Which Type of Exterior Door is Best for You

Which type of exterior door is best for you – you have options! Your front door is the entryway to your home, so you not only want to make a great first impression you also want to choose something that is serviceable and stands up to the elements.  A well chosen, beautiful front door adds instant curb appeal.  It can also guard against the elements and protect your home. When it is time to replace your front door there are a number of choices available that will depend on your home design, personal preferences and needs while welcoming your guests.  

Fiberglass, Steel or Wood

There are basically three top choices for an exterior door – fiberglass, steel or wood – and each has it pros and cons.  The short answer is choose fiberglass for longevity, choose a steel/metal door for protection and a budget-friendly option or choose a wood door for style and aesthetics.

Fiberglass Doors

Exterior fiberglass doors are made from two molded sides with a polyurethane foam core.  This makes it a great choice to insulate against extreme temperatures.  This also makes it durable and energy efficient. So what are the pros and cons of choosing a fiberglass door?

     Pros

• Low maintenance – It is resistant to chipping and cracking and doesn’t have to be repainted or stained as often as wood.
• Energy efficient – Because it has a foam core it is naturally energy efficient.  It also stands up to extreme weather.
• Cost – While fiberglass costs more than steel, but less than wood  – it requires little maintenance and its energy savings make it budget friendly.
• Customization – Since fiberglass is a manufactured composite material it comes in a wide variety of styles and designs.
• Durability – Fiberglass will outlast both steel and wood without chipping, denting or cracking.

     Cons

• Appearance – Fiberglass lacks the appeal and beauty of natural wood.  Fiberglass doors can mimic the look of wood, but they are still fiberglass.

Steel Doors

If you need a durable, functional, strong product that offers protection from elements as well as possible intruders then steel is a popular option.

    Pros

• Cost – This is the option with the lowest cost. They are much less expensive to manufacture, but still offer a variety of styles to choose from.
• Low maintenance – Unlike wood, steel won’t rot or warp and therefore requires much less upkeep.

      Cons

• Appearance –  Steel almost always comes in flat, painted colors.  It cannot be made to look like wood.  It is not high-end, but is strong!
• Durability – While steel doors can be durable, they dent easily and will rust over time.  
• Energy efficient – Steel is not particularly energy efficient.  You can choose one with an insulated core, but it will not be as efficient as fiberglass.

Wood Doors

Nothing is more elegant than a finely designed wood door.  It provides a classic look for any home and comes in a wide variety of designs for every taste.  If you are looking for a custom look that adds character to your entryway, wood is the most versatile.

      Pros

• Appearance – If you are looking for high-end architectural appeal for your homes entrance nothing compares with the look of natural wood.
• Energy efficient – Solid wood has a natural r-factor that provides protection from temperature.  However, it is not as efficient as fiberglass.
• Repairs – Wood can be sanded, puttied and re-stained or painted with ease.  It also hides imperfections better than steel or fiberglass.

      Cons

• Maintenance – Wood requires regular maintenance to retain its beauty and appeal.  This also protects it from weathering and looking faded.
• Warping/rotting – Wood tends to expand and contract with the weather and over time it may fall victim to warping or rotting even with regular care.
• Cost – You will pay more for a wood door, especially if you choose customized options like glass inserts or intricate designs.

Final Thoughts

If you are considering an exterior update to your home – a new exterior door is a great place to start.  Once you have made this architectural choice you don’t want to neglect the rest of your home.  Whether you want to refresh the appearance of your exterior by simply repainting with the same color scheme or if you want a completely new look – let our professional help!  ColaTown Painting is dedicated to quality and dependability and we won’t leave until you are completely satisfied.  Call Britt now for your free, no-obligation estimate 803-603-6486.