Here’s another take on the classic two-panel fiberglass door—and a perfect example of how subtle differences in size, proportion, and detail can totally shift the feel of a door.
If you’ve seen the previous post, you’ll notice a lot of similarities. Both doors are contemporary woodgrain fiberglass doors, finished in paint and equipped with multipoint lock systems. But there’s one key distinction: this door is significantly smaller.
While the previous project featured a bold 42-inch wide by 96-inch tall fiberglass door, this one comes in at the more standard size—36 inches wide and 80 inches tall. And that change in scale affects everything else around it.
Scaling Proportions for Smaller Doors
One detail I always pay close attention to is hardware proportion—especially the size and placement of the lever set. For this project, we chose a smaller lever set that fits the scale of the door just right. Too large, and it would feel clunky or forced. Too small, and it would disappear. The result here is clean, balanced, and modern.
We also added a geometric metal pattern to the sidelights. It’s a subtle touch, but it gives the entryway a bit more character while still staying true to a clean, contemporary design language.
Painted Finish vs. Stained Finish on Fiberglass
This door features a painted finish over a woodgrain-textured fiberglass slab. That means the texture of the grain is still visible, but the color is completely uniform. No tone variation like you’d find with a stained finish.
A lot of people don’t realize this, but painted fiberglass doors are not only more affordable to finish—they’re also more durable and require less maintenance over time. For modern homes, and for clients who want long-term performance without touch-ups, it’s a great choice.
Honestly, that’s probably what I’ll do with my own door when I eventually get around to replacing it. With 70-hour workweeks, the last thing I want is another maintenance project. That said, it’s always the case: the client jobs get done first, and the “shoemaker” remains without shoes for a little while longer.
Final Thoughts
This project shows how a few small changes—door size, lever scaling, sidelight detail, and finish—can completely change how a fiberglass door feels in context. And that’s what I love most: taking timeless styles like the two-panel door and making each one feel like a unique fit for the home it’s going into.