Entry doors are a good way to make your home look beautiful and unique. They also provide security and protection from unforeseen intruders. However, installing a new door can be difficult and time consuming. This is why you need to hire professionals to do the job for you.
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Fiberglass
Fiberglass is a type of composite material – or glass-fiber reinforced plastic (FRP). Its microscopic fibers are made from thin sheets of glass that are flattened and glued together, often in a thermoset polymer matrix such as epoxy, vinyl ester, polyester or phenolic. It’s also used in insulation, curtain walls, roofing materials and other construction elements.
For entry doors, fiberglass is strong and durable, resisting dents, scratches and other damage. It isn’t as stiff as carbon-fiber-reinforced composites, but it’s cheaper and lighter. Fiberglass is available in a wide range of finishes that mimic wood grain, and it’s easy to add details such as transoms, sidelights, leaded or patterned glass.
It’s energy efficient, too. Because it has a layer of insulating foam, a fiberglass exterior door is about R-6 in its basic form, compared to R-2 for a solid wood door. It can be further enhanced with windows to reach R-7 or more.
Steel
Steel doors are often used between houses and garages, but they can also be installed where security and fire protection are a priority. Unlike wood and fiberglass, steel doors have a strong outer skin that is difficult to damage from an attack by intruders. They do not rust and will not rot, either. Many steel doors are fire-rated, and the manufacturer should mark the door with its specific fire rating information. While they can withstand impact, steel doors are more susceptible to metal-on-metal scratches than fiberglass and wood doors. These scratches can be sanded off and repainted. We offer the Milano line of steel doors, which are more stylish and elegant than standard iron doors.
Wood
Wood front doors are classic, durable and offer a rich, warm look to the home. They come in a variety of styles, colors and finishes, and can be easily customized with sidelites, transoms and more. These doors are also available in fire rated options for homes and multi-family projects. Wood doors are easy to maintain, with stunning factory-prefinished stains and paints that resist moisture and deterioration. They’re also available with aluminum cladding to protect against the elements and prevent mold, mildew and rust.
A key benefit of wooden doors is that they cut down substantially on traveling sound, making them a good option for busy families. They also provide a sense of privacy and security, as they are much harder to break into than fiberglass or steel. They are also available with obscure glass and grilles, providing an array of design options to suit any style.
Like any exterior door, wood front doors need to be regularly inspected, sanded and refinished to protect against rot, water damage and insect infestation. This can be time-consuming and costly, particularly if your home is located in an area with harsh weather conditions. Also, wood can swell and crack when exposed to excess moisture for extended periods of time. This can compromise the structural integrity of your doors and lead to water leaks in the home.