Solid Wood Doors vs. Wood Doors with Glass

Natural wood adds warmth and beauty to the entryway of any home. You can select from pre-hung doors that are easier to install, as well as unfinished or finished wood doors. Wood doors cost more than fiberglass and steel and are more subject to rot and weathering if they’re not regularly maintained. But fiberglass and steel doors lack the richness, warmth and natural beauty wood affords, which is why it is still the go-to choice for homeowners who want a luxury look that adds curb appeal to their homes. Unless you’re an experienced painter, buying a pre-finished door offers a quality and tough topcoat that requires little maintenance. Solid wood doors include stiles, vertical pieces, and rails, the horizontal ones made of solid wood unless the door is carved out of a single piece of wood. The benefits of well-made wood doors include safety, security, and design appeal over fiberglass or steel doors because of their weight, strength, and beauty.

A wood door with glass is not as energy-efficient as a solid wood door unless the glass is dual-paned, but it can be more eye-catching than a solid wood door. Be prepared to spend more on a door with glass in it; the added glass can sometimes double the cost, depending on how much glass the door has. You can choose from stained, beveled, clear or matte glass, depending on the look you’re after. Consider your security needs and glass placement when you’re choosing a wood door with glass. A wood door with metal scrollwork sandwiched between the panes or over the glass can eliminate any security issues.