Helpful Tips When Choosing a Front Door
When you invite guests into your home, they see your front door first. These doors are one of the most used parts of the house, so choosing the right front doors can make a world of difference. With so many styles, materials, and designs on the market, the options become genuinely limitless. However, not all doors will fit your home perfectly, so here are some factors to consider when replacing your front door.
Style and design
The front doors should work with the rest of the house’s architecture, both inside and out. However, that doesn’t mean owners can’t take this opportunity to make a bold statement or express their unique style. The doors could be the base for a new home makeover.
If privacy isn’t a particular concern, doors with a significant glass surface can provide a more elegant appearance and blend the inside and outside. On the other hand, wooden doors with frosted glass might be more optimal for a more timeless look, especially if the entryway is heavily decorated as-is. But, of course, owners can pick and choose exactly what they want in the front doors, and there’s probably something that fits those parameters out there.
Size
Most standard single doors are between 32 and 36 inches wide. However, for larger entryways, there’s always a bit of leeway. Additions like sidelites or transoms can use the extra space. Double doors or French doors offer extremely wide entrances to add a lot of glamour and style at a price.
Materials
There are three primary materials that front doors are made from; wood, steel, and fiberglass.
Wood is the most classical door material. Modern wooden doors are sturdy, coated in moisture and rot-resistant paints, and allow for a nearly seamless seal. Typically, a wooden door is made by sandwiching a wooden or steel core in layers of veneers to minimize warping and improve durability.
However, the natural beauty of wooden doors comes at a price. These models are typically the most expensive and require periodic inspections and maintenance to ensure they don’t deteriorate.
Fiberglass composites are made from durable plastics interlined with glass fibers for added durability. In addition, they typically have a foam core to provide more insulation and prevent heat transfer. Fiberglass is one of the more cost-effective materials that doesn’t skimp on longevity since these doors can last for years without any problem. They are also generally lightweight.
Steel doors won’t crack or warp under pressure, but they can get dented from impact. The steel used for the doors is treated for rust resistance but conducts heat much better than other materials. However, even with an insulating core, steel doors suffer in the energy efficiency department and won’t perform well in climates with extreme heat or cold.
Do you need a professional door installation?
A professional front door and window installer will provide a good overview of the most efficient and stylish option to use with your current home architecture. Consult their services for best results.
Clover Valley Home Service offers reliable service in plumbing, electrical, Trim Carpentry & Built-Ins, hardie board siding, stucco repair, and interior and exterior door. Our work is guaranteed. Call (916) 742-3141 today!
