There are many choices when it comes to exterior doors for your home. The three most popular door types are wood, fiberglass and steel. Factors such as where you live, the exact style or design you want and your budget will all affect your decision. If you are thinking about replacing your exterior front entry door then you should think about all the great benefits to a new front door such as adding curb appeal and value to your home. A new door will also give the exterior of your home a quick update for a reasonably low price.

Wood Doors

Wood doors have been around the longest of all doors and provide the most decorative and personalized options. These traditional doors have other beneficial characteristics such the ability to be painted or stained, a project you could probably handle on your own. Wood doors are made better and stronger today then they used to be, but have also carried a higher price tag. While wood doors do provide a sense of security (being that they are thick and heavy) they are not as secure as fiberglass or steel doors in that they have the potential to be kicked in. You can also choose from a variety of finishes for a wooden door and easily customize decorative glass for the door. One of the challenges inherent to wood doors is their tendency to expand and contract with changes in temperature. If you live in a climate which varies from one season to the next then a wood door may not be best for your home. If you want a warm and traditional feel to your home and top security isn’t a priority for you, then wood doors are an excellent option.

Fiberglass Doors

If you are looking for a strong, very secure and very energy efficient door then a fiberglass door is a great option for you. Fiberglass doors look and feel like wood but won’t crack, warp, scratch, peel, swell or expand like wood; they are three times stronger than wood doors, and in some cases can be easily painted or stained. These doors have a wood grain texture molded into them which gives the appearance of a real wood door when painted or stained. Fiberglass doors resemble wood doors so closely that it is hard to differentiate between which one is real wood and which one is fiberglass. These doors provide added security protection and greater insulating quality- while keeping to a traditional theme with less maintenance than wood doors.

Steel Doors

Steel doors are the most energy efficient of the doors, which may come as a surprise. Today’s technology provides thermal breaks between the steel and many come insulated to ensure the maximum energy efficiency.  Steel doors are the best option for those who live in areas that are subject to harsh weather conditions due to their strength. Another great benefit of steel doors is that they don’t chip, crack, or warp. Another perk is that many steel doors come with a fireproof option. Keep in mind that steel doors can get dents, but the thicker ones (heavier guage steel) hold up much better.  Being that steel doors are so strong and secure and the most cost efficient, they will probably continue to be one of the most popular door choices.

Whatever door you choose for your home, make sure that you weigh out the advantages and disadvantages of each door type to find the one that suits you best. And even more important, choose the right contractor for the job.  After all, you won’t be happy with even the best door on the market if it is installed improperly.

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