Replacing or installing a new entrance door in your home is more than just a cosmetic upgrade—it’s an investment in your security, comfort, and energy efficiency. Among the many materials available today, steel and fiberglass doors stand out as two of the most popular options for homeowners. But which one is right for you?
In this article, we’ll dive into the key factors to consider when installing a door and help you understand the pros and cons of steel and fiberglass doors, so you can make the best decision for your home.
1. First Things First: Why Material Matters
Before choosing a door, it’s important to understand how much the material affects performance. The material impacts:
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Durability
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Security
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Insulation
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Maintenance
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Style and appearance
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Cost
Let’s explore how steel and fiberglass stack up in these categories.
2. Steel Doors: Strong, Secure, and Affordable
Pros of Steel Doors:
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Superior Security: Steel doors are one of the strongest door types available. They resist forced entry better than wood or fiberglass and are an excellent choice for homeowners who prioritize security.
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Cost-Effective: Typically, steel doors are more affordable than fiberglass or wood, especially when you’re working within a budget but still want a reliable, solid door.
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Energy Efficiency: Steel doors are often filled with insulating foam cores, which improve their thermal performance. Look for Energy Star-rated options to ensure maximum efficiency.
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Low Maintenance: A steel door won’t warp or crack, and it requires little upkeep. Just a simple wash every now and then will keep it looking fresh.
Cons of Steel Doors:
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Denting and Scratching: While strong, steel can dent if hit hard, and scratches can expose it to rust if not treated promptly.
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Limited Design Options: Steel doors have fewer customization options compared to fiberglass. While you can find a variety of colors and some textures, they don’t offer the same warmth or wood-like look as fiberglass.
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Heat Conductivity: In very hot climates, steel can conduct heat, which might be a consideration depending on where you live.
Best Use Cases for Steel Doors:
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Front entry doors in urban or high-traffic areas
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Budget-conscious home upgrades
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Homeowners prioritizing security over aesthetics
3. Fiberglass Doors: Stylish, Durable, and Versatile
Pros of Fiberglass Doors:
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Versatile Appearance: Fiberglass doors can mimic the appearance of real wood—grain and all—without the maintenance. They’re available in a wide range of styles, colors, and finishes.
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Excellent Durability: Resistant to dents, scratches, rust, and corrosion, fiberglass stands up well to heavy use and harsh weather conditions.
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Energy Efficiency: Like steel, fiberglass doors have an insulated core that helps keep your home comfortable year-round.
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Low Maintenance: They won’t warp, crack, rot, or rust. Occasional cleaning and periodic refinishing (if stained) will keep them looking great.
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Weather Resistant: Fiberglass performs well in humid, rainy, or extremely cold conditions, making it ideal for a variety of climates.
Cons of Fiberglass Doors:
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Higher Initial Cost: Fiberglass doors are typically more expensive upfront than steel doors.
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Complex Repairs: While durable, fiberglass doors can be more complicated and costly to repair if they do get damaged.
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Not As Secure as Steel: While they’re still secure, fiberglass doesn’t match steel’s level of impact resistance when it comes to forced entry.
Best Use Cases for Fiberglass Doors:
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Homeowners looking for a high-end look without the upkeep of real wood
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Properties in areas with harsh weather
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Families wanting a long-lasting, stylish door with good energy performance
4. Installation Considerations
No matter which material you choose, proper installation is crucial to getting the most out of your new door. Here are key points to consider:
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Fit and Measurement: Steel and fiberglass doors are usually pre-hung, meaning they come with the frame and are easier to install than slab-only doors. However, precise measurement is still essential.
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Threshold and Weather Sealing: To maximize energy efficiency, your installer should ensure a tight seal with high-quality weatherstripping and proper threshold adjustment.
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Door Swing Direction: Think about how the door will open and whether it might obstruct traffic flow or furniture.
Hiring a professional door installer ensures everything is level, plumb, and airtight—preventing future drafts, leaks, and wear.
5. Energy Efficiency and Insulation
Both steel and fiberglass doors are excellent in terms of energy performance, thanks to their insulated cores.
Look for:
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Energy Star certification
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Low U-Factor (better insulation)
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Proper weatherstripping
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Double or triple-pane glass (if you choose a model with glass panels)
If lowering your heating and cooling bills is a top priority, both materials deliver—just be sure to select a high-quality door with strong energy ratings.
6. Maintenance Tips
Steel Door Maintenance:
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Clean with mild soap and water to remove dirt.
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Touch up any scratches to prevent rust.
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Lubricate hinges once a year.
Fiberglass Door Maintenance:
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Wipe clean regularly; avoid abrasive cleaners.
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Refinish every few years if stained.
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Inspect weatherstripping annually and replace if worn.
7. Which Door Should You Choose?
Still torn between steel and fiberglass? Here’s a quick summary:
| Feature | Steel Door | Fiberglass Door |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | More affordable | Higher upfront cost |
| Security | Excellent (very strong) | Good, but not as strong as steel |
| Durability | Strong but may dent/rust | Extremely durable and weather-resistant |
| Appearance | Simple, industrial | Can mimic wood, many design options |
| Maintenance | Low, but requires rust protection | Very low, resistant to damage |
| Energy Efficiency | Very good with foam core | Excellent with foam core |
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re renovating your home’s entryway or replacing an old, inefficient door, both steel and fiberglass offer excellent benefits. Steel is your go-to if you want maximum security and affordability, while fiberglass is ideal if you’re after a beautiful, durable, and low-maintenance option that mimics the warmth of wood.
At Install America, we specialize in professional door installations using only the highest quality materials. Whether you choose steel or fiberglass, our team will ensure a flawless fit, airtight seal, and long-lasting performance.
Ready to upgrade your door? Contact us today for a free consultation and discover the perfect solution for your home.