For homeowners in the market to replace an exterior door, there are more viable options available than ever—and choices for things like size, color and design variety are either plentiful or customizable. So, with an entire suite of options available to the discerning purchaser, why should oak doors or a fiberglass oak door alternative be part of the conversation?

 

Why Choose an Oak Door?

When it comes to materials for exterior doors, it really doesn’t get more traditional than wood. The different types of wood available are numerous and include mainstays like mahogany, cherry, walnut and oak. If you’ve narrowed your choice of building material down to wood from options like steel or fiberglass, why should you continue to narrow that choice down to oak? 

 

The Pros and Cons of Oak and Wood Doors

 As with most decisions in home design—and in general—there are positive and negative outcomes when choosing to go with a particular door material. Oak is no different, but it does differentiate itself from other materials by being a wood, and from other woods due to its unique characteristics. Whether or not those characteristics interest you enough to convince you to ignore any possible flaws will be a major deciding factor in your use of oak or any of its alternatives.

 

An Overabundance of Oak

If you’re choosing oak as the material for your home’s front doors, the possibilities that decision presents are plentiful. There are hundreds of species of oak to choose from, including the popular white and red varieties. In addition to the large number of oak options, the large amount of oak in existence in this world ensures that your use of some with which to craft a front door has little impact on the species’ overall population. 

 

Oak and Finishes

Oak can be easy to pick out due to its wide, visible grain. This grain is even more pronounced in oak that’s quarter sawn, which means the wood is quartered horizontally before it’s sawn. This differs from the more common plain sawing or flat sawing and because it involves extra work it’s also more expensive. However, quarter sawing will cause the oak to have less cupping, more stability, and an overall higher quality than plain sawing. 

Oak’s very prevalent grain means that homeowners with oak doors must maintain a consummate finish on the door. Luckily, oak is stain compatible as it stains easily, and it usually weathers finely which turns its wear and tear into a personality trait. 

 

Oak and Durability

In general, wood is a less durable material to trust with your front door duties than metal or fiberglass. Wood’s also less energy efficient and less resistant to damage from extreme weather. Despite this, oak is one of the best woods with which to fashion a front door.

The high density of oak means the wood is hard, sturdy and strong, making it a good candidate if wood is the necessary route for your next front door. The increased density will reduce outside noise from entering the house, preserving privacy and allowing for peace and relaxation. 

The flip side of this is the wear and tear oak can dish out to hinges. It’s okay to install the same number of hinges on an oak door as you’d install on any other door, but the hinges on an oak door should be longer than usual. 

You should also use screw anchors to solidify the door’s place when installing it into the doorway. Taking precautions like this can help lengthen the lifespan of a door while saving you a world of trouble in the not-too-distant future. 

Oak is also high in tannin, a biomolecule that gives the wood a natural resistance to attack from fungi and insects. Tannin is named after oak and other woods containing high counts of the biomolecule. Bark from those woods is used during the tanning process that creates leather.

 

Oak is High Maintenance

Wood doors, including oak, require refinishing every 2-to-3 years if they’re being used as an exterior door and they’re exposed to the elements. If you live in places with extreme temperatures or harsh weather, you may want to steer clear of oak altogether. 

The wood has a habit of warping, swelling or shrinking in climates that are rainy or humid, regardless of whether they’re being used on the interior or exterior of a home. It’s best for oak doors to be used in more mild climates, but even then, they’ll need the sort of attention described above.

When refinishing the door, you’ll need to sand away the old finishing and apply the new, which means removing the door from its hinges and placing it back on after the job is done. There are professionals who perform refinishes, but this route can be costly.

 

Oak Door Costs

 If you’ve ever shopped for doors, you know that a sturdy, solid oak exterior door can carry a high price point. However, like any product, that price is decided by a range of features that are mostly optional, including ornate detailing, utilization of the aforementioned quarter sawn wood, or handcrafting the door to fit an unorthodox space. 

In reality, if you’re shopping for a door and have a budgetary range, you should be able to find an oak door that fits into any size budget. You should also be able to find doors made with other materials that fit your monetary parameters, too, including materials that will require less and offer more. 

 

Oak Door Alternatives

While oak is a popular and versatile choice for an exterior door, alternatives exist that may better match your needs. 

Choosing a different wood is a decision that’s mostly aesthetic—woods do vary in density and weight, but for the purposes of an exterior door, they’re very similar when it comes to their durability and the level of upkeep necessary to keep them in good condition. 

Metal doors last longer and are more energy efficient, but they can’t provide the classic look that a wooden exterior door lends to a home’s entryway. If you’re in the market for longevity but still value the curb appeal that a traditional wooden door lends to a home, fiberglass is the way to go.

The fiberglass oak door series available from Plastpro replicates the look of an oak door, grain and all, to provide the aesthetic of a natural exterior door while affording its owner the amenities accessed by choosing fiberglass. Plastpro doors also include a polyurethane foam core that increases a home’s energy efficiency, and the makeup of their materials means they’re better suited to withstand extreme conditions. Check out Plastpro’s oak series of doors to preview the line’s design variety and benefits, including complementary decorative glass. 

The doors in Plastpro’s oak series also feature stain compatibility, just like their natural counterparts. Fiberglass doors are a cost-effective option since they require very little staining and maintenance, saving you money in the long run. That isn’t to say staining won’t be necessary if you want to achieve your preferred presentation. In addition to the mimicked look and texture of oak’s unique grain, use Plastpro door stain kits to achieve the perfect color!

For a timeless, clean look, Plastpro’s white oak series offers pre-pigmented doors that come in a wide array of panel designs, feature decorative glass and offer the same perks as the base oak series. 

