A front door bears the responsibility of being the main line of defense for your home as well as the first and last impression that guests will get. If you are considering replacing your current front door or simply wondering what kind of door to install in your new home, you are probably flooded with choices. Choosing the right kind of front door is a balance between security needs and style restrictions. Modern manufacturers offer various kinds of front doors, some of which come prehung in a frame with the locks preinstalled and others of the standalone kind to be installed in a preconstructed frame. If you are unsure of the right choice, you can consult a professional or navigate here because this article offers tons of useful information.
Find The Most Appealing Kind Of Front Door Designs
Lumberyards, door manufacturers, and dealers have multiple kinds of front door designs for you to choose from. Visit the various sellers in your town or browse online for the front door design that excites you the most. If you cannot find anything appealing, consider designing your front door or commissioning a craftsperson to create something unique for you.
Once you have your design in hand, it will be easier to deal with manufacturers to order a custom door made at factory standards. The manufacturers of wood/steelworkers will accommodate your specifications on the materials and panels that are best for designing your front door. Certain designs may preclude certain materials from consideration for your front doors.
Choose The Best Material For Your Front Door
The best material for your front door will depend on the design you selected and the priorities you attach to the door. For example, individuals living in large estates may prioritize style more than security because their front door is not exposed to the public. Modern doors are made from steel, wood, fiberglass, or some combination of the three components.
For functionality and durability, certain materials are recommended for certain parts of your front door. The door frames and hinges are typically steel for security and durability as the door will swing open and shut thousands of times in its lifespan. The main panels are commonly made of translucent fiberglass to increase the natural lighting in the home or elaborate carved wooden panels for those seeking a traditional sense of style.
Wooden Doors
Wooden doors are a popular and traditional option for many homeowners because of their strength, beauty, and versatility. The most common varieties included mahogany, cheery, fir, walnut, oak, pine, and maple. Solid wood doors are the most expensive, and if you are on a budget, you should consider some Stockwood or paint-grade doors. These cheaper alternatives look just as good and are environmentally friendly.
As you shop for prefinished wooden doors, consider those with clear finishes and durable staining, e.g., polyurethane. The best-painted doors have high gloss sheens to offer protection from warping. The finishing on wooden doors must be thoroughly and professionally done to prevent the door from swelling due to moisture absorption.
Steel Doors
If security, durability, and low cost are your top priorities, then a steel front door is the best choice for you. Unlike wood or fiberglass, steel will not warp or crack. Further, any dents on your steel front can easily be pulled and puttied using an auto body repair kit. Steel also offers the advantage of being the cheapest option compared to wood and fiberglass, with prices starting as low as $150.
Fibreglass Composite Doors
If you live in a harsh or very humid climate, a fiberglass composite front door may be the best choice for your home. Fiberglass doors are the cheapest after steel doors and often come with a warrant from the manufacturer. Prices for fiberglass doors start as low as $200. When shopping for a fiberglass composite door, consider a complete entry system that includes the doorframe and the locks to guarantee longevity.
Choosing the right kind of front door is a crucial step in truly owning and securing your home. Do as much window shopping as you require before settling on any one type of front door. Remember that the right kind of front door will serve and secure your home for years. Therefore, there is no need to penny-pinch. The right front door will pay for itself in energy savings, security, and aesthetic appeal.
