How to Choose a New Entry Door

Updating the entry door is a great way to boost your home’s curb appeal, but more than its appearance should be considered when picking the best option. The type of material, maintenance, energy efficiency, and security also matter. Here’s a quick guide to help you make the smartest choice for your home. 

Material

Entry doors are commonly available in three materials: wood, steel, and fiberglass. Wood doors offer a natural, elegant look and are easy to customize, but they are susceptible to weather. For that reason, they’re not recommended for homes without covered porches. Steel doors are incredibly durable and insulate homes better than wood, but their design is more limited. Because of the durable material, steel is the best choice if security is a priority. Fiberglass is extremely energy efficient, and these entry doors are available in almost any color, style, or texture. 

Style

The best entry doors complement or enhance your house’s architectural design while also making a statement about your personality. Classic six-panel doors are considered traditional and can be crafted in wood, fiberglass, or steel. Arched doors with stained glass are more modern and whimsical. Craftsman doors often have one window at the top with black- or wood-outlined panes and rectangular-shaped panels across the bottom. Most doors can be painted any color to add character.

Maintenance

Wood doors require frequent maintenance. They must be stained regularly to prevent rot from exposure to moisture. They can also expand, contract, and warp with changes in temperature and humidity. Sun can cause their paint to fade, so you should expect to sand, stain, or repaint it every two years. Steel doors are susceptible to rust, so any flaws should be primed and painted immediately to prevent corrosion. Fiberglass requires the least maintenance; it is resistant to dents and, with occasional cleaning, only needs to be painted every four to five years to maintain its appearance.

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