Entry-door types

Match the material to the look you want and your budget

Fiberglass

Pros: Moderately priced. Very dent-resistant, our tests show. Low-maintenance.

Cons: Can crack under severe impact.

Features to note Available with smooth surface or embossed wood-grain texture. Edge treatment on some doors makes them look more like wood. Can be painted or stained. Energy-efficient, though adding glass panels cuts insulating value.

Expect to pay $300 to $1,750.

Steel

Pros: Inexpensive. Low-maintenance (unless you have to deal with dents).

Cons: Easily dented, we found. Dents are hard to repair. Scratches pose the risk of rusting if they aren’t painted.

Features to note Energy-efficient, though adding glass panels cuts insulating value.

Expect to pay $135 to $1,550.

Wood

Pros: The high-end look that other materials try to mimic. Least likely to dent. Scratches are easily repaired.

Cons: Expensive. Requires regular maintenance—painting or varnishing—to look its best.

Features to note Rails and stiles (vertical and horizontal parts) made of laminated wood covered with veneer provide the greatest resistance to warping.

Expect to pay $500 to $2,500.