 

Upgrade Your Door with Plastpro

Of all the different species of wood used to create exterior doors, oak is one of the most popular options on the market today. It’s dense enough to offer privacy, it has a built-in defense against natural threats like bugs and fungi, its grain is uniquely beautiful and it naturally appears in a vast array of colors. 

However, oak is also temperamental in temperate or humid climates, can weigh down hinges, and can be pricey. It also suffers from the same pitfalls of any wooden exterior door—it takes a lot of time and money to keep up, with staining replacements recommended every 2-to-3 years. 

Plastpro’s oak and white oak fiberglass doors offer a strikingly similar recreation of natural wood that’s affordable and saves money by cutting down on maintenance and energy costs. The doors can be customized—both feature-wise and with different staining kits—as well as built to fit most entryways. Additionally, fiberglass doors aren’t impacted by extreme weather like wood doors are, and they can better protect themselves and the home they hang on from extreme situations. 

To purchase a Plastpro fiberglass door from the company’s oak series, white oak series or any other design you’re interested in, click here to find a Plastpro dealer. If you want a wooden look, Plastpro’s fiberglass exterior doors provide a pleasing aesthetic while taking advantage of modern door technology. 

 

If you’re looking to add a touch of elegance to your front door, make sidelight installation one of the options considered during your decision-making process. The addition of sidelights can drastically alter a home’s entry doors, and set your exterior apart from that of your neighbors. But while you may desire a unique approach for your home, there are established practices that can guide your choice of sidelight, as well as your choices for installation.

 

What are Front Door Sidelights?

The name sidelights can be misleading. Yes, these door accents are usually narrow, vertical pieces that run along the left-hand and right-hand sides of a door. No, they don’t usually feature any lights for entry illumination. Instead, the name refers to the fact that these additions to an exterior door usually include glass—sometimes they’re made of more than 50% glass—and that allows for more natural light to enter a living space.

The amount of glass in a sidelight is up to personal preference, as well as the shape, size and materials that make up the sidelight. The glass inside a sidelight can also be customized, allowing for more or less light, privacy, or ornate detail. 

You may also find sidelights being referred to as sidelites or, in the case of fiberglass door maker Plastpro, doorlites. Decorative glass like doorlites can bring an element of beauty and sophistication to your front entry door through a variety of textured backdrops and classic styles.

 

Why Include Sidelights in Your Front Door?

When added alongside exterior doors, sidelights can drastically bump up your home’s curb appeal. Additionally, if you have a door with built-in glass features, sidelights can create a look that expands on those features and acts as an extension of the door itself. The result can be a grand display of glass and other building materials brought together for the purpose of enhancing both a home’s appearance and a visitor’s experience. 

If a door doesn’t have any glass features, sidelights can be utilized for a high-quality entryway presentation that’s welcoming for both the everyday inhabitants of a home, as well as their visitors. An entryway with sidelights would also be more welcoming to natural light, allowing it into a home to provide added visibility. That visibility often goes both ways, too—the glass features of sidelights allow those inside the home to better observe yards and porches.

Adding sidelights to your current front door is one of the fastest ways to make a change in your home’s personality.

 

Installing Sidelights to an Existing Door

Enjoying the benefits of sidelights doesn’t have to mean a total front door replacement. The materials, length, width, amount of glass and glass placement in a sidelight can all be customized, so your new sidelights can match the color, size, shape and glass features of your existing door—or they can incorporate new design elements to further expand the aesthetic footprint of exterior doors.

When it comes to installing sidelights that complement an existing front door, you may want to consult the party you’re using to design, manufacture or find the sidelights. If you plan to install sidelights yourself, remember that it’s safe to assume any exterior wall is a load-bearing wall, so plan accordingly. As you’ll most likely be working with glass, also remember to wear proper safety equipment.

 

Sidelights Best Practices

As with most home additions, sidelights come with their own set of established rules—or, at the most, strong suggestions that certainly feel like the recommended way of doing things. 

First, sidelights should be employed in pairs so the entryway remains symmetrical. This is especially true if entry doors themselves feature symmetrical panels or other design features. Adding an arch above the door can further enhance this look. However, all rules are meant to be broken and modern doors can be an exception. They often sport asymmetrical features like long, vertical glass panes adorning the left-hand or right-hand side of a door. 

Sidelights should also match a door in terms of color, materials or stain. However, if your home has a color palette that includes multiple colors that mesh well with each other, sidelights can be used to incorporate one or more of those colors around exterior doors. If it breaks rules but looks good, maybe your home has a different set of best practices. 

Homeowners seeking privacy should stick with sidelights that place their glass features at the top, minimalizing visibility into the home. Different available glass options will adjust visibility and the amount of natural light that enters the home.

Sidelights are meant to accent a door, not take it over, so be conservative with size.

Sidelights are usually wasted on interior doors, unless there’s one particular space that receives a very large amount of sunlight and you’d like it to find its way into the next room.

Sidelights, like most additions to a home, have been utilized so much that homeowners have created a set of rules for others to follow. However, given your home’s current aesthetic and your desired design preferences, those rules may exist to be broken.

 

Choosing the Perfect Front Door and Sidelights with Plastpro

If you’re looking for a range of options in both the sidelights and door departments—including the ability to customize a door to fit your current door frame—check out Plastpro. Additionally, Plastpro’s fiberglass doors offer a bump in security, durability and energy efficiency when compared to their traditional wooden counterparts. Find a Plastpro dealer near you to begin your journey towards a new and improved entryway!

