What are the disadvantages of fiberglass doors?
The Cons
- This material is pricey. Compared to a wood or steel door, a fiberglass door can come with an unfavorable price tag.
- Sizing may be a problem. Although it is more versatile than other doors, a fiberglass door is near impossible to trim down to fit a smaller than standard size frame.
- This door is not a DIY door.
Which is better wood or fiberglass doors?
Although wooden doors are durable, they’re susceptible to damage from prolonged exposure to sun, rain, snow, humidity, and other elements. Fiberglass resists the effects of harsh weather and lasts longer, without the rotting, splitting, peeling, or delaminating that occurs in wood.
How long do fiberglass doors last?
Fiberglass Exterior Doors In a reasonably protected location, a fiberglass exterior door will never need painting or staining and can last 15 to 20 years. Although it feels lighter than wood or steel, it is extremely durable and features an extremely durable coating that is difficult to breach.
Do you have to paint fiberglass doors?
Fiberglass doors and sidelights can be smooth or textured with a wood-grain finish. This material usually does not need to be primed, but painting is required. Premium steel doors are factory-primed and should be painted but not stained.
Are fiberglass doors more expensive than wood doors?
The price range for a quality, pre-finished installed fiberglass door can range between $1,200 and $2,500. So they’re less expensive than wood doors, but a bit more expensive compared with most steel doors.
Do fiberglass doors fade in the sun?
Fiberglass doors have a much higher resistance to weathering than wood and steel, but exposure to sunlight can fade them, as you have discovered. Depending on the fading, you may be able to patch the stain. Before you paint or stain the surface, clean your door properly.
How do you maintain a fiberglass exterior door?
Do:
- Use a hard topcoat. Fiberglass doors require a hard, polyurethane or acrylic topcoat finish.
- Protect the lock bore during installation.
- Take extra care to protect outswing doors.
- Equip home owners.
- Keep open lines of communication.
- Bend to impractical trends.
- Power wash doors.
Do you have to sand a fiberglass door before painting?
Painting a fiberglass entry door is much like painting a wood door, without a need for sanding before paint is applied. Rinse the door by wiping it down with a damp sponge, then allow the door to dry completely.