Front entry doors add value to your home, increase security and improve energy efficiency. They protect against the elements, intruders and the sun.
Front doors come in a wide range of styles to complement your home’s architecture. They also vary in material, color and finish. Typically, homeowners choose from one of the following options:
Wood
Wood front doors offer a range of design options, including carved details and natural textures. They are durable and strong, resisting intruders and keeping the home comfortable year-round. Wood is also an excellent insulator, keeping cold air out and hot air in. The dense cellular structure also absorbs sound better than fiberglass or steel.
Wood doors can be a more environmentally conscious choice if sourced from sustainably managed forests with FSC certification. They require regular maintenance, however, and need to be refinished every few years to protect the wood from rot or damage.
For added security, consider adding a peephole or smart lock. You can also add a draught seal to minimize air leaks and energy loss.
Fiberglass
More and more homeowners are choosing fiberglass front doors to complement their homes. These entry systems are crafted with premium components to ensure performance and durability. They don’t rot, crack or rust, and they can be custom-designed with security features like integrated sensors and double-keyed deadbolts. They also resist the attraction of pests, including termites and carpenter ants.
Fiberglass front doors look just like wood, but they require significantly less upkeep. Unlike wood, these doors do not expand and contract due to humidity, so they can endure harsh weather conditions. They are also insulated, helping to improve home energy efficiency.
Choose from a wide range of styles and colors. Add grilles, hardware and glass to personalize your door. Some manufacturers use nickel vapor deposition technology to replicate authentic wood grain details on their fiberglass doors. This helps these doors blend seamlessly into a variety of home aesthetics, ranging from classic to contemporary. Many styles come in multiple stain options and color combinations.
Aluminum Clad
When it comes to your home’s exterior doors, the right choice can make your property look more attractive and increase its value. They can also provide enhanced security and protection against the elements, intruders and noise.
The best way to protect your investment in a new front door is to choose one with aluminum cladding. This material is a durable, energy-efficient alternative to wood and fiberglass. It can also be textured to emulate the look of wood grain, providing you with a wide array of design options.
The cladding shields the less vulnerable wood core, helping it resist moisture and preventing warping, rusting and weather damage. It also offers resistance to fading and peeling, which can cut down on maintenance costs and minimize the need for repainting. These doors and windows are ideal for homeowners who prioritize low-maintenance and energy efficiency. They’re available in a range of French, pivot and bi-folding patio door systems.
Steel
When security and durability are your priority, nothing beats a steel front door. These smooth, durable doors resist scalloping and warping even in harsh weather conditions. They also feature a grade 40 security rating and can be customized with an array of colors and designs, including those that look like wood grain. They’re a smart upgrade that protects your property against intruders and colder air while enhancing energy efficiency.
When choosing the right exterior entry door style, consider your home’s design and the direction it faces. You’ll want to make sure your new front door complements the rest of your exterior, while showcasing your unique style and design. You should also consider how much visibility you’d like in and around your front door, as there are different options for glass. These include full-lite, half-lite and frosted options. You can also select from different panel sizes and styles. Some even have windows above the door to allow natural light into your home.