TL;DR – Is a Fiberglass or Steel Entry Door Right for Your Home?
- Fiberglass doors offer low maintenance, strong energy efficiency, and customizable designs.
- Steel doors provide superior security, high durability, and excellent long-term value.
- Fiberglass is lightweight and versatile but may crack under impact or severe weather.
- Steel is strong and weather-resistant but can dent or become hot in direct sun.
- Your climate, durability needs, and aesthetic preferences will determine the best choice.
When upgrading your entryway door, you likely imagine elements such as decorative glass, the perfect color, and strong hardware. But one of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing the right entry door material. Today’s two most popular options—fiberglass and steel—each offer unique advantages.
Both materials can be excellent choices for residential use, but understanding their differences can help you select the option that delivers the best performance, cost savings, and long-term durability for your home. Below, we break down the benefits and limitations of fiberglass and steel doors to help you make an informed decision.
Fiberglass
Although the word “fiberglass” may bring insulation or sporting equipment to mind, fiberglass composite has become one of the most widely used and effective materials for exterior doors. Residential fiberglass doors feature a smooth surface and an insulated core for enhanced performance.
Fiberglass doors are a great choice for homeowners who:
- Want a low-maintenance door that won’t need refinishing and resists corrosion
- Prioritize energy efficiency and appreciate the high ENERGY STAR ratings fiberglass models often earn
- Prefer a customizable look—fiberglass can be painted or textured in many finishes
- Desire the appearance of wood without worrying about swelling, warping, or moisture damage
While fiberglass and steel doors are typically priced similarly, fiberglass may offer better long-term savings thanks to its low maintenance needs.
However, fiberglass may be less suitable if you:
- Have young children or frequent activity near the door, as fiberglass can crack on impact
- Live in an area prone to hurricanes, hail, or tornadoes, where flying debris can damage the surface
Its lightweight construction can make installation more affordable, but some homeowners find fiberglass lacks the heavy, traditional feel of wood or steel.
Steel
While often associated with commercial buildings, steel doors are also a smart investment for many homeowners. Steel doors use galvanized metal—a protective zinc coating that helps prevent rust and increases longevity.
A steel door may be the best choice if you:
- Want top-level security and extra protection from forced entry
- Plan to increase your home’s resale value—steel doors historically offer one of the highest returns on investment (91% vs. fiberglass’s 82% in a 2016 Cost vs. Value report)
- Live in an area with frequent severe weather such as strong winds, snowstorms, or ice
- Want a door that can last decades with proper care
Steel is widely used in construction because of its durability and reliability. A well-maintained steel door can stay beautiful and strong for years.
However, steel may not be ideal if:
- Your door frequently gets knocked or scraped—steel can dent or scratch and may require refinishing
- You live in an extremely hot climate, as steel doors can become very warm and potentially transfer heat indoors (especially if you choose a lower-quality option)
Steel doors come in a variety of finishes, including faux wood grain, but some homeowners feel fiberglass offers more realistic textures and broader design flexibility.
Use the comparison above to determine which material best fits your priorities. If you’re still unsure, consider consulting a windows and doors specialist who can provide tailored advice based on your climate, security needs, and architectural style.
To explore high-quality fiberglass and steel entry doors designed to complement any home, browse the collections available at Shank Door.
Trackback from your site.