When someone arrives at your home for the first time, your front door is likely one of the first things they’ll notice. It’s their first impression of you and your property. If your door is scuffed, or the paint is peeling, or the design hasn’t changed in twenty years, it might not be the kind of impression you want to provide.
Shopping for new entrance doors is an exciting chance to quickly and dramatically change the way your home looks. In this article, we’re going to go over a few essential factors to keep in mind while you’re browsing for a new front door and the options that are available for you to choose from.
What Are Your Options for Entrance Doors?
Many people tend to think of a single door panel when they picture front doors, but this is only one available style option. You can select from styles like:
- A single door panel with a sidelight window on one side
- A single door panel with a sidelight window on both sides
- A double door composed of two panels
- A double door with two sidelight windows
Any of the above configurations can also include a transom window above the door, which provides additional light and style to match your home. Even the glass in your front door or accenting windows can be customized to include a specific design. Depending on the material of the door you choose, you’ll be able to choose from an extensive range of stains or paint colours.
There are also front doors which can be tilted inward, like a window, called “turn and tilt” doors. This style, while widely found in Europe, is relatively new to North America, and is an easy way to add creative ventilation to your home.
Materials for Front Doors
- Fibreglass – Made of composite materials, fiberglass is strong, durable, and typically more energy-efficient than wood. There is a risk of colour fading over extended exposure to sunlight, but they’re low-maintenance and can beautifully replicate the look of wood grain.
- Steel – Far and away the superior choice for insulation, steel also provides high security and durability with low maintenance. They won’t warp over time, but they can be dented, and there is a risk of rust.
- Wood – Wood is the traditional choice for front doors, and it’s easy to say why. The beautiful, natural qualities of wood create timeless designs, and with a wide variety of wood types to select from, it’s effortless to find a look that speaks to you. Repairs are easy, but wood can warp over time, and it does require some maintenance to remain in good condition.
Features to Consider
- Energy Efficiency – If you live in a climate with cold winters and warm summers, energy efficiency is an essential feature to consider when deciding on new entrance doors. Doors that are energy efficient reduce lost or wasted energy, which translates into saving money from your heating or cooling costs.
- Ease of Installation – If your new door will be the same size as your old one, the installation will be relatively quick and easy. If, however, you’re expanding the size of your entryway or door, the doorway framing will need to be redone, and should be factored into the overall cost estimations of your project.
- Cosmetic Appeal – Finally, you’ll want to make sure that the style of the door matches or complements the existing features of your home. Doors can either be statement pieces, or they can blend into your home’s design. The final decision is entirely at your discretion.
Tips for When You’re Ready to Start Shopping
Online shopping is a convenient way to do preliminary research on a material or style of door that you’re interested in, but there’s no substitute for seeing a product in person. When you’re ready to earnestly begin shopping for your new entrance doors, schedule an appointment at the local showroom.
For more information on our selection of entrance doors, call our Barrie office at (705) 737-1554 or send us a message online.
