Whether you own a home or a business, keeping it safe and secure is your first priority. You need high-quality materials to protect every person (family member or employee) and all the items (belongings or merchandise) inside.
This sentiment poses a question: do you need steel or fiberglass entry doors? Continue reading to find out the information you need to make an educated decision.
What To Know About Steel Entry Doors
Let’s start by getting to know some of the qualities of steel doors.
Steel Has Different Levels of Security
Many people praise steel for its strength. In fact, it’s one of the best materials for security purposes for a variety of facilities. We can divide its strength into four levels:
- Level 1: Standard
- Level 2: Heavy Duty
- Level 3: Extra Heavy Duty
- Level 4: Maximum Duty
Industrial facilities often choose Level 3 or 4 steel doors for extra heavy-duty security. Schools use Levels 2 and 3 for the building’s exterior, classroom, and stairwell doors. Medical buildings primarily install Levels 2 and 3 steel doors for added protection for all patients and staff.
Steel Is the Most Secure Material
Nothing can match or surpass steel’s strength! You never know when a break-in or an accident will occur. Fortunately, solid steel will maintain its strength for 30 years or more. The heavy composition and layers of tough metal protect buildings and homes from various threats.
Steel Has the Potential to Rust, but Don’t Let That Deter You
Steel is a combination of iron and carbon, and unfortunately, that leaves it open to rust. Rust occurs when iron reacts with oxygen and water. Over time, rain and humidity can cause steel entry doors to form rust spots.
However, this shouldn’t be a considerable concern for any buyers contemplating steel doors. The material is simple to maintain, so as long as you take care of it, you can avoid rust. Apply car wax or linseed oil every six months to a clean steel door. Or you can try a galvanizing spray to repel water and prevent the metal commercial door from rusting.
Steel Is Available With Fire-Rated Approval
Fire rating describes a material that reduces the spread of smoke and flames. Most doors succumb to fires quickly, and the flames rapidly engulf other areas of the building.
Steel is different! The fire-rated feature will give people more time to evacuate and protect themselves from harm.
Remember that if you prefer a fire-rated steel door, you’ll need to choose the right one. Although most steel entry doors have fire ratings, you want to ensure the one you purchase is fire-rated so that you can collect all the benefits.
Steel Is an Energy-Efficient Material
Energy efficiency is a feature that homeowners and business owners alike strive for. It reduces energy costs while establishing a comfortable environment. Steel doors use two pieces of metal. Whenever air attempts to pass through, the hollow metal creates a shell around an insulated polystyrene or honeycomb core.
What To Know About Fiberglass Entry Doors
The next step in deciding which type of door is better is to learn about fiberglass properties.
Fiberglass Contains Resin and Glass Fibers
Manufacturers blend fine glass fibers with raw materials like silica sand and limestone to enhance plastic polymers. As a result, this type of entry door is waterproof! This is a perk that’s beneficial for homes and businesses because it reduces the need for frequent repairs or replacements.
Fiberglass Possesses Thermal-Resistant Properties
One of the benefits of fiberglass is it doesn’t spread heat easily. The materials slow heat’s movement through pockets of air.
Additionally, fiberglass can withstand at least 20 minutes of fire exposure. It will endure up to 1,400 degrees Fahrenheit before it breaks down. This allows people time to find a safe exit before the fire spreads.
Fiberglass Is a Great Insulator
In addition to fiberglass’s thermal resistance, it’s also a great insulator. The polyurethane foam core creates a high R-value to keep air circulating indoors.
On occasion, fiberglass outdoes steel when it comes to energy efficiency. It’s suitable for a wide variety of climates and can keep any unwanted air from slipping through the cracks.
Fiberglass Can Look Like a Wood Door
Not all durable doors look like pure metal. Fiberglass is a material homeowners adore because it can look like natural wood. Manufacturers mimic wood grain and various natural stains to create an authentic appearance.
A Few Things To Think About
What Is the Climate Like?
Metal doors don’t react favorably to quickly changing temperatures. Fiberglass will perform better than steel in an environment with frequent fluctuating temperatures.
How Much Security Does the Building Require?
When it comes down to security, steel is the best option. This is because it’s more resistant to damage than fiberglass.
Damage from potential break-ins, inclement weather, and impactful accidents will leave a repairable dent. On the other hand, fiberglass is more likely to falter when hit with extreme force.
What Is Your Budget for the Project?
Steel is more affordable than fiberglass in both material cost and installation. The price of fiberglass can range from 700 dollars to 3,000 dollars, not including the installation cost. Steel is only about 700 dollars to 2,000 dollars for the material, depending on the thickness.
Make Your Final Choice: Steel or Fiberglass?
Do you need a steel or a fiberglass entry door? Let’s think back to some of the standout features listed above.
Fiberglass is customizable to look like an average wood door, but it will keep the building safer than wood can. It’s great for keeping your business or home secure without compromising on style. In this case, the price is worth it for the desired look.
While fiberglass is a great insulator, steel is ideal for security purposes. It’s more beneficial for industrial or manufacturing facilities that need ample protection.
It’s time to make a decision! In the end, both doors are high-quality and long-lasting, and they both guarantee safety. Use the details you’ve learned to guide you to the right entry door for your business or home!
