What Is The Best Material For Exterior Doors?

The best material for exterior doors isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. It depends on what you need most – durability, weather resistance, or low maintenance. At Online Door Store, we’ve seen how the right choice can make a big difference in a home’s comfort, security, and energy bills.

 

Let’s dive into the top materials we offer: GRP, hardwood, Tricoya, and softwood. Each has its own strengths, and we’ll help you figure out which one suits your home best.

 

Key Takeaways

 

• GRP and Tricoya doors offer excellent weather resistance, durability, and low maintenance, making them ideal for harsh climates.
• Hardwood doors provide a high-end, traditional aesthetic with strong durability but require regular upkeep, especially in wet conditions.
• Softwood doors are affordable and versatile but need more maintenance and are less durable than other materials, making them better for budget-conscious buyers.
• The best exterior door material depends on your needs, balancing climate, aesthetic preferences, maintenance requirements, and budget.

 

Comparison of External Door Materials

 

Material	Durability	Maintenance	Weather Resistance	Cost	Best For
GRP	Very High	Low	Excellent	Higher than hardwood and softwood	Coastal/rainy areas, low maintenance seekers
Hardwood	High	Moderate (requires regular treatment)	Good	High	High-traffic areas, premium traditional homes
Softwood	Moderate	Moderate (requires regular care)	Moderate	Lower than hardwood	Budget-conscious buyers, custom designs
Tricoya	Very High	Low	Excellent	Higher than GRP, hardwood and softwood	Homes in extreme climates or wet regions

 

GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) Doors

 

What Is GRP?

 

GRP stands for Glass Reinforced Plastic and it’s a type of fibreglass. It’s a tough material made by combining plastic with small glass fibres. This mix creates a door that’s strong but not too heavy. The glass fibres give the plastic extra strength, while the plastic helps protect against moisture and weathering. The result is a durable material that’s well-suited for exterior doors.

 

Benefits of GRP Doors

 

• Weather Resistant: GRP doors handle rough weather well. They don’t mind rain, wind, or sun, which makes them great for homes near the sea or in very rainy areas.
• Low Maintenance: You won’t need to do much to keep a GRP door looking good. Unlike wood, it won’t bend or crack, so you don’t have to repaint it often.
• Long-Lasting: These doors can handle daily use and bad weather without wearing down quickly. They resist dents and scratches better than many other materials. Based on the study in the World Applied Sciences Journal, GRP also deals well with different temperatures.
• Energy Efficient: Many GRP doors are good at keeping heat in. This means they can help keep your home warm in winter and cool in summer, which might lower your heating and cooling costs.

 

Drawbacks of GRP Doors

 

GRP doors can cost more upfront than some wooden doors. This higher initial price might put off buyers on a tight budget. Also, while they come in many finishes, they don’t have the natural, warm look of real wood. Some homeowners might find that GRP lacks the character or warmth they’re looking for in a front door.

 

Best Uses for GRP Doors

 

We often suggest GRP doors for homes in places with harsh weather, especially near the coast. They’re also good if you want a door that doesn’t need much care.

 

In our collection, you’ll find options like the GRP Mexicano White External Door, which has a clean, modern look. If you want some glass in your door to let in light, you might like the GRP Cottage White External Glazed Door 1L or GRP Malton Black External Glazed Door 2L.

 

Hardwood External Doors

 

What Is Hardwood?

 

Hardwood comes from broad-leaved trees that grow more slowly, resulting in dense, durable timber. At the Online Door Store, our hardwood doors are made from strong, long-lasting wood types. Hardwood is heavier than softwood and typically more resistant to wear and tear.

 

Benefits of Hardwood Doors

 

• Durability: Hardwood doors can withstand a lot of use without showing signs of wear. They’re great for main entrances that see frequent traffic.
• Security: The density and weight of hardwood make these doors excellent for security. They’re harder to break through than lighter materials.
• Aesthetics: Hardwood doors offer a luxurious, high-end look. The natural grain of the wood can add character and warmth to your home’s exterior.

 

Drawbacks of Hardwood Doors

 

Hardwood doors usually cost more than softwood options, but at the same time, they’re more affordable than GRP and Tricoya doors. While they last longer than softwood doors, the upfront price can be a hurdle for some buyers. They also require more upkeep, especially in wet climates. After all, even the 2019 study from the Journal of Wood Science confirms that wood can expand or shrink in different humidity conditions. You’ll need to treat the wood regularly with paint or varnish to protect it from moisture and prevent warping or rotting. This ongoing maintenance adds to the long-term cost of owning a hardwood door.

 

Best Uses for Hardwood Doors

 

Hardwood doors are ideal for traditional homes or properties where owners want a classic, high-end look. They’re popular for luxury homes and historical renovations. In our range, you’ll find options like the Hardwood Carolina 6-Panel Dowelled Unglazed External Door, which offers a timeless design. For those wanting a mix of wood and glass, the Hardwood Westminster 1L Glazed External Door could be a great choice.

 

Softwood External Doors

 

What Is Softwood?

 

Despite its name, softwood isn’t necessarily soft. It comes from coniferous trees, which grow faster than hardwood trees. This quicker growth results in a less dense wood that’s easier to work with. Common softwoods used for doors include pine and cedar. At Online Door Store, we offer softwood options like redwood doors, which balance affordability with decent durability.