The utilization of glass at home can instantly change a dwelling’s dynamic. Glass options can make spaces feel roomier than they actually are, add a touch of luxury or modernity to a home’s features, and provide homeowners with a viable alternative to other building materials. 

There are a lot of reasons to give glass a chance, but some may find it hard to get over the negative connotations the word carries. Hearing the word glass doesn’t exactly inspire thoughts of strength—from houses to hearts, popular culture is full of references to glass being a fragile thing. When it comes to reality, though, is glass strong enough to be a trusted part of the structure that keeps you and your family safe during your most vulnerable moments? Specifically, can glass cut it as an entry door?

 

Glass Front Doors Pros

Glass has curb appeal, and glass front doors are no exception—especially when compared to their counterparts in metal and wood. Decorative glass can be utilized to display a wide array of designs and patterns without compromising its ability to act as a safe barrier from the outside world, and other aspects such as color can be part of those decorations. Front doors made of glass can also provide breathtaking views of the decorations hung up by Mother Nature, with full glass doors acting as enticing options for homes built in scenic areas.

No matter the scenery, these sorts of doors are still great for letting natural light into a space, eliminating the need for energy use during the bulk of the day and adding a touch of natural flair to a home. When it comes time to clean those doors and make sure as much light is coming in as possible, homeowners will find maintenance on their glass doors to be as easy as spraying a door with glass cleaner and wiping it down.

 

Glass Front Doors Cons

There are pros and cons to every choice, and the same goes for choosing glass entry doors over other front door options.

There’s a trade off with nature. Yes, folks with glass doors can observe more of the outside world and enjoy the benefits of sunlight, but a lack of insulation means that an unwanted aspect of the outside world—the cold—can find its way into a home easier than it would through an insulated front door.

Observing more of the outside world may also mean it can observe more of you, too. Glass front doors can give onlookers the option to get unnecessarily familiar with the interior of your home.

Lastly, despite advancements in glass durability, the material is still behind its contemporaries when it comes to withstanding blunt force. However, front door glass is usually thicker than the glass used in windows or a patio door, so the likelihood someone will break the glass and break into your home doesn’t necessarily change with the installation of a glass door.

 

Are Glass Front Doors Private?

Glass front doors can be as private as you’d like them to be.

A rating system that ranks the privacy level of glass is usually assigned to doors made from the substance, with 10 acting as the ceiling of privacy. If the ratings are too much for you or you’re just looking to handle your issue without having to handle all the jargon, focus on a privacy-minded glass, like a frosted option.

 

What Type of Glass is Used in Front Doors?

Frosted is just one of the many types of glass that’s usually utilized in a front door. Tempered glass and safety glass are both similarly suited to protect your home, while laminated glass covers the glass in a chemical that keeps it together, even if it’s eventually broken.

Plastpro’s fiberglass doors provide a spin on the material and pair the processed glass that is fiberglass with other elements, such as insulated cores. The company’s Nova series places large panes of glass within their fiberglass doors creating an appealing, durable marriage that allows full glass to also feel safe and economical.

 

Should I Purchase a Glass Front Door?

If you find yourself drawn to glass entry doors, consider following through—especially if your prospective glass front door is also made from fiberglass. The uptick in your energy bill that’s caused by the exposed glass portion of the door may be completely offset by fiberglass and its propensity for energy efficiency. Fiberglass also adds durability to the equation and allows for secure safety additions to the side of the door, like deadbolts. Fiberglass doors have proven to be secure points of entry that bolster home security.

 

Secure and Beautiful Doors from Plastpro

Whether they’re the aforementioned Nova series or the heavily customizable glass doorlites, Plastpro has beautiful and unique options for homeowners looking to utilize glass in their home design aesthetic. Find a Plastpro dealer near you to explore the different ways glass and fiberglass can be utilized to create a welcoming, safe entryway.

 

Your front door fulfills so many different roles for you, your family and your home. It acts as a first impression for visitors and members of the community who may walk or drive by. It welcomes you back to your home after spending time away. It serves as the focal point of a dwelling’s front-facing design, informing other stylistic choices like overhangs and landscaping. Possibly most important of all, though, is its role in keeping the residency’s inhabitants safe from incursion.

Since the main entry door usually does draw attention to itself through appearance and accessibility, it can become the first place undesired, dangerous visitors try to break and subsequently enter. That’s why home security begins with a secure front door, but when it comes to high security, not all doors are created equal. If you’re looking for reliably secure material in the world of exterior doors, there are options that have proven safer than others.

Wood Doors

Wooden doors have certainly withstood the test of time, remaining one of the most popular entry door material options in the modern era. However, wood doors need a little help withstanding time itself.

The integrity of a wooden door could be compromised if it isn’t properly cared for—bowing and warping can weaken the door, making it susceptible to forced entry. Upkeep is critically important to a wooden door’s integrity, with proper finishing and diligent refinishing acting as the main method of reinforcing the door against elemental attack. Be sure to coat the side of the door, along with the top and the bottom, to better protect against moisture.

The best option to help ensure a wood door withstands any other sorts of attacks is a solid wood door. A product carrying that term usually has a thickness of 1 3/4” and will provide reliable protection from unwanted visitors. A solid wooden door is also more energy efficient than its thinner counterparts, somewhat addressing one of the wood door’s biggest drawbacks. However, wood doors, especially solid wood doors, often come at a premium price making them less accessible to homeowners on a budget. 

Steel Doors

If you’re in the market for a secure front door, steel doors provide an extremely viable option since they’re going to endure dents, scratches and other blemishes without compromising the integrity of the door. With any violent blows inflicted upon them, they aren’t very likely to come down—especially if they’re installed in tandem with an equally strong locking system, like a deadbolt.

