Besides entries, exterior doors can also be used in other areas. You can use them as side doors or at the back of your home. Manufacturers understand the importance of these doors, and as a result, they give special attention to them. So, when selecting an entry door, there are a few things to put in mind.
Most entry doors have excellent overall performance. But, the materials used in making them are what differentiate them. Wood, steel, fiberglass, and vinyl each has its strength and weaknesses. According to Total Home Windows and Doors, materials are crucial determinants when it comes to pricing exterior doors.
1. Entry Doors Shopping Tips
- Going Online
When buying an exterior doors, the most challenging thing is coming up with an accurate estimate of how they are sold. But, manufacturers that have taken their shops online make price estimates friendlier. Take it to the online manufacturers and compare prices from a good number of them. Once you get a rough estimate, visit physical stores to have a glimpse of the actual products before placing your order.
- Energy-Efficiency
Look in detail for features of energy-efficient exterior doors. Star rating should be certified, frames should be tight-fitting, and door units with glass fixtures should have double or triple glazed panes. Your doors should also be airtight to prevent air loss through spaces that allow cold air in the house.
However, when considering these doors, ensure you do not put your hopes too high. Energy costs will not reduce in huge percentages, but you will definitely note the difference.
- Installation
Replacement doors are also known as door systems. They come pre-assembled, ready to fix in the existing space. But, if you are doing a remodeling project to your home, you may consider having a custom made doors. Since replacement doors come in standard measurements, they will fail to fit your space by either becoming too loose or too small.
If you are going to adjust your door space, make sure you involve a professional contractor to guide you through the measurements and fitting.
2. Keep Yourself and Your Family Safe
Reinforce your entry door with quality a locking system. Even when you use a strong material for your door, do not forget that intruders attack your locking system to get inside your home.
You can also use a 1-inch deadbolt to reinforce your door. Use a metal box strike in your reinforcement and 3-inch mounting screws. When you have all these fixtures, it will be challenging for intruders to let themselves in whether you are around or not.
3. Types of Front Doors
When we consider types of exterior doors, we focus on materials used in making them. They include:
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Fiberglass
It is a material that makes you feel proud for choosing it. Fiberglass gives your entrance a touch of wood finish but is more durable than wood.
Pros
- Resistant to wear and tear;
- Can be painted;
- Fair pricing;
- Little maintenance.
Cons
- Can crack when subjected to severe impact.
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Steel
Front doors made from steel are most sought-after doors and take half the market for exterior doors.
Pros
- They are readily available;
- Requires little maintenance as compared to other doors;
- Provides high security thanks to its strong material;
- Are energy-efficient;
- Are weather-resistant.
Cons
- When dented, they lose their energy-efficiency;
- They do not withstand wear and tear.
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Wood
It provides unbeatable aesthetic value, which other materials are always looking to mimic.
Pros
- They are easy to repair when scratched;
- Are resistant to wear and tear.
Cons
- Are extremely expensive;
- Requires high maintenance compared to its counterparts;
- They are vulnerable to extreme weather conditions.
4. Entry Door Features
When looking for an entry door, here are some of the most important features to consider:
- Adjustable Threshold
It helps in ensuring your door remains energy-efficient throughout. When your door does not have this, you may need to fix it eventually to prevent weather elements from destroying your internal property.
- Glass
Glass inserts add to the aesthetics of an entry door and allow lighting to the house. Consider using a double-cylinder bolt lock when using front doors fitted with these inserts. Consult with your municipality to see if they are allowed in your area.