Let’s say that old wooden door on the exterior of your business, though once quite warm and distinguished-looking, has grown weathered, dull, scratched or even warped over time. Or maybe you’ve just decided you want a whole new look for your storefront. We all love a good wooden storefront door – they’re inviting and classic. But maintaining wood doors that are on the exterior of a building is a pain. They’re high-maintenance, prone to warping, and can rot if exposed to too much water for too long. Don’t get us wrong, maintaining your exterior wood doors is totally worth it, but if you’re looking for something that’s low-maintenance, wood’s not it.
Whatever the reason, if it’s time for a new entry door on the outside of your building, why not make it fiberglass? Modern fiberglass exterior doors offer many of the same benefits as wood or steel and are versatile to boot. Not convinced? Here are some reasons to take a look at fiberglass for your next exterior door.
Why Choose Exterior Fiberglass Doors?
Fiberglass Doors are Durable
One of the biggest selling points of fiberglass is its durability, making it an excellent choice for exterior doors. Fiberglass won’t warp or rot like wood, and won’t corrode, which can sometimes happen with exterior steel doors. Laminate manufacturing techniques for fiberglass doors have been improved so that modern fiberglass:
- Is resistant to heat and cold
- Doesn’t crack, well, or lose its shape
- Won’t rust, corrode, or dent
- Is low-maintenance and requires minimal upkeep
Fiberglass Doors are Surprisingly Secure
Concerned about security? Don’t be. Commercial fiberglass doors for storefronts outdo wood in their resistance to break-ins and can be designed in a way that they equal the efficiency of steel as security doors. While fiberglass isn’t as strong as steel, today’s exterior fiberglass doors are much more resilient than in the past. Fiberglass storefront doors can withstand harsh weather conditions and maintain their strength and shape over time. They’re an ideal option for businesses that are looking for a secure and long-lasting commercial entryway. To further improve security, consider:
- Multipoint locking systems that secure the door at multiple points along the frame
- Reinforced strike plates to prevent kick-ins
- Impact-resistant fiberglass models for high-risk environments
With these features, fiberglass doors provide a strong first line of defense for any commercial property.
Commercial Fiberglass Doors are Customizable
Fiberglass is one of the most versatile options for your storefront door installation, as it’s available in many designs and colors. You can repaint it anytime you need a new, updated look, and you can mimic the look of other materials with texture choices for your new exterior fiberglass doors. Home and business owners can choose:
- Woodgrain textures. If you want the look of a wood door without the maintenance, you can do that. Commercial fiberglass doors can be given a finish that mimics the grain of different types of real wood such as cherry, oak, or mahogany. This means that you can enjoy the aesthetic appeal of a wood door without having to worry about the door warping or rotting over time.
- Custom colors and stains. Fiberglass doors can be painted or stained in a variety of colors to match your storefront’s style or branding. This allows for a seamless integration of the door with the design of the building. To further enhance the appearance of a fiberglass commercial door, it can also be fitted with glass. Exterior door glass can be clear or frosted and can be designed to fit the specific aesthetic of your storefront. Glass can also allow natural light to enter the space, which can create a welcoming and inviting atmosphere.
- Decorative glass inserts and other finishes. While some people may worry that a fiberglass door will look too much like plastic and thus appear cheap, that certainly isn’t the case. Modern manufacturing techniques allow for fiberglass doors to be just as attractive as doors made of wood or metal. The finish on a fiberglass door can be made to look like a variety of materials and customized to match your exact specifications.
Fiberglass Doors are an Energy-Efficient Choice
Savings on your energy bills and comfort for your customers and employees represent additional attractions of fiberglass. For climate control, fiberglass entry door systems are more energy efficient than wood, and when installed with proper weather stripping and glazing can effectively keep your business interior warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Fiberglass door installations can also be customized to include features to enhance their efficiency. Most modern fiberglass doors:
- Have a polyurethane foam core, which acts as a highly efficient insulator
- Are designed with weatherstripping that forms a tight seal around the edges
- Have energy-efficient glass panels with double or triple glazing to prevent heat transfer
- Feature compression gaskets that create an airtight barrier when the door is closed
- Meet or exceed ENERGY STAR standards, making them a smart investment for businesses looking to save on utility bills
The bottom line? A fiberglass door with proper insulation and weatherproofing can save up to 15% on heating and cooling costs compared to traditional wood or steel doors.
How to Maintain Your Fiberglass Door
Maintaining your fiberglass exterior door is simple and helps ensure it stays functional and attractive for years to come. Regular cleaning is the first step — use a mild soap mixed with water and a soft cloth or sponge to gently wipe down the door’s surface. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the texture and finish.
It’s also important to inspect the door’s hardware regularly. Check hinges, locks, and handles for any signs of wear or looseness, and apply a light lubricant to moving parts at least once a year to keep everything operating smoothly. While fiberglass doors are known for their durability, you may want to repaint or refinish the door if you notice fading or scratches, especially if it has a painted finish. Following these simple maintenance steps will help your fiberglass door retain its performance and beauty over time.
Common Applications for Fiberglass Exterior Doors
Fiberglass exterior doors are a versatile choice for a variety of commercial and residential applications. They are frequently used as front entry doors, offering business owners an attractive and secure entrance that withstands weather and daily use. Their durability and resistance to moisture make them ideal for locations where exposure to the elements is a concern. Fiberglass doors also work well as side or garage entry doors, providing an energy-efficient barrier while complementing your building’s exterior style. Whether you’re replacing an old door or designing a new space, fiberglass exterior doors offer reliable performance and style for multiple applications.
At SACS, we specialize in the installation and replacement of exterior fiberglass doors. We can help you decide on the right design and style for your next installation, plus we can give you tips on maintaining your new fiberglass door so it lasts and looks good for many years to come.