Upgrading your entry door can be a significant undertaking, particularly if it hasn’t been done in quite some time and you may be looking at entirely new features or even technologies. It’s essential to choose wisely so that you end up with a door that not only boosts your curb appeal but lowers your energy bills and keeps your home safer as well. We’re going to look at the essential factors to consider when choosing an entry door for your home.
How to Choose the Right Door – What to Consider
Style: Finding the Perfect Match
One of the first things that many homeowners consider is the look of their door. The front door of a home is very commonly used as an aesthetic focal point. There are 3 common styles you’re likely to see:
- Traditional: These doors are commonly made from wood and feature raised panels or decorative glass panels. These are often chosen for Victorian or colonial homes.
- Craftsman: Craftsman doors are characterized by simple lines and flat panels, sometimes have glass lites, which makes them perfect for bungalow-style homes or cottages.
- Modern: Clean lines and minimalistic designs are the trademarks of modern-style doors, and they also frequently have large glass panels with metal or wood finishes.
Material: Balancing Aesthetics and Durability
The material that a door is made from plays a crucial role in the overall appearance, durability, and maintenance that is needed. Here are the materials you’re most likely to encounter:
- Wood: Wood is timeless, but it’s also one of the most costly and labor-intensive options. Wood can warp, rot, and fade. They can be painted or stained, but need to be maintained over time which can be costly.
- Steel: Steel doors provide ultimate security and insulation, while still being a very cost-effective option. They are low-maintenance, but can be dented and can rust if neglected.
- Fiberglass: Fiberglass doors can mimic the look of wood, but offer the look with better insulation durability, and weather resistance.
Energy Efficiency: Saving on Heating and Cooling Costs
Looking for doors that have an Energy Star label can help you find the most energy-efficient doors. The ideal options will often include features like insulated cores, built-in weather stripping, and the use of Low-E glass. Ensuring that your door is high-efficiency can help minimize energy loss and thermal transfer, putting less stress on your HVAC components over time.
Security: Protecting Your Home and Family
The door you choose should have security features designed to keep you and your family safe. This can include upgraded locks or a heavier door frame. It can also mean upgrading the material of the door to steel, which is the most secure option in most cases.
Energy Pro Is Ready To Help You Choose the Right Door For You
Choosing the right door for your home’s unique needs can seem overwhelming at first, particularly when you see the wide range of options out there. However, when you think about the factors that we discussed here, and apply them to your specific situation, you’ll be prepared to make the most informed choice possible.
At Energy Pro Windows & Siding, our team of local expert contractors is ready to help you go through all of the options available to find the one that best fits your needs, including brands like ProVia, Albany, and Sunrise. Reach out today to Energy Pro to discuss your home’s needs or to get started scheduling a quote.
