Vinyl French Doors vs Fiberglass French Doors

I am talking to people everyday about French Doors and how we can help them.  The big decision is to decide if you want a vinyl French door from a company like Anlin Windows that specializes in vinyl windows and doors or to get one from a front door company like Plastpro that makes fiberglass French doors.  Both make dual pane doors that when finished look similar, but both offer certain advantages.

Vinyl French Doors – Why Homeowners Love Them

Vinyl French doors, like those from Anlin Windows, are incredibly popular—and for good reason.

✅ Pros:

• Lifetime Warranty: Most vinyl doors, especially premium brands, come with full lifetime warranties—including labor and materials. That’s peace of mind you can’t put a price on.

• Low Maintenance: No flaking, chipping, or fading—ever. Vinyl holds its color and shape for life without needing touch-ups or paint jobs.

• Built-In Security: Many come with 3-point locking systems for added safety, plus adjustable hinges that ensure a snug, custom fit.

• Energy Efficient: Vinyl is a great insulator, so these doors help keep your energy bills in check.

❌ Cons:

• Limited Color Choices: You’re usually stuck with white or almond. So if you want a bold or custom color, this might be a downside.

• Upfront Cost: Prices range from $2,000 to $4,000 installed—higher than fiberglass in many cases.

Fiberglass French Doors – Style Meets Flexibility

Fiberglass doors, like those from Plastpro, offer a completely different set of advantages.

✅ Pros:

• Custom Paint Options: You can paint fiberglass any color your heart desires—great for matching your exterior or personal style.

• More Hardware Flexibility: Choose from a wider variety of handles, locks, and finishes to suit your taste.

• Lower Entry Cost: Starting around $800 to $2,000, they often seem more affordable—at least upfront.

❌ Cons:

• Ongoing Maintenance: Unlike vinyl, fiberglass doors need to be painted every few years to prevent wear and tear.

• Limited Warranty: Most fiberglass options offer only a 1-year warranty on parts—not ideal for long-term peace of mind.

• Add-On Costs: When you tally up the extras—$300–$500 to paint, $100–$300 for hardware, and $400–$600 for installation—the total can still climb quickly.

Side-by-Side Comparison

So, Which One Should You Choose?

If you’re looking for long-term reliability, zero maintenance, and a solid warranty, vinyl French doors are a great investment—especially when installed by a company that knows vinyl inside and out (hey, that’s us!).

On the flip side, if custom color and a slightly lower upfront cost matter more to you—and you’re okay with ongoing upkeep—fiberglass French doors could work just fine.

Either way, the choice depends on your home’s style, your budget, and how much time you want to spend maintaining your doors.

Our Expert Take

We install both types of French doors and are happy to help no matter which direction you go. But to be completely honest, we lean toward vinyl. Why? Because we’re vinyl specialists, and we stand by the quality, performance, and warranties our top-tier vendors like Anlin offer.

Our experience shows that vinyl doors pay off over time. You avoid surprise repairs, touch-ups, or paint jobs—plus, you get that smooth, quiet operation homeowners love.

FAQs

❓ Are vinyl French doors more energy-efficient than fiberglass?

Yes, vinyl typically offers better insulation, making it more energy-efficient, especially in extreme climates.

❓ Can fiberglass French doors look like wood?

Absolutely. Many fiberglass doors come with woodgrain textures and can be stained or painted to mimic real wood.

❓ Which one is better for coastal or humid climates?

Vinyl is more resistant to moisture and salt air, making it a better choice for coastal or humid areas.

❓ How long do fiberglass doors last?

With proper care, fiberglass French doors can last 15–20 years or more—but they do require ongoing maintenance to stay in good shape.

Wrapping It Up

Choosing between vinyl and fiberglass French doors isn’t always a walk in the park, but understanding the key differences makes a world of difference. If you’re all about low maintenance and long-term value, vinyl might just be your best bet. But if you’re looking to play with colors and customize, fiberglass has its perks too.

Need help deciding or want a quote? CALL or CLICK today for a FREE estimate—we’re happy to chat, measure, and make sure you get the perfect door for your space and style.

We install either type of door, but favor the vinyl doors as we are vinyl specialists and believe in the quality of the vinyl French doors, especially from our superior vendors.

Learn More…

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