In terms of cost, steel doors can be the easiest initial investment. That savings will equate to higher monthly expenses, though, as exterior doors made with steel aren’t as energy efficient as entry doors made with fiberglass. Steel doors also offer less styles than their competition, despite many adopting the panel look made popular by wood entry doors in an effort to offer some texture and dimension. Steel doors aren’t entirely safe from the elements, either, as they are susceptible to rusting and easily show cosmetic damage like dents and scratches.

Fiberglass Doors

Doors crafted from fiberglass are very similar to steel doors in the durability department, but they won’t dent and are harder to scratch than a steel door, plus they’re extremely difficult to snap or crack. Weather isn’t an issue for them either, as they’re built to withstand intense conditions for long periods of time with little-to-no maintenance compared to wooden doors. They can be finished, sanded and refinished, but the materials they’re crafted from means they’re inherently better equipped to withstand the elements than wood or steel.

Fiberglass doors can present a higher barrier for entry than other options, but they also boast a higher energy efficiency than both steel and wood exterior doors, helping keep regular utility costs low. Purchasing a door that’s aesthetically pleasing is easier with fiberglass doors, as the material can be formed into a number of different shapes mimicking everything from classic wood mainstays or modern sheer designs. Plastpro has a service that works with homeowners to provide custom fiberglass doors for their homes, no matter the size.

Additional Security Measures

Homeowners can take steps beyond their front door material to add layers of security to their home.

Consider a lock system that goes beyond the basics, such as the aforementioned deadbolt. Maintain a well-lit entryway free of obstructions so any potential intruder can be seen. Invest in one of the many affordable home security systems on the market and consider purchasing a fiberglass door created to stand up to the harshest of conditions. 

Other Factors to Consider When Purchasing a Door

Safety is important, but if doors match similarly in that department, which other criteria can be counted on during the purchasing process?

It’s been a point made throughout, but energy efficiency can keep your family comfortable while keeping utility costs low—and fiberglass doors do it better than any others. On top of their contributions to lower energy costs, fiberglass doors hold up well to extreme weather, everyday wear and tear, and even violent attack. Finally, fiberglass doors can mimic traditional designs, provide your home with a striking modern look or be customized to fit your particular needs. This list touches on almost all points homeowners are looking to cover when pursuing a new door.

Get Secure and Long-lasting Doors with Plastpro

With 1 million fiberglass doors produced a year bearing the Plastpro name, it’s safe to say a large number of homeowners rely on these doors for the security of their households. It’s also a safe bet that working with that many fiberglass doors strengthened the company’s knowledge when it comes to producing a time-tested product that’ll last. Explore your fiberglass door options at a Plastpro dealer and begin enjoying the benefits of fiberglass entry doors!

There’s a lot that goes into choosing an exterior door, but the most important consideration is door material. Different door materials will perform differently, and weighing the pros and cons of each will help determine which is best for you.

 

When comparing wood, steel, and fiberglass doors, fiberglass often pulls ahead in many top categories. Let’s take a look at some of the most important benefits of fiberglass doors—and why they are a great fit for most homes.

5 Benefits of Fiberglass Doors

 

Durability

One area where fiberglass doors excel over their wood or steel counterparts is durability. Exterior doors are an investment, and fiberglass doors typically hold up better over time than other types of doors—and taking good care of a fiberglass door can make it last a lifetime.

While wood doors are often chosen for their aesthetic value, they are also prone to rotting, warping, or cracking. That can mean costly repairs or needing to replace the door altogether. With fiberglass doors, these issues are virtually nonexistent, ensuring the door can stay looking great and functioning at a high level for many years.

The same can be said when compared to steel doors. While often more durable than wood, steel is still prone to rusting and denting—issues that won’t affect fiberglass doors. Fiberglass doors are also lighter than steel doors, which reduces the stress on the hinges and keeps the door operating smoothly.

 

Security

Fiberglass doors are built to last—which leads to the next point: security. Fiberglass doors are often fitted with high-density door cores that make them durable and highly secure. And because fiberglass doors stay in top condition for a long time, they help keep the entryway safe and secured for years.

Different manufacturers may equip their doors with a variety of safety features as well. For example, Plastpro fiberglass doors feature a proprietary, high-density polyurethane core that is built to stand up not only against forced entry attempts, but severe weather as well. 

Plastpro doors also feature a full-length lock block, ensuring that the door can be equipped with the best exterior door lock of your choosing.

 

Energy Efficiency

Safety is a top priority when choosing a new door, but exterior doors are responsible for a lot more than that. One of the most important functions of any good exterior door is energy efficiency. 

Fiberglass doors shine in this regard. Due to their strong door cores and minimal heat exchange, fiberglass doors can reduce energy bills and keep the home at a comfortable temperature in any season. Specifically, look for an ENERGY STAR-certified fiberglass door for top performance and major, long-term savings on energy.

 

Environmentally Friendly

Energy efficiency plays a major role in environmental friendliness. Because fiberglass doors help to conserve energy, they tend to have a lower environmental impact than wood or steel doors—but that’s not all. They’re also typically made from recycled materials and, given their long lifespans, produce less waste than other door types as well. All of these factors together make fiberglass doors a top choice for those looking for an eco-friendly exterior door.

 

Design Versatility

Performance is always a key consideration—but many homeowners also want their front door curb appeal to be high. Fiberglass doors come in a variety of design options that can match nearly any home and any aesthetic preference.

While many homeowners opt for the look of wood doors, some fiberglass doors feature wood grain shells that give them the appearance of a wood door, but with all the benefits of fiberglass. From classic Oak to rich Mahogany, fiberglass doors can match the desired look without sacrificing performance.

