Comprehensive guide to door materials, security features, and styles. Compare fiberglass, steel, and wood entry doors.
Fiberglass entry doors are the most popular choice for homeowners seeking a combination of durability, energy efficiency, and low maintenance. They resist denting, warping, and rotting, and can be finished with realistic wood-grain textures or painted in any color. Fiberglass doors offer excellent insulation with polyurethane foam cores that outperform wood, and they maintain their appearance for decades without the need for refinishing. They are available in both traditional and contemporary styles with a wide range of glass insert options.
Steel entry doors provide the highest level of security at the most affordable price point. They feature heavy-gauge steel skins over insulating foam cores, delivering excellent energy efficiency and resistance to forced entry. Steel doors are ideal for homeowners who prioritize security and budget, though they can be prone to denting and may show rust if the finish is scratched in humid climates. Wood entry doors offer unmatched natural beauty and can be custom-crafted in virtually any design, but they require regular maintenance to prevent warping, swelling, and rot from moisture exposure.
Regardless of material, security features like multi-point locking systems, reinforced strike plates, and deadbolt-ready preparations are essential for protecting your home. Weather sealing is equally important — look for doors with adjustable thresholds, compression weatherstripping, and interlocking astragals on double-door configurations. Our Door Security & Materials Guide walks you through every factor so you can choose the right door for your home's style, security needs, and climate.