Steel Doors vs. Fiber Doors: Which Is Better?

A sturdy and fashionable front door makes a home stand out and attracts attention. It provides peace of mind through security and it is one of those minor features that homebuyers seek. Therefore, it is essential to choose from a steel door vs. a fiber door for your home.

It is time to consider replacement doors if your client’s home exterior doors appear drab, lack convenient features, are damaged, or do not match the current style. Entry doors are a crucial element in enhancing the curb appeal of a home.

When you have questions about exterior doors or any other element of a home’s exterior, a reliable and trusted steel door manufacturer can assist you in acquiring entry doors you would genuinely love.

A frequent inquiry from homeowners is whether a fiberglass or steel door is preferable. Depending on the homeowner’s preferences and needs, both of these exterior doors can be beneficial.

Here is the difference between steel doors and fiberglass doors to provide you with a starting point as you make your decision.

Appearance

Steel Doors

Modern steel entry doors are available in a variety of attractive designs, giving a variety of options to choose from. With the addition of decorative panels and other details, high-end steel doors can mimic the appearance of wood.

Your client may also opt for a sleek, contemporary style—they can be painted to match the aesthetic of the entryway.

Fiberglass Doors

Consider a fiberglass entry door if your client desires a stylish door that resembles wood but is easier to maintain. Many wood grains, including cherry, oak, and mahogany, can be imitated by fiberglass to create a beautiful appearance.

Typically, fiberglass is pre-painted or stained to achieve a customized appearance.

Durability

Steel Doors

Steel is a strong and durable door material overall. It is sturdy and will perform well for many years. However, in the absence of proper maintenance, the surface of steel doors can become scratched, dented, or rusted.

Fiberglass Doors

Fiberglass doors are typically a durable option. In contrast to wood, fiberglass is not affected by weather, moisture, or humidity. It is also rust-resistant. However, if struck with sufficient force, fiberglass can be dented or cracked.

Ease of Maintenance

Steel Doors

A steel door has a smooth surface that is simple to wipe clean of dust and grime. Do not rinse with a hose, as the steel surface is susceptible to rust. Scratched doors should be repainted in order to prevent rusting.

Fiberglass Doors

Cleaning fiberglass exterior doors is simple. Simply wipe the surface with a damp, soft cloth as necessary to remove dirt and dust. Rinse with a soft hose spray or a pressure washer on the lowest setting, this is because higher settings may dent the fiberglass.

Energy Efficiency

Steel Doors

Steel is more energy-efficient than wood. It also prevents air from escaping and driving up the utility costs. However, it lacks the durability of fiberglass. In addition, steel can become hot when exposed to sunlight and high temperatures, making it slightly less effective than fiberglass.

Fiberglass Doors

In terms of energy efficiency, fiberglass is unrivaled. As a result of its superior durability, it outperforms both wood and steel. And it is highly effective at preventing air loss, which impacts the utility bills.

Safety

Steel Doors

When it comes to a home security option, a steel entry door is a durable exterior door. Their thick, resilient nature can withstand almost anything. No thief will be able to kick a steel door down.

Fiberglass Doors

Glass is a lightweight material that provides adequate protection. This makes it slightly more susceptible to denting and manipulation.

Cost and Return on Investment

Steel Doors

Steel doors are the most cost-efficient option. A basic steel door is very inexpensive, and it is typically the most budget-friendly door material when compared to wood and fiberglass.

In addition, steel offers homeowners a return on investment of about 90%.

Fiberglass Doors

Typically, fiberglass doors are more expensive than steel doors but less expensive than premium wood doors. However, many homeowners prefer fiberglass because it lasts longer and is easier to maintain than wood and steel.

Fiberglass offers homeowners a return on investment of approximately 75%.

Make Your Client’s Home Stand Out With the Best Exterior Door

Both fiberglass and steel doors increase curb appeal, energy efficiency, and home security when considering front door replacements. The choice between the two materials should ultimately complement your client’s home’s aesthetic and be an inviting sight for guests.

A steel door is indeed stronger and more durable in terms of long-term use—making it the ideal choice for your client’s entry door.

However, we’ve listed down some tips to help you decide between the two alternatives if you are still unsure:

  • Examine several door brands for style and cost variations
  • Consider how your climate may influence your decision
  • Visit showrooms to examine colors and textures in detail
  • Consider adding glass panels to your home to let in more natural light

When your clients are ready to invest in exterior home improvements, it is advisable to choose a steel front entry door replacement. Its simple but modern architectural detail can give a home’s entrance a unique charm and elegance that will impress guests and make the owners proud.

Our team at Euroline Steel Windows and Doors enjoys assisting California architects and builders. We’re available whenever you or your clients have questions about replacement entry doors or other exterior home improvements.

Regardless of the weather, there is never a bad time to invest in home improvements. When you’re ready to discuss the attractive, valuable doors and windows we can provide, please contact us for a consultation and quotation.

You call us at 877-590-2741 at Euroline Steel Windows and Doors today!

Author: Elyas Balta

Experienced Chief Executive Officer with a demonstrated history in innovation and scalability in the luxury building materials industry. Passionate about inspiring and empowering others to grow in character and success. Determined in bringing art and engineering together to create and manufacture an exotic product line of steel windows and doors.