Fiberglass doors are also great for a more modern design as well. Available in sleek designs that can be painted any trendy front door color, fiberglass doors are great for contemporary or minimalistic homes.

 

Experience the Benefits of Fiberglass Doors

At the end of the day, the benefits of fiberglass doors make them a great fit for most homes. The combination of durability, security, and energy efficiency is unmatched—and with plenty of design options, it’s easy to find the right door for any architectural style and personal preference.

Plastpro takes pride in the benefits of fiberglass—all Plastpro fiberglass doors are designed and built with them in mind. Our doors are long-lasting, highly secure, and ENERGY STAR-certified for energy efficiency.

Experience the benefits of a fiberglass door today–visit our Where to Buy page to find a Plastpro dealer near you.

Sustainability is more important than ever, and many people and businesses are putting renewed focus on the environmental impact of products and processes. In construction, this can range from earning certification for meeting LEED requirements all the way down to the individual building elements chosen.

Whether you’re designing a new home from the ground up or you’re searching for ways to make your existing home more sustainable, there are many steps to take in creating an environmentally conscious home. One important consideration is choosing eco-friendly exterior doors. 

Doors can play a major role in the overall eco-friendliness of the home. Let’s take a look at how to choose an eco-friendly exterior door.

 

Choosing an Eco-Friendly Exterior Door

Finding an eco-friendly exterior door isn’t difficult as long as you know what to look for. Here are the most important factors to consider.

Door Material

Door material is arguably the most important consideration when it comes to eco-friendliness. This includes not only the material itself, but also how it’s sourced. For example, wood is a natural resource and can be an eco-friendly choice—however, it can be difficult to find sustainably sourced wood doors.

Steel doors are often made from recycled materials, making them a good eco-friendly choice. That being said, fiberglass doors are also made from recycled materials, and they are generally more durable when compared to steel doors. Fiberglass is resistant to dents and scratches, two common issues for steel doors.

Therefore, fiberglass is typically a highly recommended material when it comes to eco-friendly exterior doors—especially because they also perform well in our next category.

Energy Efficiency

Energy efficient doors will help reduce energy consumption, contributing to a more sustainable home. Therefore, eco-friendly exterior doors should be extremely energy efficient.

Door material influences the overall energy efficiency of an exterior door, but it’s not the sole determining factor. Fiberglass doors generally perform exceptionally well when it comes to energy efficiency, but buyers should also research the specific door core used. A high-density foam core is a great choice for maximum energy efficiency.

Additionally, door glass can also be a major source of lost energy, but LowE glass can be a good eco-friendly alternative. LowE glass features specialized coating that helps minimize heat transfer, keeping internal temperatures comfortable and steady.

To ensure the door meets energy efficiency standards, only choose a door that is ENERGY STAR rated. This denotes that the door meets federal guidelines regarding energy efficiency.

Door Manufacturer

Choosing an eco-friendly exterior door should also include more than just the door itself. Choosing a door from a manufacturer committed to sustainable production means supporting overall positive environmental well-being.

Look for manufactures that specifically use sustainable practices and materials, not only for their doors but for all their products and services.

 

Why Choose Eco-Friendly Exterior Doors?

It’s true that eco-friendly exterior doors and other materials generally cost more, and it can be tempting to attempt to maximize budget by choosing less sustainable options. However, there’s more to take into consideration.

While the initial cost may be substantial, investing in eco-friendly exterior doors—and most other eco-friendly home choices—will result in long-term savings that will greatly surpass the initial savings of less sustainable options. 

One of the biggest sources of savings: energy. Because eco-friendly exterior doors are extremely energy efficient, the cost of heating and cooling will be lower. Over time, the yearly savings on energy bills will eventually surpass the initial price difference. A truly sustainable home—complete with eco-friendly doors, windows, appliances, and energy sources—will result in major long-term savings, making it an increasingly attractive option for homeowners.

Plus, while saving money, homeowners investing in eco-friendly options are contributing to the greater health of the environment, making it a win-win.

 

Check Out Plastpro’s Eco-Friendly Exterior Doors

When it comes time for an eco-friendly exterior door, look no further than Plastpro. Plastpro’s lineup of fiberglass doors are made with sustainability in mind. Each door features a proprietary, high-density polyurethane foam core that provides superior insulation and energy efficiency. Not only that, but the cores are developed in compliance with the EPA’s Snap 20 regulations and without volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

Plastpro’s fiberglass doors are built to last a lifetime—minimizing waste and reducing the overall long-term cost of the door. Combined with the savings on energy, Plastpro doors are a cost effective choice that can’t be beat.

To learn where to get Plastpro’s eco-friendly exterior doors, visit our Where to Buy page.

 

Choosing a new front door can be exciting—but it can quickly become challenging when faced with the number of options available. From door materials to panel designs and everything in between, there are many factors to consider when making a selection. However, one of the most important considerations is the architectural style of the home.

Some door types or colors synergize with certain home styles better than others. In fact, the front door can play a major role in tying the entire aesthetic of the home together. 

One of the most common home styles is the ranch house. If you’re building a ranch home, or living in one already, you may want to consider a front door that pairs well with the ranch style. Let’s take a look at a few tips to guide you along the way.

 

What is a Ranch-Style Home?

First, let’s take a look at what differentiates a ranch-style home. While the ranch home originated in the American Southwest, this home style can now be found across the United States. The specific design may vary by region, but the general characteristics remain the same throughout.

