Upgrading Your Exterior Doors: Why Custom Steel and Fiberglass from Provia Outshine Wood

James Creed
Feb 2
3 min read

Replacing your exterior doors can transform the look and feel of your home while improving security and energy efficiency. When deciding on new doors, many homeowners face the choice between traditional wood and modern materials like steel and fiberglass. Custom steel and fiberglass doors from Provia offer distinct advantages over wood, making them a smart investment for those seeking durability, style, and long-term value.

Eye-level view of a custom steel front door with decorative glass panels — Custom steel front door with decorative glass panels

Why Consider Upgrading Your Exterior Doors?

Exterior doors are the first thing guests notice and the main barrier between your home and the outside world. Over time, wood doors can warp, crack, or rot due to weather exposure. This not only affects curb appeal but also compromises security and insulation. Upgrading to steel or fiberglass doors addresses these issues while offering additional benefits.

Many homeowners hesitate to replace wood doors because of the upfront cost or attachment to the classic look. However, custom steel and fiberglass doors from Provia combine aesthetic appeal with practical advantages that often outweigh the initial investment.

Benefits of Steel Doors

Steel doors are known for their strength and security. They resist dents, scratches, and forced entry better than wood. Here are some key benefits:

Durability: Steel doors withstand harsh weather, including heavy rain, snow, and extreme heat, without warping or cracking.
Security: The solid steel core and reinforced frames provide superior protection against break-ins.
Low Maintenance: Unlike wood, steel does not require regular sanding, staining, or painting. A simple wash keeps it looking new.
Energy Efficiency: Many steel doors come with foam insulation cores that reduce heat loss, lowering energy bills.
Customizable Designs: Provia offers steel doors with various finishes, colors, and glass options to match your home’s style.

For example, a homeowner in a windy coastal area replaced their aging wood door with a Provia steel door and noticed a significant drop in drafts and noise from outside.

Advantages of Fiberglass Doors

Fiberglass doors offer a balance between the natural look of wood and the durability of steel. They are crafted to mimic wood grain textures but resist the common problems of wood doors.

Weather Resistance: Fiberglass does not absorb moisture, so it won’t swell, crack, or rot.
Longevity: These doors maintain their appearance for decades without fading or peeling.
Energy Savings: Like steel doors, fiberglass doors often include insulated cores that improve thermal performance.
Versatility: Provia’s fiberglass doors come in many styles, from traditional to modern, with customizable glass inserts.
Low Upkeep: They require minimal maintenance, just occasional cleaning.

A family in a humid climate chose a Provia fiberglass door to avoid the constant repairs their previous wood door demanded. After five years, the door still looks fresh and performs well.

Close-up view of a fiberglass door with wood grain texture and decorative glass — Fiberglass door with wood grain texture and decorative glass

Why Choose Provia Entry Doors?

Provia stands out in the door industry for quality craftsmanship and customization options. Their entry doors combine the best features of steel and fiberglass with attention to detail.

Wide Selection: Provia offers hundreds of door styles, colors, and glass designs, allowing homeowners to create a unique entrance.
Superior Materials: Their doors use premium steel and fiberglass composites that resist dents, corrosion, and weather damage.
Energy Efficiency: Many Provia doors meet or exceed ENERGY STAR standards, helping reduce heating and cooling costs.
Warranty: Provia backs their doors with strong warranties covering materials and finishes.
Professional Support: Provia dealers provide expert guidance from selection to installation, ensuring a perfect fit.

Homeowners who chose Provia often highlight the combination of beauty and performance. One customer shared how their Provia steel door not only enhanced their home’s curb appeal but also improved insulation, making their living space more comfortable year-round.

Comparing Costs and Value

While wood doors often have a lower initial price, steel and fiberglass doors from Provia deliver better value over time. Consider these factors:

Maintenance Costs: Wood doors require regular upkeep such as painting or sealing, which adds to long-term expenses.
Energy Savings: Insulated steel and fiberglass doors reduce heating and cooling bills, offsetting higher upfront costs.
Longevity: Provia doors can last 20 years or more without major repairs, unlike wood doors that may need replacement sooner.
Resale Value: Quality exterior doors improve home value and appeal to buyers.

For example, a homeowner who installed a Provia fiberglass door calculated that the energy savings and reduced maintenance over 15 years would save them hundreds of dollars compared to a wood door.

High angle view of a modern home entrance with a Provia steel door and sidelights — Modern home entrance with Provia steel door and sidelights

Making the Right Choice for Your Home

Choosing between wood, steel, and fiberglass depends on your priorities. If you want classic beauty and don’t mind upkeep, wood may suit your taste. But if you want a door that combines style, strength, and energy efficiency, custom steel or fiberglass doors from Provia are excellent options.