Entry Doors: Fiberglass, Wood, Steel – What is Your Best Choice?

There are many ways to customize a home, and the front door is a great place to start. Making the right choice is easier said than done, however, whether you’re selecting a door for your own home or purchasing one for a customer’s project. Which materials are right for the job? What kind of windows should be included? To help you make the best choice possible, Home Surplus takes a closer look at entry door materials and more.

Wood

Wood has long been a top choice for entry doors, and with good reason. It offers a warm, natural beauty that complements traditional and modern homes alike. At the same time, wood provides plenty of strength to keep your home’s entry secure year after year. Despite these benefits, wood doors are often more expensive than fiberglass and steel options and may require some upkeep, like staining and painting, to maintain their good looks. Due to the hot summers and cold winters faced by New Jersey homes, wood can also rot, swell, and splinter when exposed to moisture and frequent temperature changes, diminishing strength, attractiveness, and air sealing.

Fiberglass

The popularity of fiberglass doors is on the rise due to the material’s versatility and durability. Fiberglass doors can be customized in numerous ways, with a variety of colors, shapes, and window configurations to choose from. If you love the look of wood but need greater defense against damage, fiberglass doors are available in wood grain finishes and stains that mimic the look of natural wood with a lower cost. Fiberglass also offers increased resistance to nicks and scratches and a design that won’t splinter or rot after exposure to the elements. Additionally, most fiberglass doors come with an insulated core that helps maintain the temperature of your home and lowers your energy bill.

Steel

If you want heavy-duty protection for your house, a steel door might be the right choice. Steel is considered the most effective deterrent for intruders and is extremely durable and affordable. Like fiberglass, most steel doors have insulated foam cores that will make your home more energy-efficient. Despite its strength, however, steel can dent or scratch over time, and repairs may be difficult. Rust can also be a factor if the door’s finish is damaged and experiences frequent exposure to moisture.

Glass Elements

Incorporating in-door and transom windows or sidelights are a great way to enhance the look of your home’s entrance. You’ll also enjoy added natural light, which is welcome in otherwise dim hallways and foyers. Thanks to decorative designs made with caming, the thin metal lines that keep glass panes and bevels in place, it’s easy to create diverse looks, from minimalist styles to intricate works of art.

If you’re concerned about home security, choosing a door with smaller, higher glass panes may give you added peace of mind while still enjoying the benefits of windows. However, many doors are available with rugged safety glass that guards against breakage to keep intruders away.

Learn More about Entry Door Materials

Purchasing entry doors is a big decision, and there’s a lot to think about as you make your choice. For more information about entry door materials, style options, and other considerations, contact Home Surplus today or visit one of our locations in Keyport, Bellmawr, or North Bergen, New Jersey. Our friendly team is standing by to answer your questions and help contractors and homeowners access the area’s best assortment of doors, flooring, cabinets, countertops, and more.