Most commonly, ranch-style homes are known for being a single story. They also typically feature open concepts to maximize space, as well as an outdoor patio or deck. Though the homes only have one story, many ranch homes feature a finished basement to add more space.

Ranch homes are typically rectangular. They generally feature large windows in the front of the home, and many include a sliding glass door leading to the patio or deck area. In many cases, ranch-style homes also feature attached garages.

 

How to Choose a Ranch-Style Home Front Door

Let’s take a look at some of the most important factors when choosing a front door for a ranch style home.

Type of Ranch Home

There are a variety of ranch homes types that feature their own spin on the classic design. The front door you choose can ultimately depend on which type of ranch home you have. 

For example, a California ranch is designed to highlight the natural features of the space, often using the surrounding environment to accent the home. In this case, choosing a natural grain or rustic-style front door would be ideal to compliment the natural features.

Conversely, a storybook ranch features a completely different design focus. Storybook ranches incorporate ornate and decorative designs to create a whimsical aesthetic—hence their other name, the fairytale ranch. In this case, opting for a highly decorative front door featuring eccentric door glass would be more fitting.

Classic vs. Contemporary Styles

Ranch homes have been popular for a long time—long enough that some are now choosing to recreate the classic charm of the style. Whether it’s revamping an older home or simply building with that mid-century, 1960’s aesthetic in mind, ranch homes are a great option for warm, vintage colors and textures. If this is the goal, going with a timeless woodgrain front door will work well.

However, ranch homes aren’t limited to their roots. Many ranch homes now include a modern twist, with contemporary design elements incorporated into the style. While these homes can vary widely, opting for a modern-style front door such as a smooth skin fiberglass door can accentuate the contemporary elements. Color will depend on the home, but consider trending front door colors like red or seafoam green.

Natural Light

One of the hallmark qualities of ranch homes is natural light, being that they often feature large windows and a glass patio door. This goes perfectly with the open concept, as natural light will make the space look larger, brighter, and more inviting.

Because of this, it may be enticing to choose a glass front door to add more light to the space. However, door glass typically adds to the cost of the door. Therefore, it may be a more cost effective option to save on a door with no glass, being that the windows should take care of the job.

However, if the design of the ranch home features less windows or smaller windows, then opting for a glass front door can help enhance the space. The benefits of natural light are plentiful, and increasing your budget to get the most out of your home can be worth it in the long run.

Personal Preference

At the end of the day, choosing a ranch-style home front door should be about getting the look you want. Because ranch homes are a versatile home style, there are numerous front door styles that will fit well into the design. Consider elements like climate and energy efficiency in your decision, and then choose the style that best suits your design needs.

 

Get Your Next Front Door from Plastpro

Fitting your ranch-style home with a new front door doesn’t have to be difficult. Consider the factors above in your decision, and then opt for the design that best suits your individual style and needs.

Plastpro’s lineup of fiberglass doors are a great option for any home—including ranch homes. With various door skins, door styles, and door glass options to choose from, it’s easy to find the perfect door to fit your home and your needs. For example, Plastpro’s Oak Door Series can enhance the classic charm of a vintage ranch home, while the Nova Door Series is great when additional natural light is needed.

No matter which series you choose, Plastpro doors come backed with features like a proprietary, high-density door core for enhanced energy efficiency and door security, as well as Hydroshield Technology to stand up against the elements. 

Find out where you can get a Plastpro fiberglass door today by visiting our Where to Buy page, or try our Doorability tool to see a Plastpro door on your home.

When it comes time to getting a new door, there’s a lot to take into consideration. Factors like door material and door style will be high priorities, but one key choice to make is whether to go with a pre-hung or slab door.

Learning the difference between these different types of doors is important for making the best choice. Keep reading for a comparison of pre-hung vs. slab doors and when to choose one over the other.

 

What is a Pre-hung Door?

A pre-hung door is a door slab that is already hung in the door frame by the hinges. This creates a nearly complete package—though some features like the doorknob and strike plate need to be added. Pre-hung doors will typically need to be painted or stained as well.

 

Pros of a Pre-hung Door

Convenience

Pre-hung doors can make the door installation process much quicker. Because the door frame is included with the door, there is no need to build the frame or hang the door, cutting the overall time the project will take.

Door Seal

Because pre-hung doors are a nearly complete door unit, the door is already fitted to be weather-tight. This removes the need to ensure the door is sealed during installation—another reason why pre-hung doors generally require less time to install.

 

Cons of a Pre-hung Door

Difficult to manage

While pre-hung doors are typically easier to install, they are more difficult to handle being that they are much heavier than just the door slab itself. This is especially true of pre-hung exterior doors which generally have high density door cores.

Pre-hung door units can weigh upwards of 100 pounds, so they will require at least two people to move. They also need to be transported and handled carefully as they are fairly fragile before they are installed.

Cost

Though a pre-hung door is a convenient option, there is additional cost associated with the additional convenience and materials provided. The overall difference in price will also depend on specific elements like door material, door design, or door glass.

 

What is a Slab Door?

A slab door is a door without the frame or hinges. Door slabs can be purchased with a pre-cut hole for the doorknob, but the hardware—including doorknob, hinges, and strike plate—need to be purchased separately. 

 

Pros of a Slab Door

Design Options

Opting to go with a slab door can provide more design flexibility than pre-hung units. While many traditional door styles may be available in either type, more personalized door options may only be available as slab doors. Additionally, antique doors or other repurposed options typically only come as slab doors as well.

Easier to handle

Because a slab door is just the door itself, it’s much easier to transport and manage than a pre-hung door unit. 

