It’s really easy to maintain your fiberglass doors, which is why fiberglass is such a popular option in Kentucky. Your front door is integral to protecting your home, and regular maintenance keeps it in tip-top condition and working well. But when you have spent a lot of money on a door replacement, you don’t want to spend extra time and money on extensive maintenance. Luckily, you won’t have to because fiberglass is low maintenance.
Maintain Your Fiberglass Doors With Regular Cleaning
Unlike wood doors that require extensive maintenance, fiberglass doors just need a gentle cleaning. Wooden doors need to be resealed or painted, while fiberglass doors just need to be wiped with a cloth and mild soap. The surface of fiberglass is non-porous, so it doesn’t absorb dirt, dust, or moisture.
Don’t use abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals on your fiberglass door, as they can damage the finish. When you have cleaned your door, rinse it thoroughly and dry it with a cloth.
6 More Ways You Can Maintain Your Fiberglass Doors
Fiberglass is low maintenance and durable, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t steps you can take to keep it looking good and working well.
1. Protect from Sunlight
Although the polymer resin in fiberglass doors is formulated to resist damage from UV rays, taking extra care to protect your door from harsh sunlight can’t hurt. Use a UV-resistant coating or protective film to prevent your fiberglass door from fading or discoloring.
You can also consider a portico. Protecting your door from direct sunlight is a simple and hassle-free way to increase its lifespan.
2. Inspect and Repair
Your front door gets well-used, so inspect it regularly for scratches and dents. Any damage to the surface of the door can compromise its efficiency, so regular inspections can help you repair damage quickly.
3. Look After Hardware
Hinges and locks can wear over time, so be sure to lubricate them regularly with a silicone-based lubricant or replace them if necessary. Check the hinges for dirt, debris, and rust.
4. Check Weatherstripping
Inspect the weatherstripping around the door for cracks. Replacing the weatherstripping is quicker and easier than replacing the whole door.
5. Be Gentle
Treat your door with care and avoid slamming it. Being gentle with your door will increase its lifespan.
6. Repaint
Over time, your fiberglass door may fade or deteriorate. Luckily, a coat of paint (based on the manufacturer’s instructions) can make a big difference. Be sure to use paints and stains specifically made for fiberglass surfaces.
Signs It’s Time To Replace Your Doors
Here are some signs it’s time to replace your doors:
- Difficulty Opening or Closing: If your door sticks, drags, or is difficult to open or close, it could be due to issues with the frame, hinges, or the door itself.
- Drafts and Air Leaks: Feeling drafts or noticing cold air around the door, even when closed, suggests poor insulation or weatherstripping, indicating the need for replacement.
- Visible Damage: Visible damage, such as cracks, warping, dents, or dings, can compromise the structural integrity and appearance of the door.
- Moisture Infiltration: Signs of water damage, such as rot, decay, or mold growth, mean the door’s weatherproofing has been compromised.
- Energy Efficiency Issues: Doors with poor insulation or outdated materials can result in energy loss, leading to higher heating and cooling bills.
Kentucky Home Exteriors: Door Replacements You Can Trust
At Kentucky Home Exteriors, we trust our outstanding suppliers and their fiberglass products. We know that having a durable, low-maintenance fiberglass door is best for our Kentucky clients. If you want to learn more about how to maintain your fiberglass doors, contact us for a free in-person consultation.
