Category: Door Buying Guides

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.

When it’s time to update or upgrade your door knob, the options are seemingly endless. With a mix of style, security, and finish to consider, it can be daunting to choose just one door knob to meet all of your needs.

When it comes to exterior doors, door knobs are an essential piece of having a secure entryway, and they can also add style and curb appeal to your door. Let’s take a look at the three main types of door knobs and how to choose a style that suits your home.

 

Types of Door Knobs

While designs vary greatly, there are three common types of door knobs to choose from, each with its own style and functionality.

Traditional Door Knobs

While the classic, rounded door knob isn’t the most original choice, there is plenty of room for adding a personal touch. Characterized by its round or spherical shape, the classic door knob can be found on many exterior doors, though the style and finish can be customized to match front door color and style. Because the classic style is the most common, it’s easy to find a plethora of options at most hardware retailers. These door knobs also typically come equipped with a locking mechanism.

Door Lever

Door levers are a common alternative to the classic, rounded door knob. Like traditional knobs, door levels often feature a locking mechanism within the lever. In terms of functionality, door levers can be easier to operate than traditional door knobs, being that the lever works up-and-down, rather than needing to be turned. This is why door levers are commonly found on commercial buildings as they are ADA compliant.

In addition to functionality, door levers provide additional design flair that works well for a variety of homes. For example, ornate door levers can add a dash of flair to vintage home styles, while a modern, minimalist style home will benefit from an angular door lever design with clean, straight lines.

Handle Sets

Handle sets are a popular, versatile option that infuse the aesthetic of a door handle on the exterior and the functionality of a door knob or lever on the interior. Unlike traditional door knobs and door levers, this design typically requires a deadbolt lock as the door handle does not feature a locking mechanism.

Like door knobs and door levers, handle sets come in a variety of designs and styles. For example, an ornate handle set works great for Victorian homes, while sharp, angular designs are great picks for modern or rustic homes.

 

Choosing a Door Knob Finish

Once you’ve chosen the type of door knob that’s right for you, the next step is choosing the finish. Matching the finish with the type of door knob and overall home style can boost your front door curb appeal. Let’s take a look at some of the most common finishes and what they pair well with.

Nickel

A nickel finish will work for a wide range of both traditional and contemporary door styles. Specifically, satin nickel is a popular exterior door knob finish. It provides a textured look and works well with mid-century style homes and darker front door colors such as navy blue. Opting for a traditional door knob type will accent the classic, timeless feelings of these homes.

Brass

Brass is a classic door knob finish that provides a sense of vintage elegance, making it a great choice for Victorian or Colonial homes. A bright, polished brass finish provides a dash of glamor that complements these styles especially well.

For those looking for a more subtle shade, antique brass is another popular choice for exterior doors. As opposed to the boldness of polished brass, antique brass gives off a sense of warmth that pairs well with natural design features such as stone or wood.

Bronze

Bronze door knobs feature a dark brown tone that changes over time as the knob is handled. The dark shade lends itself to a feeling of luxury and sophistication—an aged bronze finish is a stunning fit for Craftsman-style homes and other traditional architectural styles. Its synergy with natural colors also makes it an excellent choice for Rustic or Mediterranean homes. In this case, a handle set can be a top choice.

Chrome

A chrome finish is a great way to infuse vintage, Art Deco charm into modern designs. This makes it an excellent choice for homes with a minimalist style. Pair a bright chrome finish and an angular door lever or handle set for a perfect blend of modern design.

Black

Black is a very versatile finish choice that can accent nearly any home style. Modern homes can benefit from a sleek, matte black door lever, while a traditional black door knob can be a stoic addition to the Colonial style.

A black finish also works great for rustic door knobs, especially set against a dark wood grain design. Plastpro’s Rustic Door Series features a deep, rich natural wood color and a variety of wrought iron accessories that pair perfectly with a black door knob—consider a handleset for a dash of elegance.

 

Putting it All Together

Door hardware and accessories can make a huge impact on the overall style and curb appeal of your home. Selecting the type of door knob that fits not only your personal preferences, but also your exterior door and home can be a great way to tie your entryway together.

In addition to the style and type of door knob you choose, be sure to take into consideration the best exterior door locks to get both style and security with your front door. And don’t forget the most important part: the door itself. Plastpro’s selection of fiberglass doors ensures that you can find the right style to match your home along with enhanced durability, energy efficiency, and door security.