 

Cons of a Slab Door

Can be difficult to install

While neither a pre-hung door nor a slab door are easy to install, a slab door can make for a more difficult installation—especially when the entire frame is new or needs to be replaced. Not only will it take more time to build the frame and hang the door, but it also requires skill and patience to ensure the door is hung and sealed properly.

In either case, professional installation is recommended, but those who opt for a DIY approach may have a more difficult time with a slab door depending on their experience level.

May require modification

Unlike a pre-hung door that is built ready to use, door slabs may require additional modifications to ensure they fit properly. Depending on the condition of the door, a slab door may need to be planed, sanded, or straightened. This is especially true of vintage or antique doors that may have warped or become damaged over time.

 

Pre-hung vs. Slab Door: Which is the Right Choice?

There’s no definitive answer on whether pre-hung or slab doors are best—the choice will be situational depending on a variety of factors. Let’s take a look at a few of the most important considerations that can influence the choice.

Type of project

One of the most important factors in choosing between pre-hung vs. slab doors is what type of project is being completed. 

For situations where there is an existing frame in place, a slab door is often a great choice being that the door can simply be hung in the existing frame.

Conversely, if it’s new construction or the existing frame is damaged or needs to be replaced, a pre-hung door is a good choice being that the new frame is included with the door.

Budget

A slab door is often the budget-friendly choice because there is less included—especially in situations where the frame does not need to be replaced. Additionally, reusing hardware like hinges from an existing door can also help create additional savings. 

For situations where the frame needs to be replaced, be sure to include the total cost of materials for the frame and the door hardware when comparing prices to similar pre-hung doors.

Interior vs. exterior doors

In general, pre-hung doors are best for exterior projects. This is due to the fact that the doors come weather-tight off the shelf, meaning improved energy efficiency and performance against the elements.

Either pre-hung or slab doors are a good fit for interior doors. However, because door seals aren’t as important for interior doors, opting to save on a door slab may be a good option.

Door design and customization

For those looking to create a unique or highly customized entryway, a slab door may be the best option given the broader range of design options. Slab doors are also best if you’re interested in using a recycled or repurposed door.

 

Get Started on Your Next Project with Plastpro

Whether you opt for a pre-hung or slab door, Plastpro has resources available to help with door installation. Check out our guides on installing pre-hung and slab doors to assist with your next project.

Additionally, Plastpro’s selection of exterior fiberglass doors are available in either pre-hung or door slab varieties to suit your needs. Featuring enhanced durability, energy efficiency, and door security, Plastpro’s fiberglass doors are built to keep your home safe and comfortable for a lifetime.

Visit our Where to Buy page to find a Plastpro dealer near you, or use our Doorability tool to see a Plastpro door on your home today.

No one likes a pesky draft in the winter or dealing with insects or other pests in the summer. Oftentimes, drafts and pests enter the home the same way that people do—through the doorway. So how can homeowners stop this?

Exterior door sweeps are one of the most effective solutions to these issues. Whether you’re adding a door sweep or upgrading an existing one, there are important factors to consider when choosing an exterior door sweep. Let’s take a look at some of the key elements to factor in for your new door sweep.

 

What is an Exterior Door Sweep

An exterior door sweep is a device that helps to seal the space between the bottom of a door and the threshold. Door sweeps are installed on the outside face of the door, preventing dust, water, and other elements from building up beneath the door and entering the home. 

Exterior door sweeps are typically made of vinyl, but they can also be made of brush material. They come in a variety of widths to fit standard door sizes.

 

Types of Door Sweeps

There are a variety of types of exterior door sweeps, each with their own strengths and weaknesses. Let’s take a look at some of the most common.

Peel & Stick Sweep

Peel & stick door sweeps are the easiest to install being that they are applied with an adhesive strip. This means there’s no need to drill into the door, making it a great temporary solution—such as for those renting. That said, peel & stick door sweeps typically aren’t the best permanent solution being that they aren’t as durable as those that are installed with fasteners.

Mounted Strip Sweep

A mounted strip is similar in design to a peel & stick door sweep, but it’s mounted to the door, typically using screws. This type of exterior door sweep generally utilizes a metal mount—oftentimes aluminum—that is screwed into the door. The vinyl strip is attached to the mount, hanging beneath the door when the sweep is mounted.

This type of door sweep provides a great balance of easy installation and performance. It’s more durable than a peel & stick being that it’s screwed into the door, and it’s easier to install than other types of door sweeps.

Brush/Bristle Sweep

Brush or bristle sweeps are generally the same as mounted strips in design—the only difference being the sweep material. Whereas most strip-style sweeps use vinyl, brush sweeps utilize bristles that resemble those of an outdoor broom.

Brush sweeps typically aren’t as effective as vinyl strip sweeps, especially when it comes to keeping out water. However, they will generally last longer than vinyl.

Automatic Sweep

Automatic sweeps typically require professional installation, but they offer top performance in exchange. Automatic door sweeps rise when the door is open and form a seal when the door is closed. This makes them a great choice for in-swing exterior doors, as the sweep will not cause the door to stick on carpet, and it makes the sweep invisible when the door is open.

 

Benefits of an Exterior Door Sweep

Exterior door sweep performance may vary depending on the type of sweep you choose—however, each is designed with the same benefits in mind. Let’s take a look at some of the core benefits of adding an exterior door sweep and how each type stacks up.

Energy Efficiency

Arguable the core function of a door sweep is to help minimize temperature exchange between the home and outside. For example, cold drafts in the winter can mean two things: a less comfortable home and higher heating bills. By preventing drafts from coming in, the home is kept warmer and there’s no wasted energy.

