Choosing the right entry door involves balancing aesthetics, durability, and functionality. Here’s what to consider when shopping for a new door for your front, back, or side entrance.
General Tips for Buying Entry Doors
Research Online & In-Store: Explore manufacturer sites for designs and specifications, then visit stores to see the doors in person.
Energy Efficiency:
- Steel and fiberglass doors offer better insulation than wood.
- Look for Energy Star-certified models with tight frames, insulated cores, and double or triple-pane glass.
- Note: Doors only account for a small portion of heat loss in a house—most loss occurs around the frame.
Professional Installation:
- Pre-hung doors (pre-framed with knob and lock pre-drilled) simplify installation.
- For resizing or adding sidelights, hire a contractor.
Security Features:
- Reinforce the door jamb with long screws and metal strike plates.
- Opt for locks with a 1-inch deadbolt for added security.
Types of Entry Doors
1. Fiberglass Doors
- Appearance: Smooth or wood-grain embossed surface.
- Pros:
- Durable, dent-resistant, and low-maintenance.
- Can be painted or stained.
- Better weather resistance than steel.
- Cons:
- May crack under severe impact.
- Best For: Moderate budgets, areas prone to wear and tear.
2. Steel Doors
- Appearance: Available in smooth finishes with optional glass inserts.
- Pros:
- Affordable and secure.
- Energy-efficient and weather-resistant.
- Cons:
- Susceptible to dents, which are hard to repair.
- Scratches can rust if not painted promptly.
- Best For: Budget-conscious homeowners, security-focused entrances.
3. Wood Doors
- Appearance: High-end and natural aesthetic.
- Pros:
- Best at resisting wear and tear in tests.
- Scratches are easy to repair.
- Resilient against dents.
- Cons:
- Expensive.
- Requires regular maintenance (painting or varnishing).
- Best For: Luxury homes, entrances needing a classic look.
Entry Door Features to Consider
1. Adjustable Threshold
- Keeps the door weather-tight over time, preventing drafts and water entry.
2. Glass Inserts
- Enhance the door’s aesthetic but can reduce insulation.
- Opt for double- or triple-pane glass to minimize heat loss.
- Use a double-cylinder deadbolt for added security if the glass is near the lock.
3. Rails & Stiles
- Choose laminated wood covered with veneer for durability and resistance to warping.
Safety Tips
- Reinforce doors leading from the garage to the house.
- Avoid hollow-core doors, which are easier to break.
- Ensure locks and strike plates are securely mounted into the frame.
Final Thoughts
Whether you prioritize durability, security, or design, there’s an entry door to suit your needs. Fiberglass doors offer a balance of cost and performance, steel doors are budget-friendly and secure, and wood doors provide timeless elegance.
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