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.

If you live in an area that experiences harsh, cold winters, the quality of your exterior door is one of the most important aspects of keeping your house warm. In addition to security purposes and being the face of your home, your front door also controls how much outside air is let in—especially during the winter. 

 

Exterior Door Factors for Cold Weather

 

Insulation/Energy Efficiency

When it comes to material, fiberglass doors are generally the most popular option when looking at the best exterior doors for cold weather. In addition to being durable and low-maintenance, the insulative properties of fiberglass make fiberglass doors a prime option for keeping the cold out—especially as this will help you avoid high energy bills during the winter months. 

While some homeowners opt for steel, the material’s high thermal conductivity makes it important to find a steel door with the best interior insulation. For homeowners who seek a traditional wood door, a solid wood door is the best option for keeping out cold air. It’s important to remember that wood is also the least durable of the three, has less insulation, and is more likely to warp over time. For those seeking the classic wood look, a fiberglass door that mimics the look of wood is generally the best choice when it comes to keeping your home warm in the winter.

Moisture Repellant

The best exterior doors for cold weather are not just insulated well, but moisture repellent and weather resistant. Chances are, if you live in a cold climate, you’re dealing with snow, ice, and wind in the winter. These factors can slowly damage your exterior door. 

Fiberglass doors are naturally more weather-proof than wood or steel. While steel will not crack from cold weather, it is more susceptible to dents and chipping and requires quite a bit of upkeep. Wood is more sensitive to a moisture imbalance, so during the cold months especially, wood doors are prone to warping or even cracking. 

Glazing

Living in a cold climate doesn’t mean you can’t have window panes on your exterior door; it simply means you have to choose the best type of glass panes for your door. High quality glass, Low-E coatings, and double/triple-paned glass are usually the best for reducing heat loss. Low-E glass in particular means less heat is lost through the panes, but it also allows some of the sun’s energy to come through and heat your home. 

 

Exterior Doors From Plastpro

Plastpro’s fiberglass doors are a great option for customers who live in a colder climate and deal with harsh winters. Our selection of fiberglass doors feature HydroShield Technology, which fully encases and protects the polyurethane foam core, a dense core that offers superior insulation. 

Check out Plastpro’s Where to Buy page to find a dealer near you today.

As the point of entry in a home, a secure front door is one of the most important ways to keep your household safe. While a fiberglass door is a great foundation when ensuring safety in your home, a simple way to ramp up your home security is through a quality exterior door lock. From features such as keyless entry to touchscreen control pads, a great lock can offer superior security and peace of mind when leaving the house. 

What to consider when choosing a lock

There are a variety of considerations when you’re choosing a lock. From design, to lock grade, to special features, it all comes down to what works best for your home’s security. Some of today’s most advanced locks employ access logs, keypads, alarms, strike plates, and even voice or fingerprint recognition. 

Lock Type

Just as there are different door designs, there are different designs of locks to keep your home safe. It might sound complex, but choosing a type of lock is surprisingly simple if you know what you want in terms of home security. Let’s take a look at a few types of locks.

Single cylinder locks

A single cylinder lock is one of the most common locks used to secure your home. This type of lock operates from the inside by turning a thumb knob and from the outside with a key. This makes it easy to quickly secure your home from the inside.

Double cylinder locks

Double cylinder locks start out similar to its single cylinder relative, but its similarities end at opening from the outside with a key. Instead, these locks are keyed on both sides, meaning they only open with a key on the exterior and the interior. These are a great option for doors with glass panes, as anyone attempting to break in would be unable to reach inside and unlock the deadbolt. 

Smart locks

With today’s technological advances, it’s no surprise this has extended to home security. Smart locks connect to your home’s Wi-Fi, which then sends information to your smartphone. Some are even operated by voice control or with fingerprint recognition. If you’re wondering how secure these locks are, don’t worry—these locks are often used with a deadbolt for the best possible front door security.

Vertical locks

Vertical locks are the most common secondary locks sold in the US. These locks feature a vertical bolt which extends through a set of rings, securing your door. While they are found on both commercial and residential doors, these types of locks are often found in hotel doors and apartment complexes. 

Quality

Locks are issued ratings by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), which measures each lock’s strength and durability. The ANSI grade is a factor that decides how secure your lock is. 

