Steel vs. Fiberglass Exterior Doors: Which Is Better for Your Home?
It's a tough choice, but your home's security will thank you either way
Highlights
Steel doors can dent and scratch and high-impact can damage fiberglass doors.
Both types of doors offer energy efficiency and are more effective than wood.
Steel doors cost $150 to $1,400 while fiberglass doors cost $150 to $3,000.
Choosing between steel and fiberglass doors can be pivotal for your home’s exterior. Each material offers unique benefits and considerations, influencing security and aesthetics. Our comparison of steel vs. fiberglass exterior doors will help you make an informed choice tailored to your needs.
Steel vs. Fiberglass Exterior Doors: Key Differences
Steel doors are strong and secure, offering reliable protection against weather and intruders. However, they can be prone to dents, scratches, and rust. Fiberglass doors resist dents and rust but can easily sustain damage from a high-impact blow. Both types of doors are ideal for different climates and are energy efficient. When in doubt about what is best for you, consult with a local door installation professional.
What Is a Steel Door?
An exterior steel door can be solid or hollow. On the inside, hollow steel doors have insulation. Regardless of the front door you choose, steel doors are sturdier and require less maintenance than wood doors.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Strength and security | Dents |
| Low maintenance | Scratches |
| Energy efficient | Potential for rust |
| Fire resistant | Noise |
| Budget friendly | Weight |
Best for:
Homes requiring high security
Locations with harsh weather conditions
Door frames that can handle the weight
Steel Door Pros
Steel doors provide robust protection against forced entry, vandalism, and extreme weather conditions, offering homeowners comfort knowing their adobes are protected. This durability also means that steel doors have a longer life span than other door materials, like wood, which tends to rot, and even fiberglass, reducing the need for frequent replacements and associated costs.
Moreover, steel doors are energy-efficient and fire-resistant, contributing to enhanced safety measures and potential utility bill savings. Unlike their industrial reputation, steel doors are highly versatile and customizable to suit various aesthetic preferences and functional requirements. Lastly, steel doors cost less than fiberglass options at $150 to $1,400, making them economical for those seeking a high-quality door.
Steel Door Cons
Unfortunately, steel doors are susceptible to dents, scratches, and rust, which is a problem in environments with high humidity or coastal areas where corrosion is common.
While steel insulates noise, some types may transmit more noise than other materials, like fiberglass, and the heavy nature of steel doors can cause loud slamming. Additionally, the weight of steel doors can pose challenges during installation, requiring sturdy support structures and potentially increasing labor costs.
What Is a Fiberglass Door?
These doors consist of a core material, like foam insulation, surrounded by layers of fiberglass. They are known for their durability, resistance to warping and rotting, and ability to withstand harsh weather conditions. They are also highly customizable, offering various styles, finishes, and decorative options.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Durable | Expensive |
| Low maintenance | Weight |
| Energy efficient | Hard to repair |
| Customizable | Vulnerable to impact |
Best for:
Regions with extreme weather conditions
Homeowners who prioritize low-maintenance and energy-efficient features
Fiberglass Door Pros
Unlike traditional wood doors, fiberglass doors are impervious to warping, cracking, and rotting, making them particularly well-suited for regions with extreme weather conditions or high humidity. This durability ensures that fiberglass doors maintain their structural integrity and aesthetic appeal over time, reducing the need for frequent maintenance and replacement.
Whether you seek a sleek and modern entryway or a more traditional look, fiberglass doors can complement any architectural style and even mimic the look of wood. Furthermore, fiberglass doors often feature insulation options, improving energy efficiency and lowering homeowners' heating and cooling costs.
Fiberglass Door Cons
Fiberglass exterior doors cost more upfront than steel doors at $150 to $3,000. Additionally, as with steel, the weight of fiberglass doors makes installation difficult, requiring more robust hinges and support structures to accommodate their heft.
While fiberglass is known for its durability, it can still be vulnerable to impacts from heavy objects or accidents. Unfortunately, repairing fiberglass doors can be challenging and requires extensive measures, like replacing the entire door panel.
Steel vs. Fiberglass Exterior Doors: Which Is Best?
While both doors have pros and cons, let's see which wins in the following categories.
Appearance: Tie
Fiberglass doors come in a broader range of styles, but you can find plenty of decorative steel doors or industrial-looking options.
Security: Steel Doors
Steel doors are considered superior in security compared to fiberglass doors because of their rigid construction, which offers added strength. Steel's robust nature provides formidable resistance against forced entry attempts, making it a highly effective deterrent against intruders.
Durability: Steel Doors
Steel doors are more resistant to heavy impacts than fiberglass. However, they are susceptible to dents and scratches, which may affect their appearance. Despite these flaws, steel doors' structural integrity and security are less likely to be compromised than fiberglass doors.
Price: Steel Doors
Steel doors are often a more affordable option than their fiberglass counterparts while also providing excellent value. Although both materials offer benefits, steel doors have a lower price tag, making them a popular choice for homeowners looking for quality entry doors without overspending.
Length of Life: Steel Doors
Advancements in protective coatings and manufacturing techniques have further enhanced the life span of steel doors. While both options can last for decades, with proper maintenance and care, steel doors can last a century, while fiberglass glass doors last up to 30 years.
Coastal Areas: Fiberglass Doors
Unlike some steel doors, fiberglass doors are not susceptible to rust or degradation due to saltwater, ensuring they maintain their structural integrity and appearance over time.
Fire Resistance: Steel Doors
Steel doors offer impressive fire ratings, protecting for up to 3 hours in the event of a fire. This makes them an excellent choice for areas where fire resistance is a top priority. Fiberglass doors are available with a fire rating of up to 20 minutes.