Both materials shine in their own way, yet they attain different goals.
Both materials shine in their own way, yet they attain different goals.
Steel: strength and high resale value. Fiberglass: rich wood looks with almost no upkeep.
How the Two Materials Stack Up
Here’s how the two favorites compare for South Shore homes:
- Resale value: Steel entry doors return 216% of their cost in New England, one of the strongest payouts of any home upgrade you can pick.
- Curb appeal: Fiberglass shows off real wood grain, yet it won’t rot, warp, or beg for yearly refinishing like a true wood slab.
- Price point: A steel door averages around $2,547 in New England, so it fits tighter budgets without cutting corners on durability.
- Premium upgrade: A grand fiberglass entry door runs near $11,953 in New England, a statement piece for homeowners chasing real wow-factor.
- Long-term payback: That grand fiberglass entry still returns 87% of its cost, rewarding you with beauty and steady value over the years.
Quick Side-by-Side
| Option | Pros | Cons | Best For | Price |
| Steel | 216% ROI, strong, budget-friendly | Less wood-like look | Value seekers | ~$2,547 (NE avg) |
| Fiberglass | Wood look, no rot, 87% ROI | Higher upfront cost | Curb-appeal lovers | ~$11,953 (grand entry, NE avg) |
Which Door Wins for Your Home
Top Recommendation: Steel for the strongest return at 216% ROI in New England.
Best for Budget: A steel door near $2,547 keeps your costs low.
Best for Curb Appeal: A grand fiberglass entry door for that warm wood look.
Ready to pick the perfect door for your Holbrook home? Our team walks you through every option, sample, and shade. Coastal Windows & Exteriors is New England’s #1 woman-owned door company, backed by 7,000+ installations. Contact us for a free estimate or click to learn more about our doors.
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Last Updated: July 2026
Sources:
- Steel entry doors return 216% of their cost on resale. JLC 2025 Cost vs. Value Report, JLC’s national analysis of remodeling project returns. (2026)
- A steel door averages about $2,547 in New England. JLC 2025 Cost vs. Value Report — New England, regional remodeling cost and resale data. (2026)
- A grand fiberglass entry door costs near $11,953 in New England, returning 87% of its cost. JLC New England Cost vs. Value figures, regional cost and resale data for premium entry doors. (2026)