Make a statement by choosing the right entry door for your home
Nothing else quite says welcome home more than a beautiful, functional entry door. With hundreds of design options, standard doors can be purchased at a local big-box store for just a few hundred dollars or may be custom designed and artistically and elaborately carved for five figure sums. Although the latter is not within the budget of the average homeowner, you can still make a personal statement without spending exorbitant amounts of money. The important thing to remember is that a door is truly an investment, one you may very well use every single day. Beware of simply comparing price tags, because you truly get what you pay for. And a cheaply made door that quickly warps, doesn’t open and close properly, leaks heat energy dollars, or is easily susceptible to damage or burglary may end up costing you much more in the long run.Choosing the type of door that fits your needs
Ÿ Fiberglass: Ever since the advent of fiberglass, the door industry has been revolutionized. Fiberglass doors can have some pretty limitless possibilities, because they can be stained or painted to match any color scheme and may even be textured to resemble a wood door. These doors are known for their resistance to damage, and can be an excellent choice for an entry that receives a lot of people traffic. And best of all, fiberglass doors are high in energy efficiency.
Ÿ Wood: Wood doors have obviously been around for a very long time. They can be from simple to ornate, and the timeless beauty of natural wood is hard to beat. Most likely implementing a stile and rail construction, today’s wood doors are also much less susceptible to the shrinkage and expansion caused by weather changes. A wood door requires more attention to maintenance to retain its beauty and functionality, but it still remains a popular choice for those who love real wood.
Ÿ Wood clad in aluminum: This is a popular choice for those who want a wood door on the interior of their home but don’t want the maintenance involved with exterior surfaces exposed to the weather. Impervious to climate changes, these doors can offer the best of both worlds.
Ÿ Steel: Steel has a reputation for being tough. And when used in a door, steel adds strength and an increased level of security. Weather has little effect on these doors, and they can last for a very long time. They can be painted to complement color schemes, and are insulated to provide high-energy efficiency. This, combined with their economical price, is inviting to homeowners who aren’t set on having a traditional looking door.
Options to personalize your door
Ÿ Hinges: Most doors are single hinged, but sometimes doors that swing either way are utilized. This can be an important component of handicapped accessibility. Non-removable pin hinges prevent the door hinges being taken off from the outside, maximizing security.
Ÿ Glass: Glass can add unparalleled beauty to your entryway door. Decorative glass may be arched, oval, square or rectangular, and may in a solid pane or split into smaller shapes. For added beauty, the glass can be etched, multi-color stained, beveled, or frosted. It is critical to remember that the larger the area of glass, the less secure and less energy efficient the door will be overall. If you don’t wish to use glass, you may want a peephole so you can see who is at your door before opening it.
Ÿ Locks and doorknobs: Even the strongest door won’t keep out intruders if the lock is weak. Ask your dealer about the most reputable locks on the market. Yes, you will pay more, but you won’t have the aggravation of a door that is difficult to unlock when your arms are full of groceries. Lock and handle sets can be as simple or elaborate as your imagination allows, and may be of bronze, steel, or other metals and offer a choice of finishes. Traditional doorknockers add a nice touch as well.
Select an entryway door that reflects your family’s personal preferences and fits in well with the architectural style of your home as well. Buy the best door your budget will allow. Choose wisely – you’ll likely be living with this door for a very long time.