Exterior door sweeps that seal the door directly from the bottom are best for improving overall draft prevention and energy efficiency. Automatic door sweeps are a great choice for this. For door sweeps mounted on the exterior of the door, vinyl typically performs better than bristles.

Keeping Out Dirt, Dust, and Water

In addition to keeping out drafts, door sweeps also keep out dirt and other elements. By sweeping away dirt, dust, and water from the entryway, there’s less chance of these things making it inside the home.

All types of door sweeps can help with this, but bristle sweeps generally won’t perform as well for keeping moisture out.

Soundproofing

The best soundproof doors are only as good as their seal. Sealing the bottom of a door with a door sweep will also help to keep unwanted noise from entering the home. This could be anything from loud traffic, sirens, or nearby conversations.

The better the seal, the better the soundproofing, meaning under-the-door sweeps will perform best. However, all sweeps should improve the overall soundproof performance of the door.

Pest Control

Gaps at the bottom of an exterior door are like invitations to tiny, unwanted visitors. Door sweeps can help prevent insects, spiders, or other small pests from making it into the home. Vinyl options are generally better for this than bristle options.

 

Seal Your Entryway with Plastpro

Adding an exterior door sweep is a great way to seal your entryway, improving overall energy efficiency and blocking unwanted pests or sound from entering. The type of door sweep best for you will depend on your specific needs and budget.

That being said, if you’re looking to improve the performance of your entryway, the best place to start is with the door itself. Plastpro’s lineup of fiberglass exterior doors are made to stand against the elements and improve energy efficiency. With a high-density polyurethane core and durable hard shell, Plastpro doors are specifically designed to provide maximum durability, efficiency, and security. 

To upgrade your entryway with a new fiberglass door, visit our Where to Buy page to find a dealer near you.

 

When choosing an exterior door, there are many factors to consider. One of the most important is the amount of direct sunlight the door will be exposed to. Too much sunlight can cause the door to fade and warp over time, so it’s important to select a door that can handle these conditions. 

In this post, we will discuss what should be considered when choosing an exterior door for direct sunlight.

How to Choose the Best Exterior Door for Direct Sunlight

There are a variety of factors that will affect how an exterior door performs when exposed to direct sunlight. Let’s take a look at a few.

Door Material

Arguably the most important consideration when choosing the best exterior door for direct sunlight is the door material. Different door materials will respond differently to direct sunlight, so it is important to choose a material that can hold up.

For example, while wood doors may look great, they are particularly susceptible to sun damage. The heat and light can cause the wood to warp, crack, and fade over time. If your door will be exposed to a lot of direct sunlight, this can lead to more required maintenance—or needing to replace the door altogether.

Steel doors are a more durable option, and they are less likely to be damaged by sunlight than wood. However, they absorb heat and can become hot to the touch in direct sunlight. This can create a potentially harmful situation while using the door.

Fiberglass doors are the top choice for handling direct sunlight. Fiberglass doors are durable and far less likely to be damaged by the sun than wood, while being relatively cooler to the touch than steel. Plus, fiberglass doors also offer woodgrain options that allow homeowners to get the aesthetic benefits of wood with the functional benefits of fiberglass.

Door Glass

Glass can add beauty and style to a door—and of course, it provides the benefits of natural light to the home. That being said, for doors that receive a lot of direct sunlight, glass isn’t always the best choice. Specifically, full-glass front doors aren’t typically advised over a solid option such as fiberglass. This is because sunlight coming through can result in fading or damage to furniture or other belongings inside the home, due to the sun’s UV rays.

For those looking at exterior doors with glass, all is not lost when it comes to direct sunlight. Low-E glass features a specialized coating that helps block UV rays from entering through the glass. Therefore, in addition to its energy efficiency benefits, Low-E glass can provide protection for personal belongings in the home. If your door receives a lot of direct sunlight, it may be worth upgrading to Low-E door glass.

Door Color

Certain door colors will also affect an exterior door’s performance in handling direct sunlight. While dark colors may offer enhanced front door curb appeal, they also absorb heat. This can cause the door to be warmer to the touch and may result in fading or damage more quickly.

Choosing a lighter color for the door can help keep the door from absorbing too much sunlight, helping to keep it cooler and prevent the effects of the sun from happening as quickly. A white door will perform well, but lighter shades of color can work similarly—plus, the sunlight can help these colors pop.

Door Paint

Door color often goes hand-in-hand with door paint, and choosing the best exterior door paint to handle the sun is a must. If you’re opting to paint the door a new color, look for a paint color with a high light reflectance value (LRV). This is a number on a 0-100 scale that tells how much light the color will reflect—therefore, a higher number means less sunlight absorption and less risk for fading and damage.

Additionally, regardless of the color you choose, always look for paints labeled as fade- or UV-resistant. While no paint is completely fade-proof, these paint types are specially designed to resist the effects of direct sunlight, allowing the door to retain its color for longer. 

Fight the Sunlight with Plastpro Fiberglass Doors

By taking these factors into consideration, you can keep your exterior door in top condition even when exposed to direct sunlight. 

As mentioned, it all starts with the door itself. If you have a south-facing exterior door or don’t have additional protection such as an awning, it’s especially important to choose the right door material to fight against the extra direct sunlight. This is one area where fiberglass doors excel and perform better than other door materials.

Plastpro’s lineup of fiberglass exterior doors stands not only against sunlight, but also against other environmental factors like severe weather, ensuring your door performs against all the elements thrown its way. Each Plastpro door comes equipped with a proprietary, high-density polyurethane core that aids with durability, energy efficiency, and door security—helping to make your next fiberglass door your last.

To find the right fiberglass door for your home, visit our Where to Buy page to learn where to get a Plastpro door near you.