Wood, aluminum, steel, vinyl, or fiberglass? If you are looking to install a new patio door, there are so many options to consider. You not only have to consider style and color, but also which door frame material, or materials, is going to work the best. Some steel doors actually have wood or foam interiors, and some wood doors might have steel interiors. All material options come with a variety of features and factors to consider. This information should help you get started when choosing patio doors.

Wood Patio Doors

This used to be the most common material used for exterior doors. It is an exceptionally good insulator, and fairly easy to repair. Also, nothing compares to the natural beauty of wood. There are a variety of wood species used in these patio doors including poplar, red oak, ash, hickory, white oak, cherry, walnut, and mahogany. However, wood is vulnerable to weather damage and moisture. It can warp, rot, and fade in extreme conditions. To hold up against weather, wood doors need durable finishes and to be re-stained or re-painted ever few years. Not to mention, these doors often carry a higher price tag.

Aluminum Patio Doors

These are a more economical option compared to the alternatives. Manufacturers design these doors to be sturdy and require minimal upkeep and fortunately, they are lighter than steel. These patio doors have an anodized finish meant to resist corrosion, scratches, and dents. However, that does not make them indestructible. The protective layers can break down and cause problems.

Steel Patio Doors

These doors are made from galvanized steel, a heavy-gauge metal applied over a core. Typically, manufacturers also coat the steel with vinyl, or another polymer. They can even emboss them with a decent looking wood grain. Just like aluminum, steel is another economical option for patio doors. The coatings on these patio doors are durable and resist rust. They are also require little maintenance and have good energy efficiency. Unfortunately, steel patio doors can be extremely heavy. The material can also scratch, rust, and dent—which is difficult to repair.

The best thing about steel patio doors is they won’t warp in changing weather conditions. Steel expands in heat and contracts in cold frigid temperatures. They are also easy to maintain and built to last with just a fresh coat of paint. Steel patio doors are the cheaper alternative than wood which is vulnerable to damage if not treated against termites.

Vinyl Patio Doors

These days it seems like vinyl is getting used in home products everywhere. While vinyl doors are made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), they can mimic more stylish materials like wood and metal. They are more affordable and offer a great value. These patio doors are energy efficient and can stand up against the elements. They will not warp, rot, or fade. However, there are still possible issues. Vinyl can shift in extreme temperatures and is more flammable than other materials.

Fiberglass Patio Doors

This manmade, glass-based material has a clean, modern look. Also, manufacturers can design fiberglass patio doors to look just like wood and you can stain and paint them. These doors are also energy efficient, dent resistant, waterproof, and require little maintenance. The material will not rust, swell, warp, or peel. However, there is one drawback—fiberglass can crack under severe impact. This durable material is moderately priced and very sturdy.

Get Some Professional Advice about Patio Doors

Now that you have some basic information, you probably want to check out a few options and ask questions. At Freelite, we carry a variety of top brands and products. You are sure to find the right patio doors in Scottsdale, AZ. Call today at (602) 233-1981 or stop by 331 W. McDowell Rd., Phoenix, AZ 85003.