Do Fiberglass Doors Smell? Things You Should Know

Homeowners who have recently installed fiberglass doors are often greeted with a surprise strong smell. The strong smell is often an unpleasant chemical smell that can linger for days after installation. Therefore, most homeowners who had previous bad experiences or have heard of the thing from their family and friends often wonder, do fiberglass doors smell?

Freshly manufactured fiberglass doors can release volatile organic compounds. These compounds, often create the odor, causing that “new door smell.”

Below, we will explain why your newly installed fiberglass door might be emitting an unpleasant smell and what can you do to get rid of the smell.

Why Do Fiberglass Doors Smell?

Here’s why your fiberglass door might be emitting that unbearable stench:

The Manufacturing Process

Fiberglass doors are renowned for their durability and weather resistance, making them a popular choice for homeowners. However, the smell issue can often be traced back to the manufacturing process. During production, fiberglass doors are subjected to various chemicals, including resins and adhesives. These chemicals, while essential for the door’s structural integrity, can leave behind a lingering odor.

Environmental Factors

Another reason behind the smell associated with fiberglass doors is environmental factors. Temperature and humidity fluctuations can exacerbate the release of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from the door’s materials. This can lead to an unpleasant scent wafting through your living space, especially when the door is exposed to heat and sunlight.

How to Get Rid of Fiberglass Door Smell

As you can see, most of the time, the smell is caused by the manufacturing process. Therefore, you cannot do much about it beforehand. But, you can certainly take some preventive measures to minimize the smell.

Proper Ventilation

One of the simplest and most effective ways to tackle the fiberglass door smell is through proper ventilation. Open windows and doors to allow fresh air to circulate through your home. This will help dissipate the odor and speed up the off-gassing process of VOCs.

Activated Charcoal

Activated charcoal, a powerful odor absorber, can work wonders in eliminating the smell. Place bowls filled with activated charcoal near the fiberglass door. Over time, it will absorb the odorous molecules and leave your home smelling fresh.

Use Baking Soda

Baking soda is a versatile household item known for its odor-neutralizing properties. Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda on and around the fiberglass door. Leave it for a few hours or overnight, then vacuum it up. Repeat as needed until the smell dissipates.

Apply an Odor Neutralizer

Specialized odor neutralizers designed for porous materials can be applied to the fiberglass door. These products break down the odor-causing molecules, leaving your door smelling fresh. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Seal the Door

If the odor persists, consider sealing the door with a clear, non-toxic sealant. This will help contain any remaining odor within the fiberglass material, preventing it from spreading into your home.

Is There a Fragrance-Free Fiberglass Door?

Now, if you’re concerned about future door odor or just want a less aromatic experience, you might be wondering if there are types of fiberglass doors that don’t come with that new door smell. 

Well, here’s a pro tip for you: Opt for doors with low VOC emissions. Some manufacturers offer fiberglass doors that are specially designed to emit fewer volatile organic compounds. These doors are often labeled as “low VOC” or “environmentally friendly.” While they might still have a faint odor, it’s usually much milder and it dissipates more quickly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the smell from a fiberglass door be harmful to health?

The smell from a fiberglass door is generally not harmful to health. It is often the result of off-gassing of chemicals used during manufacturing. While the odor can be unpleasant, it is typically non-toxic. If you have concerns, ensure proper ventilation and consider using odor-neutralizing methods.

How long does it take for the smell of a fiberglass door to go away naturally?

The duration for the smell of a fiberglass door to dissipate naturally can vary depending on factors like temperature and humidity. In most cases, it should significantly diminish within a few weeks to a couple of months. Using odor-removing techniques can expedite the process.

Can I paint over a fiberglass door to eliminate the smell?

Painting a fiberglass door can be a viable solution to help seal in the odor. Ensure you use paint specifically designed for outdoor or fiberglass surfaces. It’s essential to follow proper preparation and painting techniques for the best results.

Are there specific seasons when the smell from fiberglass doors is more noticeable?

The smell from fiberglass doors can be more noticeable during hot and humid seasons. Elevated temperatures can accelerate the release of odorous compounds. Proper ventilation and odor removal methods become especially important during such periods.

Final Words

So, there you have it. Fiberglass doors can smell pretty bad, but there are ways to get rid of the odor and enjoy all the benefits of your new door. Just remember to ventilate the area, use activated charcoal, baking soda, and odor neutralizers, and seal the door. With a little patience, you’ll be able to say goodbye to that pesky smell and hello to a fresh-smelling home! If you have any questions or need further advice, feel free to leave a comment below. Thanks for reading, and happy home improvement!