Grade 1

Grade 1 is the most secure type of lock, with the ability to withstand 10 strikes of 75 lbs of force. Grade 1 has been considered for a long time to be a heavy-duty, industrial lock used mostly within industrial and commercial settings, but it’s become more common to find them within residential homes. If you’re looking for a Grade 1 lock, it’s important to make sure it’s a qualified ANSI Grade 1, and not a lock with Grade 1 “features”.

Grade 2

Grade 2 locks are the residential standard, with the ability to withstand 5 strikes of 75 pounds of force. While it may sound necessary to go with a Grade 1 lock for your home, many residential homes employ Grade 2 locks, as they’re designed to prevent most forced entry attempts. As Grade 2 locks are sometimes even used for light commercial use, they’re a great choice for keeping your house safe.

Grade 3

Grade 3 is considered the lowest quality acceptable according to ANSI standards, and it can generally withstand 2 strikes of 75 pounds of force. Grade 3 locks are often used in basic residential settings; while it will still offer basic security, it’s unlikely to deter a persistent intruder.

Features

For even more ease of use and access and an even greater sense of security, you can pick up locks with a variety of special features. 

Reinforced strike plate

A strike plate is the metal plate that attaches to the inside of the door frame. As one of the most important aspects of your home security, some homeowners opt for reinforced plates, rather than inexpensive ones that might give or bend easily in an attempted break-in.

Access logs

Another great feature for peace of mind when it comes to home security are access logs. This gives homeowners the option to install smart door locks which provide information on who entered your house and when. 

Alarm system

If you’re serious about security, you might opt for a smart lock with a built-in alarm system. An alarm system is one of the best ways to deter intruders, and is especially useful on a lock as the entry door is often the first point of entry for an intruder. 

Rekeying

For homeowners who struggle to remember where they’ve misplaced their keys, rekeying is a great feature as it eliminates the need to replace your lock each time you lose a key and prevents entry with old keys. 

Universal handling

If your interest in features is more focused on accessibility and ease of access, universal handling gives homeowners the ability to install locks that are universal for both right-handed and left-handed doors.

Improve your home security with Plastpro

While choosing a lock can be a big decision, it’s important to remember that your lock is only as good as your exterior door is. For the most secure home possible, you might consider replacing your door if it’s getting a little old, or even switching out a traditional wood door for a superior fiberglass door. 

Plastpro offers a variety of designs and options, allowing any homeowner to get the look they want while enhancing durability and door security. With a durable outer shell and high-density, polyurethane foam core, our doors are built to stand up to anything—from severe weather to intruders. Where locks are concerned, Plastpro’s fiberglass doors feature a full-length lockblock, which provides additional holding strength for any lock of your choosing.

Why is a full-length lockblock so key? Traditionally a fiberglass door’s lockblock is only built to surround the immediate 18- 20” vicinity of the lock, and the rest of the space above and below is filled in with foam. However, our lumber runs the full vertical length of the door, providing additional rigidity and support that keeps the door from being kicked in by an intruder or blown in by severe weather. Additionally, the LVL material will absorb bendable stress without snapping, unlike a wood material.

To find a dealer near you, check out Plastpro’s Where to Buy page today.

If you’ve been thinking about placing your house on the market, you might be wondering what renovations and repairs you can work on to increase your home’s market value. If your entryway is looking a bit outdated or worse for the wear, a great place to consider starting is with your front door. In fact, curb appeal can significantly increase home value; a new front door can add up to $24,000 to a house’s perceived value, making it a great investment. 

 

How Front Doors Increase Home Value

A new front door is one of the best improvements you can make, as it offers a potential return on investment of around 75%. A return on investment, or ROI, means you’ll get back about 75% of what you spent on your new entry door in the form of your home’s increased value. This is subject to how much the door costs and how much it improves the appearance of your home in the eyes of buyers.

Let’s take a look at four ways to increase home value with front doors. It should be noted that these are general suggestions—for more specific assistance, be sure to check with your local real estate professionals for more information.

Paint your front door

If you’re looking for a low-cost, simple way to quickly increase your house’s value, consider adding a fresh coat of paint to your front door. While adding a new coat of your door’s current color will do the job of freshening up your entryway, you might want to consider switching the color completely. 

