Fiberglass, aluminum, wood, vinyl–these varieties in which your sliding glass doors can be made from. Each has different strengths and weaknesses that should be taken into consideration when you are looking to install a new or replace an old one.
ALUMINUM DOORS: Aluminum doors are sturdy, don’t require constant upkeep, and often moderately priced. While lightweight, they are also energy efficient. However, something to consider is that aluminum doors are designed to resist the effects of corrosion, denting, scratches, etc., their light weight will make them more susceptible to these effects than other materials on this list.
VINYL DOORS: Like their aluminum counterparts, vinyl doors are a low-maintenance and durable option for your sliding door needs. Additionally, it is often the lowest cost option when compared to other materials on this list. For the environmentally conscious, vinyl doors are recyclable–great to know if/when it comes time to replace it. Now, like aluminum, while durable, it is not as strong as other options on this list, which can lead to breakage and compromise your security if used as an exterior door.(actually, these doors can be quite expensive here in the present). Keep in mind though, as a natural product, wood doors require more upkeep than their other counterparts on this list. Additionally, keep in mind where you want to place the door; patio or other exterior wood doors are prone to moisture warping and fading from sunlight exposure.
WOOD DOORS: These doors can add a touch of elegance to your space. Why? Maybe it’s that connection with nature by incorporating the natural world into our home. Or, you’re aware of the increasing likelihood of living in a Blade Runner world and know that owning even the smallest natural object can be a sign of considerable wealth.
FIBERGLASS DOORS: Now if you want to mimic the look of the wood door, but aren’t willing to take on as much work to maintain it, then fiberglass doors are the way to go. These doors are durable in almost any climate and are all but guaranteed to last. They are resilient products designed to protect you from the elements. Additionally, they are great at improving the energy efficiency of your home as they reduce the transfer of heat between the interior and exterior. If you are looking to install a fiberglass door, keep in mind that it is extremely rare for them to be custom fitted. If you are looking to incorporate a fiberglass door, please consult with a professional installer for your best options.
