Why Fiberglass Doors Are Awesome
Just a decade ago, the term “fiberglass” probably conjured up an image of a boat or a cheap bathtub. Technology in home design materials has come an unbelievably long way, including in the realm of fiberglass: where doors can be manufactured to be as tough, durable and attractive as a traditional wooden door. There are several reasons why fiberglass entry doors are awesome: here are just a few.
Resembles Real Wood – Except It’s Fiberglass
Fiberglass doors can be designed to look so much like real wood, that even an expert would have to study it up close in order to tell the difference. The texture, color variances and even simulated woodgrain are just that good.
This could be a fantastic option if you demand the traditional elegance of a wooden door to enhance your curb appeal, but your wallet says otherwise. You can get a fiberglass wood-look door in any shade pre-made, or paint one in any color you like.
Warp Resistant
Wherever you happen to live, there are sure to be changes throughout the season in humidity, rainfall and snowfall. These climate changes cause wood to shrink and expand, which ultimately result in cracking and warping.
There’s nothing worse than a warped door: one day you’re about to leave for work and you nearly get stuck in the house with a door that has swelled shut! A fiberglass door isn’t made of natural fibers like wood, so it won’t expand and twist when it gets a little wet. This means that in the long run, fiberglass doors are less likely to require repairs and replacements than wooden doors.
Fiberglass Doors Are Durable
When it comes to something that’s used as often as a door, exposed to wear and tear from both inside and outside, you need to use a material that can stand up to abuse. Fiberglass doors may not be indestructible, but they’re manufactured to resist the dents, scratches, rot and mold which are so common to some materials such as wood.
You’ll be able to use your doors normally without worrying about needing to handle them with kid gloves. Plus, fiberglass doesn’t get rusty from exposure to rain and snow – a major benefit for an exterior entry door.
Fiberglass Entry Doors Are Maintenance-Free
Wooden doors require a little more babysitting than fiberglass: they may need to be oiled or stained frequently and, after a storm or some rough usage, may require repairs. While all doors can occasionally use a little wiping down or hosing off, a fiberglass door is good to go once it’s hung. It won’t require any sanding or refinishing, and you only need to repaint it if you decide you’d like to try out a new color.
Improve Curb Appeal
Depending on how much you’re willing to spend, fiberglass doors can be a beautiful addition to even the most upscale home. These doors come in every style and pattern, and can include beautiful windows, frosted glass, raised panels, vertical panels and all different sorts of textures.
Try out a single fiberglass entry door surrounded by glass paneling, or a sophisticated set of black wood-look French doors to draw the eye. The sky is the limit – if you don’t find the perfect fiberglass door among thousands of pre-made models, you can have something custom designed for the most unique and tasteful house on the block.
Fiberglass Doors Offer Security
A fiberglass entry door can be just as secure as any other when it comes to keeping break-ins at bay. Of course, not every fiberglass door is created equally: be sure to purchase a good quality one in a secure frame, with a deadbolt lock.
Also, don’t skimp on framework and lock mechanisms. Plus, keep in mind that even the strongest door won’t keep someone out if it’s not closed and locked – always lock the door whether you’re home or not, and consider using a security system with a video camera.
Energy Efficient Fiberglass
Some doors just don’t do well with keeping your house warm in the winter and cool in the summer. When you lose your climate control through the door, you have to crank up your heating or cooling system, resulting in much larger utility bills.
You can get insulated fiberglass doors with high energy efficiency ratings, ensuring that your warm or cool air stays where you want it: inside your house. Windows and glass paneling on or around your doors can bring down the energy efficiency of the unit, but don’t let that stop you if you have your heart set on glass – just get an extra thermal insulated fiberglass door to help offset that heat loss.
Weather Protection
One of the most basic functions of a door is to protect you and your home from the elements, and fiberglass doors have been engineered to be the best at this. These are the most leak-proof of all the different types of door, which is a major benefit especially if you live in a very humid and rainy area.
The scratch-resistant qualities of fiberglass will also come in handy when your area suffers a thunderstorm with hail, or high winds. Other types of doors may mold, rot or rust after being exposed to the elements for years.
How Much Do Fiberglass Doors Cost?
Fiberglass doors come in a wide range of prices, and while you get what you pay for, it’s generally pretty safe to pick something in the middle range. Although pricing on installation and supplies varies between companies and in different areas, it’s still much less expensive than wood entry door installation.
Keep in mind that the price tag isn’t the only component you should look at when choosing a door: the quality, durability, style, security and energy efficiency are the most important qualities. Look at all of your options until you find something where the door’s attributes and your budget meet comfortably in the middle.
How to Choose a New Fiberglass Door
When shopping for a new door, it’s a great idea to look at some in person. Check out your local home improvement store, or see if any manufacturers have showrooms in your area. You should be able to get a good idea of what models are available, what upgrade options you can select, as well as the general look and feel of the door to see if it’s what you had in mind.
Fiberglass Entry Doors Are Perfect for Rockford
There are many benefits of fiberglass doors, but ultimately the choice is up to you. Now that you’re armed with some information about how a fiberglass door can improve the look, function and energy efficiency of your home, you’ll feel great about your decision to buy a fiberglass door for your home.
Now that you know why fiberglass entry doors are so awesome, where can you get one? Feldco has been serving the Midwest for over 40 years. We offer high quality, durable, beautiful fiberglass entry doors to homeowners in Rockford. Get a free quote now and see why over 350,000 homeowners have trusted us with their home improvement needs.