According to Zillow, a black or charcoal front door can add $6,271 to the resale value of a home, making it an excellent investment when preparing your home for the market. Be sure to check with your door manufacturer for warranty and maintenance instructions before painting, to be sure you use the correct type of paint and aren’t taking any steps that would compromise the integrity of the door. For example, Plastpro recommends steering away from these darker paint colors if your door receives a lot of direct sunlight or doesn’t have an overhang—darker colors can speed up the rate of UV damage to the door.

Choose a door with mass appeal

This might go without saying, but it’s an important reminder—if the sole purpose of your investment is to increase home value with the intent to sell, you’ll want to focus on a style that is widely appealing. 

Craftsman and modern style doors are currently quite popular, while the timeless, traditional look of a classic wood grain is always a strong choice. If you’re unsure of how each style differs, check out Plastpro’s Craftsman Series and Modern Series to see what might best complement your home’s architectural style, as well as Plastpro’s Oak Grain Series and Mahogany Series if you’re more interested in the classic, traditional style.

Attract smart buyers

Outside of the obvious benefit of curb appeal, installing a new front door can help put you ahead of the competition on the market. Smart buyers will often assess the condition of different aspects of a home to note what might need updating or replacing in the near future. Simply having a brand new front door can give you a selling point other homes might not have. 

Choose a quality front door

While you might think you don’t need to spend much on a front door for the house you’re planning on selling, be careful not to underspend. Choosing the least expensive door on the market can send a similar message to buyers that a neglected front door can, especially if they know what to look for. If you choose a front door that’s drafty, flimsy, or tacky, it is unlikely to increase the value of your home much, if at all. 

Keep in mind the average ROI for a new front door—you should get the majority of your investment back through your home’s increased value. The best value for your entryway is generally a fiberglass door, especially if you want to avoid as much upkeep as possible between updating and selling. 

Fiberglass can offer the classic look of wood grains, but with less required maintenance to keep it looking new. Fiberglass is also superior in terms of soundproofing, insulation, and security, offering three additional selling points for prospective buyers.

 

Plastpro’s selection of fiberglass doors

If you’ve settled on replacing your front door to increase home value, Plastpro offers a variety of options to help you maximize ROI and boost the market value of your home. Plastpro’s HydroShield Technology encases the door with weatherproof material on all 6 sides and prevents warping, delamination, corrosion, rotting, and the buildup of mold and mildew that wood and steel doors are prone to. Combining this exterior with a high-density, polyurethane foam core makes our fiberglass doors secure, durable, and energy efficient. This level of performance is available in all our door series, ensuring you can get the style you want.

Try out Plastpro’s Doorability tool to see a new entry door or new door color on your house to find the best fit for your home’s style, or check out our Where to Buy page to find a dealer near you.

If you’re considering an entry door with glass, you might be weighing your options with Low-E glass vs. normal glass. The type of glass you choose can be critical when it comes to factors such as energy efficiency, and depending on where you live, it can be worth it to invest in Low-E glass. Let’s take a look at how Low-E glass is rated and what benefits it can provide vs. normal glass.

 

What is Low-E glass?

Low-E stands for “Low-Emissivity”, emissivity meaning the amount of radiation emitted or absorbed. When looking at Low-E glass vs. normal glass, the main difference is that Low-E glass has a thin, transparent coating applied to the inside of the interior side of the glass, reflecting the interior temperatures back inside to reduce energy loss through the glass and maintain indoor temperatures.

Therefore, Low-E glass will keep your home’s temperature cooler or warmer, depending on your climate and season. This coating is so thin that it will not affect the amount of natural light the glass lets indoors—but note that it does have a light, blue-green tint compared to clear glass. 

As clear, normal glass does not have this specialized coating, temperature exchange from inside to outside occurs, which can make it difficult to regulate your home’s temperature. 

 

Benefits of Low-E glass vs. normal glass

The special coating of Low-E glass is designed with energy efficiency in mind, but it provides a variety of additional benefits as well.

Energy-efficient

An estimated 70% of energy loss is through windows and doors. Low-E glass will reduce this loss and save homeowners money in the long run on heating and cooling bills by helping to maintain internal temperatures.

Insulated with Argon gas

The majority of Low-E glass utilizes Argon gas between the glass panes. This helps to preserve the window’s coating, but it also improves energy efficiency, as Argon gas has a higher density than plain air, which helps to keep internal temperatures from escaping.

Protects the inside of your home

As Low-E glass prevents certain light from entering your home, it can also prevent damage to your household belongings. UV light can cause damage to the inside of your home over time. By using Low-E glass, you can protect your furniture, walls, carpeting, and even photos from fading and light damage. 

