If you’re looking for new exterior doors, you are no doubt aware that there are a whole number of different materials you can choose from including wood, steel and fiberglass. With most materials there are both pros and cons to take into account before making a decision, but fiberglass is one material that has virtually no disadvantages. Fiberglass doors aren’t exactly a new concept, having first shot to prominence nearly three decades ago, but today remain the best choice for exterior entryways.
Direct Pro are Toronto based windows and doors specialists and we custom produce these products to our customers’ exact specifications. When ordering your new exterior door the material is something that needs to be carefully considered, as the door will need to be able to endure the demands of daily use and exposure to Toronto weather conditions. Why do we believe that fiberglass doors are the best choice? Keep reading to find out.
The Benefits of Fiberglass Doors
- The range of Design Options – The vast majority of people that choose wood doors, do so because of their aesthetic appeal. But what if we told you that fiberglass doors can be produced to mimic the appearance of wood? And we are not talking about a poor quality imitation here, it’s often difficult to tell the difference between real wood and fiberglass doors. In addition to wood style finishes, fiberglass doors are available in a range of other styles and colours, and it’s almost guaranteed that you will find one that will fit in with your home’s existing architecture.
- Low Maintenance – After your door is installed, you’ll hardly have to do anything to keep it looking like new. Fiberglass doors are resistant to moisture and scratches, with the only thing that can really affect its appearance being dust and dirt, and that can be easily solved with a bucket of water and a cloth.
- Secure Option – Entry points to your home (doors and windows) have to be secure, otherwise burglars may be able to access your property. Fibreglass doors have been proven in numerous tests to be very resistant to forced entry and other break-in techniques.
- Resistant to Toronto Weather Conditions – Exterior doors have to be able to put up with a range of different weather conditions in Toronto, as we tend to experience the full set each year; hot temperatures, cold temperatures, direct sunlight, pouring rain, gale force winds and snow. Fiberglass doors are virtually unaffected by these weather conditions, unlike other options.
- High Insulation Value – Fiberglass doors possess a polyurethane foam core that is very efficient at insulating your property, meaning warm air is kept inside during the winter and cool air during the summer months. Not only does this make for a more comfortable home environment, but it also helps to lower your energy bills too.
How Do Wood Doors Measure Up to Fibreglass Doors?
Wood was the first material to be used for all kinds of doors, and although it is still widely used for interior doors, it has lost ground to fiberglass doors in the exterior door market. The major attraction of wood doors is the appearance they have, but with modern manufacturing techniques allowing this same appearance to be achieved with other materials, the number of solid wood doors that are produced and installed at Toronto residences has dropped significantly. You also have to consider that:
- Wood is Vulnerable to the Weather – Unlike fiberglass, wood can, and eventually will probably show signs of weather damage. It can warp, twist, crack and rot; all of which are likely to affect the way in which the door functions.
- Wood is High Maintenance – Should you elect to buy a wood door, you’ll have to carry out more maintenance than you would have to for any other material. The condition of wood doors needs to be carefully monitored and periodic sanding and re-staining is an absolute must.
- Wood is Less Energy Efficient – Rising energy costs mean it’s vital to ensure your home is energy efficient, otherwise you could end up paying out hundreds of additional dollars each year to heat and cool your home. Fiberglass doors typically have an insulation rating 5x higher than wood.
And What About Steel?
The main advantage of steel doors is the level of security they provide. They beat all other options in this respect, fiberglass doors included. They also require lower maintenance than wood (but more than fiberglass), and are not vulnerable to cracking or bowing like wood is. However, before selecting a steel door, remember:
- Steel is Prone to Rust – This is not an issue with either of the other materials, and rust can seriously affect the appearance of the door.
- Steel Needs to Be Repainted – This is because over time the paint on a steel door will tend to peel and look untidy. Your only option will be to re-paint it. The trouble is, simply painting over the top of the original coat can result in an uneven surface, and removing the original coat can be difficult.
- Steel Conducts Heat – This can result in energy loss through conduction, meaning your heating and cooling systems need to work harder and you will subsequently have to pay more for the energy they use.
Direct Pro has been producing exterior doors for years and knows what works best.
If you would like to talk to a member of Direct Pro in Toronto about your requirements don’t hesitate to contact us.
