Fiberglass entry doors have gained popularity among homeowners for several reasons, including their durability, energy efficiency, and versatility. It is a strong and sturdy material that can withstand extreme weather conditions, making it an ideal choice for exterior doors. Fiberglass doors are also energy-efficient, as they provide excellent insulation and can help homeowners save on energy bills. Furthermore, these entry doors are versatile and come in a range of styles and designs, making it easy for homeowners to find a door that matches their home’s aesthetic.
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However, with so many options available in the market, selecting the right fiberglass entry door can be a challenging task. Homeowners need to consider several factors when choosing a door that meets their needs. These factors include durability, energy efficiency, style, price, reviews, installation, location, and local suppliers. Durability is a crucial factor to consider when selecting a fiberglass entry door. Homeowners need to ensure that the door has a high-quality construction with reinforced cores and impact-resistant fiberglass skins. A durable door can withstand wear and tear and provide long-lasting performance.
Here are the 8 ways to choose the right fiberglass entry door:
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Durability:
Fiberglass is a composite material made up of glass fibers and resin. This combination creates a strong and sturdy material that is resistant to wear and tear. One of the most significant benefits of these entry doors is their durability. Unlike other materials, such as wood, which can rot or warp over time, fiberglass doors can withstand extreme weather conditions, such as high winds, heavy rain, and extreme temperatures. However, not all fiberglass entry doors are created equal. Homeowners need to ensure that they choose a door with a high-quality construction that can withstand wear and tear. One important feature to look for is reinforced cores. Reinforced cores are made up of materials such as wood, foam, or steel, and they add additional strength to the door. A door with a reinforced core is less likely to warp or bend over time.
Another important feature to look for is impact-resistant fiberglass skins. These skins add a layer of protection to the door and can prevent damage and dents that can occur over time. Impact-resistant skins are also beneficial for homeowners who live in areas with high foot traffic or have children or pets that may scratch or bump the door. When choosing a fiberglass entry door, it’s important to look for a door that is designed to withstand the specific weather conditions in your area. For example, if you live in an area with high winds, look for a wind-resistant door. Similarly, if you live in an area with extreme temperatures, look for a door that is designed to provide optimal insulation and can help to regulate the temperature inside your home.
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Energy Efficiency:
These entry doors have excellent insulating properties that make them an ideal choice for homeowners who are looking to save on energy bills. Designers make fiberglass doors to provide a tight seal that regulates the temperature inside your home by preventing air from escaping or entering. This feature reduces the workload on your heating or cooling system. When choosing a fiberglass entry door, consider its insulation value, which experts measure by its R-value. The R-value is a measure of the door’s thermal resistance, or how well it can resist the transfer of heat through the door. The higher the R-value, the better the insulation.
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When selecting a fiberglass door, look for doors with a high R-value to ensure that they provide sufficient insulation. Doors with a high R-value can help to reduce your energy bills and keep your home comfortable year-round. The R-value of a door can vary depending on several factors, including the thickness of the door, the type of insulation used, and the overall design of the door.
Apart from selecting a door with a high R-value, homeowners can enhance the energy efficiency of their fiberglass entry door by ensuring its correct installation and sealing. A professional installer can guarantee a tight fit and proper sealing to avoid air leaks.
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Style and Design:
Modern fiberglass doors offer a wide range of styles and designs that complement your home’s aesthetic. They mimic the look and feel of other materials like wood or steel, while being durable and energy-efficient. Choose a style that fits your preference and home’s look, such as panel doors with traditional or contemporary design, glass doors with decorative inserts for elegance, or smooth doors for modern and minimalist homes.
In addition to choosing the style of the door, consider the colour and finish of the door as well. Fiberglass doors can be painted or stained, giving you the flexibility to match the door to your home’s exterior. The colour and finish of the door can have a significant impact on the overall look and feel of your home’s entryway. When selecting a colour for your fiberglass door, consider the colour of your home’s exterior and the surrounding landscape. Choose a colour that complements the overall aesthetic of your home and adds to its curb appeal. Popular colours for fiberglass doors include white, black, and various shades of brown.
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Price:
When selecting a fiberglass entry door, it’s important to consider your budget. Fiberglass doors come in a range of prices, from affordable to high-end. The cost of the door can depend on several factors, including the size, style, design, and additional features. It’s important to keep in mind that while lower-priced fiberglass doors may be more budget-friendly, they may not have the same level of durability, insulation, or overall quality as higher-priced doors. Higher-priced doors may come with additional features such as reinforced cores, better insulation, or unique designs that can increase their longevity and performance over time.
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However, it’s also important to remember that a higher price tag does not always equate to better quality. It’s essential to do your research on fiberglass entry door prices, features, and reviews to determine which fiberglass entry door is the best fit for your needs and budget. Another factor to consider when selecting a fiberglass entry door is the cost of installation. It’s recommended that a professional installer installs these entry doors to ensure that they are installed correctly and function properly. The cost of installation can vary depending on the location, size of the door, and complexity of the installation.