Reduce condensation

Condensation that can build up between pieces of front door glass can lead to problems such as foggy glass, mold, or mildew. This happens most notably in winter, when the inside temperature is much higher than the surface temperature of the glass. Low-E glass actually minimizes—and can even eliminate—unwanted condensation, as the protective coating will keep the surface temperature of the glass warmer in the winter. 

Durable protection

While there are methods to add insulation to clear glass, Low-E coating is applied to the inside of the glass. Therefore, even though it’s a thin, transparent coating, it can’t be scratched or wiped away. 

 

Low-E Glass Measurement and Ratings

Not all Low-E glass is the same, and it can come in many forms, with different types of ratings and coatings for high, moderate, or low solar heat gain in cold, temperate, or hot climates. Different glass and coatings will provide a different level of performance, and it’s important to understand your options. A few things you should keep in mind:

U-Factor

The U-Factor is the rate at which the glass conducts non-solar heat flow—or, how well the product keeps heat trapped inside. These ratings will typically fall between .25 and 1.25. Generally, the lower the rating is, the better the insulation.

Solar Heat Gain Coefficient

The Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) is the amount of solar radiation that passes through a product. This rating will typically be measured between 0 and 1. The desirable coefficient depends on where you live- in warmer climates a lower solar heat gain coefficient will help keep the indoors cool, but in cooler climates a higher solar heat gain coefficient can help to keep the home warm.

Visible transmittance

Visible transmittance is how transparent the glass is. This is typically measured between 0 and 1. To allow as much natural light as possible to come through, you might look for glass with a rating closer to 1.

Low E Glass Rating

Low-E glass comes in a series of ratings depending on the amount of heat that is reflected back. Depending on the manufacturer, ratings will appear differently, but a higher number indicates a higher percentage of solar rays that are blocked. This will subsequently affect the U-Factor and SHGC, meaning that different ratings will provide various levels of energy performance.

The most commonly seen ratings are Low E 2 and Low E 3. Which rating to go with will depend on a variety of factors, including your location and budget. Generally, Low E 3 is considered a strong all-around rating, as it provides enhanced performance in hot and cold weather.

 

Low-E glass vs. normal glass

With all of this in mind, it’s clear that Low-E glass provides additional benefits compared to normal, clear glass. But is it right for you? When making your decision, you will want to determine the most important factors for your situation, including:

Cost

The benefits of Low-E glass will come with increased cost. Consider which option fits best into your budget. However, it should be noted that long-term cost—as it relates to future heating and cooling bills—should also be factored in, as Low-E glass will provide savings over time.

Energy efficiency

If your main concern is energy efficiency, then Low-E glass is a clear winner. As covered, the specialized design will keep your home more comfortable and keep your energy bills lower.

Appearance

While Low-E glass doesn’t block natural light, it does have a noticeable tint compared to clear glass. Some homeowners may opt for clear glass to avoid the blue-green hue.

 

Plastpro’s selection of Low-E door glass

Plastpro’s offers a selection of doors with Low-E glass—check out our Doorlite collection to see our wide range of glass options. If you are looking to maximize both natural light and efficiency, our Nova Door Series features Low-E glass options, including LoE 366. These doors are made with direct glazed glass, which creates a seamless blend between the glass and the door. The beauty and boosted natural light from the Nova Series, coupled with the energy efficiency benefits of the Low-E coating, make this an excellent front door option wherever you are. 

To explore Plastpro’s selection of fiberglass doors and Low-E glass options, check out our Where to Buy page to find a dealer near you.

There are a variety of materials to consider when selecting an entry door, and each type differs when it comes to appearance, cost, sustainability, and more. For years, wood entry doors were really the only choice, but with innovations in the past 30 years, steel and fiberglass entry doors have become real contenders. Choosing between these three options is an important decision with long-term consequences for preventing waste and avoiding expensive replacements. Read on to see how these materials compare and which have the best potential to stand the test of time.

1. Appearance

Wood entry doors are known for being visually appealing, traditional, and easily customizable. Their rich, natural color often makes them an attractive buy. Additionally, they are available in several configurations and sizes- they are more easily customized in width and height than steel and fiberglass doors.

Steel doors, on the other hand, are widely considered the least adaptable. Most steel doors feature a smooth surface and less available configurations, resulting in minimal curb appeal compared to wood and fiberglass.