 

Benefits of Softwood Doors

 

• Affordability: Softwood doors are generally cheaper than hardwood or GRP options. This makes them popular for budget-conscious homeowners or large-scale projects.
• Eco-Friendly: Softwood trees grow quickly, making them a more sustainable choice. Many of our softwood doors are certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), ensuring they come from responsibly managed forests.
• Versatility: Softwood is easy to cut, shape, and finish. This allows for a wide range of designs and styles to suit different home aesthetics.
• Light Weight: Softwood doors are lighter than hardwood, making them easier to install and putting less strain on hinges.

 

Drawbacks of Softwood Doors

 

Softwood doors aren’t as tough as hardwood or GRP. They can dent or scratch more easily, which might be a problem in high-traffic areas. They’re also more susceptible to changes in weather. In the UK’s often damp climate, softwood doors can swell, shrink, or warp if not properly treated and maintained. This means you’ll need to repaint or re-varnish them more often than hardwood doors to keep them in good condition.

 

Best Uses for Softwood Doors

 

Softwood doors work well for those on a tighter budget who still want a traditional wood look. They’re good for homes in milder climates or for use as secondary entrances where they won’t face as much wear and tear. In our collection, you might like the Norfolk Oak External Door for a classic look or the Redwood L&B (38mm) External Door for a more rustic feel.

 

Tricoya External Doors

 

What Is Tricoya?

 

Tricoya is a special type of engineered wood. It starts as softwood but then goes through a process called acetylation. This scientific-sounding term simply means the wood is treated with a type of vinegar that changes its structure. The result is a wood product that resists water and decay much better than untreated wood. It’s like giving the wood a superpower against rot and warping.

 

Benefits of Tricoya Doors

 

• Exceptional Durability: The 2020 Tricoya brochure states that the material stands up extremely well to moisture. This makes Tricoya doors perfect for the UK’s often wet weather.
• Low Maintenance: Unlike regular wood, Tricoya doesn’t swell or shrink much with changes in humidity. This means less warping and cracking, so you won’t need to repaint or repair it as often.
• Eco-Friendly: Tricoya is made from sustainable wood sources. Its long lifespan also means fewer replacements, which is good for the environment.
• Versatility: Despite being engineered, Tricoya can be painted, stained, or varnished just like natural wood. This gives you plenty of options for customising its look.

 

Drawbacks of Tricoya Doors

 

The main downside of Tricoya doors is their higher initial cost. They’re more expensive than untreated softwood or even some hardwood options. However, this higher upfront price can be offset by lower maintenance costs and a longer lifespan. Also, while Tricoya can be finished to look like natural wood, some people might prefer the authenticity of traditional timber.

 

Best Uses for Tricoya Doors

 

Tricoya doors are excellent for homes in areas with harsh weather, especially in coastal or very rainy regions. They’re also a good choice for homeowners who want the look of wood without the high maintenance. In our range, you might consider the Tricoya Turin Double Glazed Clear Glazed External Door for a modern look with plenty of natural light.

 

Choosing the Right Material for Your External Door

 

When selecting a material for your external door, consider these key factors:

 

• Climate Considerations: GRP and Tricoya resist moisture and prevent warping in rainy or coastal areas. Softwood suits drier, more sheltered locations.
• Aesthetic Preferences: Hardwood and painted softwood offer a traditional look. GRP and Tricoya provide modern options and can mimic wood.
• Long-Term Costs: GRP, Hardwood, and Tricoya have higher upfront costs but lower maintenance. Softwood is cheaper initially but may need more upkeep.
• Maintenance Needs: GRP and Tricoya require little maintenance. Hardwood and softwood need regular care to stay in good condition.
• Security: Hardwood and GRP offer high security. Softwood provides standard security but can be reinforced for added protection.

 

Remember, the best choice balances your specific needs, budget, and home style. Our team is always ready to offer personalised advice if you’re unsure.

 

Choosing the Right Door With Online Door Store

 

Now that you understand the different materials, it’s time to find your perfect door. Visit our website to browse through our external door collections. You’ll find a wide range of options in each material we’ve discussed.

 

Our website has simple navigation tools to help you find exactly what you need. Search by material, type, finish, or even the era of your home to narrow down your choices.

 

Still not sure? Our door experts are here to help. So, get in touch with our team. We’ll be happy to provide tailored advice based on your specific needs.

 

If you can’t find the exact door you’re looking for, remember that we offer made-to-measure doors. These are perfect for non-standard sizes or unique designs.

 

We offer free delivery on orders over £750. Plus, you can spread your payments with no interest, making it easier to invest in the perfect door for your home.

 

Ready to start your search? Head over to our external door collections and find your ideal match today.

 

FAQs

 

What is the most efficient exterior door material?

 

For energy efficiency, GRP and Tricoya doors often perform best. They provide excellent insulation and maintain their shape in varying weather conditions, preventing drafts. Hardwood doors can also be energy-efficient if properly installed and maintained.

 

What type of door is best for the exterior?

 

The best exterior door depends on your specific needs. For durability and low maintenance, GRP or Tricoya are excellent choices. If you prefer a traditional look and don’t mind some upkeep, hardwood doors offer timeless appeal and strength. Softwood doors can be a good budget-friendly option for less exposed entrances.

 

What are the best weather-resistant exterior doors?

 

GRP and Tricoya doors offer superior weather resistance. They won’t warp, rot, or swell in wet conditions, making them ideal for the UK’s often damp climate. Hardwood doors treated with weather-resistant finishes can also perform well in challenging weather.

 

What is the longest-lasting exterior door?

 

With proper care, hardwood doors can last for decades. However, GRP and Tricoya doors often outlast traditional wood doors, especially in harsh weather conditions. They require less maintenance to achieve their long lifespan, which can make them a more practical choice for many homeowners.