Front entry doors are one of the most important aspects of your home. They protect your family and belongings from intruders while conveying a welcoming atmosphere.
The best front doors are made of durable materials that can withstand a lot of wear and tear. They are also designed to deter intruders by making it hard for them to kick the door in.
Curb Appeal
The front door gives the first impression of a home to passersby. A clean, painted or stained front door with attractive hardware leaves a positive impression. It also signals that the homeowner cares about maintenance and has a well-maintained yard.
Front-door accessories, like a coordinating doorknob or welcome mat, can add color and personality to your entryway. Using an analogous color scheme (a combination of side-by-side colors on the color wheel) is an easy way to create an eye-catching entrance. This polka-dot mat and starburst doorknob complement this crimson door.
Paint is a quick and inexpensive way to refresh the look of your entryway. Select a bold shade that coordinates with your existing color palette and house style. If you don’t want to go the bright route, try a neutral shade or a weathered wood finish. Topping your door with a gable or awning is another way to add architectural interest and curb appeal. You can also create an instant trellis for climbing vines with lattice panels mounted on your door’s frame.
Security
The front door separates the outside world from the comfort of your home, so it needs to protect you and your family. That’s why it is important to select a door that will suit your unique needs. For example, if you want more light to flow into your home, you can add sidelights or decorative glass. Or, if you’re concerned about drafts, a door with insulation will be the best choice.
To keep your new exterior doors in tip-top shape, it is important to know the terms that describe the components of a door and its frame. For instance, you’ll want to know the difference between an astragal (a vertical trim that seals the gap between closed double doors), brickmould (the molding that trims the edge of the door’s frame) and casing (a surround that fills the opening between the door jamb and the interior wall). Having this knowledge will help you decide on the right entry door for your needs.
Durability
The front doors that you choose for your home are a critical element when it comes to security. Even if you have the best locks installed, if your front door is not made of a durable material, it can easily be kicked in by a burglar or any other unwanted visitor. That is why you need to look for entry doors that are built from a solid and strong material, such as steel or wood.
For added protection, you can also opt for energy-efficient front doors. These are insulated and help keep the air you pay to heat or cool inside your home, saving you money on your utility bills every month. They are also more resistant to damage than other types of entry doors. Fiberglass is the most popular choice among homeowners for these entry doors because they offer the best combination of security, energy efficiency and performance. However, you can find many options available, depending on your preferences and budget.
Aesthetics
An eye-catching front door is a focal point that creates a lasting impression and sets your house apart from others. It should also be durable, energy efficient and require minimal maintenance. Steel entry doors meet these criteria and more, making them an excellent choice for any homeowner.
A new door replacement can improve the overall aesthetic of your home and increase its value. For example, a fiberglass or wood door can add a warm and welcoming feeling to your entryway. Alternatively, you can select a door with glass that lets in plenty of light while maintaining privacy for your family and guests.
A modern door with an airtight seal can make a dramatic difference in your home’s energy efficiency and save you money on your utility bills. New front doors also resist weather hazards and don’t warp or bow over time, which can be a problem with older doors. They are easy to maintain, which saves you both time and money.