Fiberglass doors offer the best of both worlds and act as a good compromise between wood and steel. These doors have evolved to mimic the look of wood graining, and come in various styles that can be stained or painted depending on the skin to suit homeowner preference.

2. Cost and Durability

Price is a major factor in deciding which option to invest in. Both the upfront cost of the material and the cost-per-use of the door should be considered.

Wood doors typically start at a higher price point than steel or fiberglass, but the pricing will vary depending on the type of wood and slab sizes. However, wood doors are highly susceptible to weather and are privy to scratches, dents, warping, and moisture damage which will likely necessitate a full, costly replacement.

Basic steel doors are the lowest initial cost, but also the most susceptible to damage in the long-term- the material is very prone to denting and rusting. What’s particularly bothersome about steel entry doors is how easily they can be damaged during installation and construction; they don’t stand up well to the abuse generated on jobsites. And this material is the hardest to repair and most likely to require a full door replacement.

Fiberglass entry doors typically offer a mid-price point, although more elaborate configurations will increase the cost. But what fiberglass doors cost upfront, they make up for with their durability.

With a composite exterior that repels water and resists warping, rotting, and cosmetic damage, fiberglass doors should last decades with minimal maintenance. This makes them an excellent investment and a natural choice for consumers seeking sustainable building materials. The longer lifecycle of the material reduces waste and the resources needed for manufacturing.

3. Energy Efficiency

Energy efficient exterior doors help reduce energy usage and costs in the home, so this is another important factor to consider when determining the pros and cons of wood, fiberglass, and steel entry doors.

Wood doors have relatively poor insulation and are the least energy efficient option. Natural wood is more likely to disperse heat from the indoors to the outside and vice versa than steel or fiberglass.

Steel doors are more energy efficient than wood, and can also outperform fiberglass when made properly and filled with high-density, polyurethane foam. However, steel is the strongest temperature conductor, meaning that it is most likely to be affected by the weather. The door can be extremely cold in the winter as well as burning hot in the summer— and this will extend indoors if not built properly.

However, even though some steel doors will outperform fiberglass in regards to U-Factor and R-Value, fiberglass doors are still top-rated when it comes to energy efficiency. Like steel doors, when their foam cores are tightly packed, they provide strong insulation and help maintain a consistent temperature, which ultimately will lower energy usage in any season.

In conclusion, fiberglass doors may be worth the investment due to the combination of their beauty, design, and function, especially when considering the savings on energy and replacement costs. This might sound too good to be true, and with some brands that is certainly the case. Fiberglass doors built with exposed wood components will fail if not properly cared for. So, when choosing a fiberglass door, look for brands, like Plastpro, that sell fiberglass doors with a completely composite exterior and a complementary composite door frame, to make sure you can fully experience the benefits of an all-composite entry unit for your project.

 

The anatomy of a door isn’t always given much thought, with the focus often being on the material, curb appeal, and other more commonly discussed factors. However, knowing the exact anatomy of a door and door unit is helpful for front door home improvement projects, replacing any aspect of your entryway, and simplifying the buying process.

Key components in the anatomy of a door unit

There are three main aspects of a door’s anatomy: the door slab itself, the components that make a door unit, and add-ons. Let’s look at each component in detail.

The Door

Door slab

The slab is the main component of the door unit. This is usually made of a fiberglass, steel, or wood exterior and a core. For more on what goes into the core of the slab, we suggest referring to Plastpro’s Door Cores Comparison Guide.

Stiles

Stiles are the vertical components of the door slab. Stiles, alongside rails, often give the illusion of a single carved piece. Stiles are important—particularly their width—in the anatomy of a door as the door’s locks will usually be mounted near the stiles, and sometimes stiles are not wide enough for certain locking mechanisms. Note that the stile where the lock is located is often referred to as the lock stile, and the stile on the opposite side is called the hinge stile. Stiles—and rails—play an integral role in protecting the interior of the door from weather-related damage—especially water.

Rails

Rails are the horizontal component of the door slab, the top and bottom being differentiated as the “top rail” and the “bottom rail.” Rails play an important part in any hardware mounted close to them, as you’ll often have to take their measurements to ensure any connecting hardware (such as a kick plate) will fit properly.

