Insulated Exterior Doors
Whether you’re replacing a door in your current home or selecting doors for a new one, insulated steel or fiberglass doors are often the best choice. These doors offer a winning combination of durability, energy efficiency, and aesthetic versatility.
Durability & Maintenance
Insulated doors are built with a polyurethane insulation core (R-13 value), sandwiched between two layers of either 24-gauge steel or fiberglass-reinforced plastic. The edges of the door slab are reinforced with wood to provide strength for hinges and handles. The door's design is embossed into the fiberglass or steel skin for a refined finish.
Frames and Weatherproofing
- Frames are made from knot-free finger-jointed pine, ensuring dimensional stability. These are wrapped in durable vinyl to match the door’s finish.
- The sill is made of extruded aluminum with a wood core, providing stability and longevity.
- Weatherstripping and a door sweep are installed to block drafts and improve energy efficiency.
Maintenance-Free Finish: The finish on these doors is highly durable, weatherproof, and resistant to fading. There’s no need to repaint or install a screen door for protection. Occasional cleaning is all that’s required.
Energy Efficiency: Proper installation ensures a tight seal, maximizing the door’s energy-saving potential. Additionally, the lockset will function smoothly when fitted correctly.
Aesthetic Options
Insulated doors come in a wide variety of styles to complement any home.
Slab Designs: Choose from traditional six-panel styles, Craftsman-inspired looks, or sleek modern designs like Vog and Linea.
Paint Colors: Manufacturers offer standard paint options and can custom-match any color you choose.
Smooth Fiberglass Slabs: Perfect for a painted finish to match or contrast your home.
Wood-Grained Fiberglass Slabs: Can be stained to mimic the elegance of traditional wood, offering the classic look with far less maintenance.
Glass Options
Glass inserts are highly customizable, offering styles that range from traditional leaded designs to minimalist modern options. Some glass choices, like Edge Sandblasted, provide privacy with a clear border for visibility, offering the best of both worlds.
Custom Options for Perfect Fit
When Quality Homes & Renovations measures for your new door, several factors are carefully considered to ensure a perfect fit:
- Slab Height and Width: Standardized sizes ensure compatibility with existing openings.
- Frame Depth: Adjusted to match your wall thickness and exterior finish.
- Sill Depth: Chosen to ensure proper extension without overhang or lack of support.
Choosing the Right Door: What to Consider
With so many options available, here are a few tips to help you make the right choice.
- Is your home modern, traditional, or somewhere in between? Pick a slab design that complements your home’s overall style.
- A contrasting color for the front door (e.g., black) can create a bold statement. Alternatively, matching white doors with white windows and fascia can provide a clean, cohesive look.
- Determine how much natural light you want. If privacy is important, consider obscure glass styles like sandblasted options. The size and placement of the glass insert are also key factors.
The Bottom Line
Insulated steel and fiberglass exterior doors combine functionality, beauty, and energy efficiency. With their durability, low maintenance, and countless customization options, they’re a smart investment for any home. Let Quality Homes & Renovations help you build your new door today!
