Choosing the right front door is an essential aspect of any home renovation or improvement project. After all, it’s the first thing people are going to notice when they see your place. Homeowners who prefer a more traditional look may opt for a solid wood door, but fibreglass can produce the same look for less.
Here’s what you need to know about your options before you call in the door experts.
Solid Wood Doors
Before you begin flipping through magazines to decide what you want your new front door to look like, you should first decide what you want your front door to be made of. A wood door is the most common choice for a front door, for they are both beautiful and versatile. Wood doors come in a variety of looks, including oak, cherry, walnut, maple, and pine. This variety will make it easy for homeowners to find the right colour to match the exterior of their home. Consider these benefits and drawbacks if you’re thinking of purchasing a wood door for your front entrance:
• Solid wood doors are a good choice for homeowners who are looking to upgrade their home before selling, for wood doors offer a high-end look, especially when they’re stained properly.
• Minor nicks and scrapes can be easily repaired, which will ensure the door looks brand new for years to come.
• Over time, the wood tends to warp and twist, which will result in repair and maintenance fees.
• Wood exterior doors need to be refinished from time to time due to exposure to the elements.
• The front door must be sealed properly to reduce swelling and warping, especially in a humid environment.
Thankfully, there are durable stains and clear finishes that can be purchased at your local hardware store. These products will offer protection for painted doors and will prevent the wood from absorbing moisture and swelling.
If you love the look of a solid wood door but don’t want to be responsible for touch-ups and maintenance, don’t worry. There are other suitable options available.
Fibreglass Doors
If you’re looking for a front door that requires little to no maintenance, then fibreglass is the way to go. A fibreglass front door offers the same benefits as a wood door, but without the maintenance and price. Here’s what you need to know about fibreglass doors:
• They are tough and require virtually no maintenance; a good choice for homeowners who do not want to busy themselves with door repairs.
• They easily mimic the look of wood since they can be stained to match oak, cherry, and walnut wood door looks.
• Fibreglass doors do a better job of insulating your home since they’re built with foam or other insulating materials on the inside.
• Fibreglass doors do not give off the smell of wood and will not rot.
• Downside: it is not a real wood door, which may be a deal breaker for some homeowners and future home renovators.
Steel Doors
But maybe you’re not interested in a wood door or one that’s made to resemble wood. If you’re looking for a more contemporary look for your front entrance, then you may prefer a steel door. Just like a wood or fibreglass door, a steel door will offer a sense of privacy, but with the added benefit of extra security. It’s stronger than wood and fibreglass and will not crack or warp over time.
• A steel door requires minimal maintenance since it’s the strongest door material on the market. Most doors come with an auto-body repair kit, so minor dents and dings can be easily and quickly repaired.
• They are the most cost-effective door compared to their counterparts listed above.
• The inner frame of the door can also be made of steel, which will give it ultimate strength.
• Most steel doors are coated with a polyester finish, which does require repainting to keep the door looking its best overtime.
• The polyester finish, however, will ensure the door withstands weather damage.
Choosing the right front door means finding a balance between style, functionality, and affordability.
Contact one of our door professionals to guide you through the process.
Article originally published by EiEi Home Inc. For more information on articles, reviews, and contractors in your area, please see their website at www.eieihome.com