It should be noted that what are considered the stiles and rails differ based on the type of door material used. For example, a flush wood door will not have stiles and rails. But for a paneled wood door, the interior area between the panels is also referred to as the stiles and rails. For doors that are pressed by a mold, such as steel or fiberglass, stiles and rails can also refer to the top and bottom, left and right encasing component pieces of the door.

Lock block 

The lock block is the solid area on the interior of the door slab that is placed for a lock to be attached. The lock block is an important security consideration, as a lock will only function as well as the lock block it is attached to. Generally, the lock block will cover the 18-20” vicinity around the lock. However, Plastpro’s fiberglass doors feature a lock block that runs the length of the door to provide additional rigidity and support for the door, extra holding strength for the lock, and to accomodate any configuration of lock with no space constraints.

 

Door Unit

Sill

The sill sits underneath the door and connects to the frame on both sides of the door, set at an angle slanted down from the door to prevent unwanted dirt, debris, or bugs from making their way through any crevices. These are usually made of aluminum. The sill can also be referred to as the threshold.

Jamb/Frame

The jamb, or door frame, is actually composed of three pieces that frame the door. The left and right vertical pieces are referred to as side jambs, and the horizontal piece that sits at the top is called the head jamb. Depending on the homeowner’s preference, the jamb can be made of veneered wood, solid wood, or composite material. The material can influence the strength of the frame, which ultimately impacts security. Choosing a strong, durable material, such as a composite door frame, can improve front door security.

Moulding 

Moulding, also known as trim or casing, is installed around the frame. While moulding does work to cover gaps in the frame, it also provides added beauty and personalization to the entryway. Moulding is available in a variety of styles to increase your front door curb appeal or accent your architectural style. In addition to aesthetic value, moulding can also offer protection to the entryway by preventing moisture infiltration into the door unit.

 

Door Add-Ons

Door Handle/Knob

The door handle is used to open and close the door. Door handles come in a variety of styles and finishes to complement your door and home. Many door handles also feature key cylinders and lock buttons used to lock and unlock the door.

Locking mechanism

A locking mechanism is what gives your exterior door its main point of security. The three main mechanisms used are a cylindrical lock, a mortise lock, and a multi-point lock. The cylindrical lock, one of the most common choices, is installed through a hole in the door slab. The mortise lock, which offers added security, is inserted into a hole cut into the side of the door. The multi-point lock, which has three points of locking security rather than one, is installed onto the side of the door with multiple points of locking.

Hinges

Hinges are pieces of metal hardware that start off separate from the door, but are attached to the door and the frame for a smooth and secure fit and swing. How you install the hinges is very important, as hinges are crucial to the tightness, and therefore, sealing of a door when it’s shut. Generally, three or four hinges are used for an exterior door.

Door sweep

The door sweep is usually connected to the underside of the door, which works with the weatherstripping to create the seal between the bottom of the door and the sill.

Weatherstrips

Weatherstrips are an external material (often foam, felt, rubber, or metal) that are attached to the outside of a door’s frame. This ensures that when the door is shut, it creates a seal that keeps out cold or hot air, bugs, and moisture. Weatherstrips are usually installed alongside the door sweep.

Deadbolt lock

The deadbolt lock, usually installed above the handle and its locking mechanism, offers extra front door security through a bolt that extends from the door into the frame by turning the key or its lock.

While there may be other components of doors depending on the intricacy of the door’s architectural style, which may call for the use of accessories, or the need to install specialty items like ADA hardware, these are the main components that make up the anatomy of a door. As exterior doors are meant to be secure and weather resistant, the quality of each separate component is crucial to the integrity of your door, and having a door that will stand the test of time.

 

The Plastpro difference

Plastpro takes pride in offering fiberglass doors that prioritize durability, security, and sustainability—aspects that are ingrained in each individual component of the door and door unit. From our long-lasting and durable fiberglass door slab, high-density polyurethane foam core, and innovative composite PF door frames, each element combines to form an entryway that is secure, weatherproof, energy efficient, and long-lasting—not to mention one that looks great too. 

Thanks to our composite stiles, rails, and door frames, Plastpro is the only fiberglass door manufacturer in the U.S. that offers door units with no exposed wood, which lends our doors improved performance and durability. Where hardware is concerned, our full-length lock block allows for any lock of your choice for additional door security, and our selection of door accessories can add flair and create a door that is uniquely yours.

To find out more about how Plastpro can assist you with all your door needs, view our website, and find a dealer to purchase a door near you.