When it’s time to replace your front door, all you need to do is pick one that looks good, right? Well, not exactly. There are a number of other things you need to consider.
One of the most important features of a front door is the material it’s made from. It turns out this has a lot to do with the door’s appearance, energy efficiency, and level of security.
This last factor is important, as suburban homes are 50% more likely to get burglarized than other properties.
The good news is there are a number of options available when it comes to front door materials. To help you out in your search, we’re breaking down the most common materials used to make front doors.
Let’s get started.
If you’re looking for a well-rounded option, fiberglass may be your best choice. These doors provide added durability and insulation. Plus, you still have some flexibility when it comes to style.
An advantage of fiberglass is that by staining or painting them, you can achieve any appearance you want.
When it comes to durability, fiberglass is a little better than wood. They’re not as vulnerable to the elements and won’t scratch, dent, or chip easily. You won’t need to worry about replacing them any time soon.
They also provide more insulation, which means higher energy efficiency. You may even see a reduction in monthly energy bills once you have a fiberglass door installed.
Some fiberglass models are hollow, which means a lower price, but less security. Instead, opt for solid fiberglass. You’ll spend a little more, but you’ll get a door that provides great protection and won’t crack, warp, or sag.
Many people don’t think of metal when they think of front doors. However, aluminum doors come with a number of benefits.
Most doors made of aluminum have an insulated core. On the outside, there’s a metal shell. This means they stand up well against the elements and are energy efficient.
It may seem like aluminum doors would be very unattractive. It turns out they come in a number of different styles. You can even get an aluminum door that has the grainy appearance of wood.
Like fiberglass, these doors won’t need much maintenance. They’re very durable and provide good security.
If you’re worried about rust, aluminum doors get manufactured with enamel on the surface to prevent any corrosion. You’ll enjoy many years of use from this material.
Another huge benefit Is aluminum is more environmentally-friendly. Made from sustainable materials, these doors are recyclable, which means they won’t end up in a landfill years down the road.
Once you’ve chosen the type of material for your new front door, you need to take a few more things into consideration. This will ensure you get exactly what you’re looking for.
Make sure you keep the design of the front of your home in mind. The last thing you want is a door that looks out of place. Consider having a custom door made if you’re not finding anything you like while shopping around.
You’ll also want to ensure you order the correct size. If you don’t have a standard entryway, you’ll need to have it measured. You may need double doors or custom framing.
Cost is another thing you need to consider. It’s important to stay within your budget, but try to avoid going with cheaper models. These won’t provide the security or functionality higher-quality doors will.
Remember, this is an investment. Spending a little more will pay off down the road, especially if you’re increasing the energy-efficiency of your home.
Your front door is the face of your home. It has a huge impact on curb appeal and can add character to an otherwise bland facade.
In addition, a front door is the first line of defense against break-ins. You want something that provides you with peace of mind that your family is safe.
Keep the door materials discussed above in mind when making your decision.
We provide a wide range of exterior doors in San Diego and surrounding areas. Contact us today to learn more.
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