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Reviews:
When it comes to making any purchasing decision, it’s always wise to do your research and read reviews from other customers who have bought and used the product. This is also true when selecting a fiberglass entry door. Reading reviews from other homeowners who have installed similar doors can provide valuable insights into the quality, durability, and overall performance of the door. Online fiberglass entry door reviews are readily available on various websites, including the manufacturer’s website, home improvement stores, and independent review websites.
When reading reviews, look for comments about the door’s energy efficiency, durability, and ease of installation. These are essential factors to consider when selecting a fiberglass entry door. Positive reviews that mention the door’s energy efficiency indicate that the door can help reduce energy bills by preventing heat or cool air from escaping the home. Comments about the door’s durability indicate that the door can withstand extreme weather conditions and general wear and tear. Positive feedback about the ease of installation is also essential, as it means that the installation process is straightforward, and homeowners can avoid unnecessary expenses on professional installation.
It’s also essential to read negative reviews to get a better understanding of potential issues or concerns that other homeowners may have experienced. Negative reviews may highlight any problems with the door’s quality, installation, or performance. Pay attention to any recurring issues or problems mentioned in the reviews to determine whether they are deal-breakers for you.
Also Read: Fiberglass Entry Doors – Features & How They Are Made
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Installation:
Though installing a fiberglass entry door may seem simple, experts recommend hiring a professional for proper installation. A professional installer with expertise and experience can improve the door’s performance and lifespan by installing it correctly. Proper alignment is one of the key benefits of hiring a professional installer. An improperly aligned door can lead to air leaks, which can reduce the door’s energy efficiency and lead to higher energy bills. A professional installer can make sure that the door is installed to the manufacturer’s specifications and is aligned correctly.
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Another benefit of hiring a professional installer is that they can weatherstrip and seal the door properly. Weatherstripping and sealing are essential to prevent air leaks and improve the door’s energy efficiency. A professional installer can use high-quality weatherstripping and sealants to ensure that the door is sealed correctly. While some homeowners may opt to install their fiberglass entry door themselves to save on installation costs, it’s important to consider the long-term benefits of professional installation. Proper installation can improve the door’s performance and energy efficiency, leading to long-term savings on energy bills. Additionally, professional installation can ensure that the door’s installation is safe and secure, providing peace of mind for homeowners.
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Location:
When selecting a fiberglass entry door, it’s essential to consider the location of your home. If you live in an area with extreme weather conditions, it’s crucial to look for doors which are design to withstand the elements. For example, if you live in an area with heavy rainfall or strong winds, look for doors with reinforced cores and impact-resistant fiberglass skins. Manufacturers make reinforced cores from materials such as steel or polyurethane to add strength and durability to the door. They design impact-resistant fiberglass skins to withstand strong impacts and prevent damage to the door.
If you live in an area with freezing temperatures, look for doors with good insulation properties. These entry doors with high insulation values (R-values) can help to prevent heat loss and improve energy efficiency in colder climates. Additionally, doors with weatherstripping and proper sealing can prevent drafts and air leaks, which can lead to higher energy bills and reduced comfort in your home. Another factor to consider is the exposure of your door to sunlight. If your door receives a lot of direct sunlight, consider selecting a door with a UV-resistant finish. UV-resistant finishes can prevent fading and discoloration over time, helping to keep your door looking new for longer.
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Local Suppliers:
Buying a fiberglass entry door from a local supplier has many benefits. They offer personalized service, expert advice, and quick delivery. They can guide you in selecting the perfect door for your home, taking into account your unique needs, budget, and style preferences. Local suppliers like Ecotech Windows and Doors in Ontario provide free in-home estimates and installation services to ensure your door installation process is correct, maximizing its energy efficiency and protection against the elements.
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Furthermore, local suppliers may offer warranty protection for their doors, which can provide you with peace of mind knowing that your product is safe against any defects or issues that may arise with the door. For homeowners in Toronto or Mississauga, Toronto Fiberglass Doors is a great local supplier to consider when selecting a fiberglass entry door. They provide a wide range of high-quality fiberglass doors at competitive prices and offer expert installation services to ensure correct installation. Additionally, they offer warranty protection on their doors, which assures that your investment is under protection and gives you peace of mind.
Conclusion –
In conclusion, selecting the right fiberglass entry door requires careful consideration of several factors, including durability, energy efficiency, style, price, reviews, installation, location, and local suppliers. By keeping these factors in mind, you can choose a fiberglass entry door that meets your needs and enhances the curb appeal and value of your home. At Ecotech Windows and Doors we provide you the free in-home fiberglass entry door installation estimate. Call us today!
