sizing
Fiberglass doors are typically designed to fit standard frame sizes which make them suitable for a variety of homes. However, if your door frame is small or uniquely shaped to find a fiberglass door that fits can be difficult. These doors are difficult to trim and resizing them can be time-consuming and expensive. This means that customizing a fiberglass door to fit may not be the most practical or cost-effective solution if your frame is non-standard.
Installation
The process of installing a fiberglass door is quite difficult. Wood doors can be installed by anyone with a drill but fiberglass doors are a little different. These doors are delivered as a complete unit and that’s why installation requires a trained professional to complete the work thoroughly. A fiberglass door might not be the best option for you if you prefer a more DIY approach.
Pros of Wood Door
Aesthetic Appeal
One of the main advantages of having a wood door is its aesthetic value. Wood doors provide a natural and timeless beauty that improves the curb appeal of any home. Whether you want a rustic look or something more modern, a classic wood door can work with any aesthetic. These doors are also available in a variety of wood species, finishes and styles to complement a wide range of architectural styles.
Sound Resistance
Wood is a natural sound insulator which makes it an excellent choice for doors where noise control is important. They help to reduce the impact of external sounds, such as traffic on busy roads that result in a quieter and more peaceful environment inside your home. Furthermore, wood doors can keep indoor noises from disturbing others that make them an excellent choice for multi-unit housing which include apartments or senior living facilities. They add an extra layer of privacy to ensure that residents have a more private and peaceful living space.
Insulation
Wood doors provide excellent insulation which allow you to keep your home at a comfortable temperature regardless of the season. Because of their natural insulating properties, they help keep cold air out in winter and heat inside in summer to make your home more energy efficient. They provide a strong barrier against the elements, reducing drafts and energy loss when properly framed, hung and maintained.
Durability
High-quality wood doors can be extremely long-lasting when they are maintained properly. These doors are extremely resistant to dents, scratches and other common forms of wear and tear when made from high-quality hardwood instead of composite wood or less expensive wood species. They are extremely durable and are able to maintain their beauty for many years with proper care.
Cons of Wood Door
Cost
Solid wood doors are more expensive than other materials that cost two to three times as much. This higher initial cost can be difficult for those on a tight budget. Apart from the initial cost, the maintenance required to keep the door in good condition such as periodic painting, sealing and repairs can increase the long-term cost. Wood doors may not be the best option if you want to save money.
High Maintenance
They provide numerous benefits but the need for regular maintenance is one of the disadvantages of wood doors. In order to preserve aesthetic appeal and protective qualities of the door, the paint or varnish needs to be applied frequently because it can eventually begin to fade, peel or crack. Without proper care wood doors can swell or become damaged which affects their function and security.
Vulnerability to Warping
Wood doors can warp especially in extreme weather conditions as wood is sensitive to temperature and humidity changes. These changes can cause doors to warp and shrink, crack or swell. This can lead to misalignment, trouble with operation and harm to the door and frame. If wood doors are not properly maintained such as by sealing them they might not last long in harsh weather.
Prone to Termite Damage
Wood doors are vulnerable to termite damage which may require costly repairs or replacement.
If a door is not properly maintained, such as with regular treatment or protective coatings, termites can easily infect and damage it. This makes wood doors a risky choice in termite-infested areas. Apply treatments like painting or varnishing on a regular basis which will help protect your door from moisture and insect damage.
Fiberglass vs Wood Doors: what should you choose?
Fiberglass is an excellent choice if you want the look of wood but prefer a low maintenance, energy efficient and long lasting material. Fiberglass doors have the appearance of wood but require little maintenance which makes them a practical choice for those looking for reliability with less effort.
On the other hand, if you value the real warmth and character that only natural wood can provide, a wood door might be the best choice. While wood doors are typically more expensive and require more maintenance to keep their beauty, they provide a timeless elegance that is difficult to match.
Ultimately, the choice between a fiberglass vs. wood door depends on your budget, maintenance preferences, climate considerations, and the overall style of your space.
FAQ’s
Is a wood or fiberglass door better?
Wood doors have a classic aesthetic, natural beauty and can be customized but they require more maintenance. Fiberglass doors are energy efficient, but they require little maintenance and last a long time which make them an excellent choice for homeowners looking for a durable and affordable option.
What are the disadvantages of a fiberglass door?
Fiberglass doors have several drawbacks. They have a higher upfront cost than other materials which might be an issue for people on a tight budget. Furthermore, fiberglass doors are difficult to install on your own so hiring an expert is usually required, which increases the cost. In extreme conditions, they might feel hot or cold to the touch which can be uncomfortable in certain climates.
What material is better for an exterior door?
Fiberglass doors are ideal for homeowners looking for durability and low maintenance but they can be more expensive. Wood doors, on the other hand, bring a classic, warm look to a home and can be customized easily. However, they require more maintenance to protect against weather and might not last as long as fiberglass in harsh climates.
What is the life expectancy of a fiberglass door?
A well-maintained fiberglass door can last for 20 to 30 years or more. This lifespan varies depending on the factors such as quality of materials, Installation, maintenance and environmental factors. By investing in a high-quality fiberglass door, homeowners can extend the life of their doors and enjoy years of reliable performance and curb appeal.
Conclusion
Both fiberglass and wood doors have their advantages and disadvantages, and your decision should align with your specific needs and style preferences. A well-chosen door will not only enhance your home’s aesthetics but also provide the comfort and security you desire whether you go with the modern versatility of fiberglass or the timeless charm of wood.
More questions about fiberglass vs wood door? Contact us today to make the process of selecting the best door for your space easy and hassle free. We provide expert solutions that are tailored to your needs.
