Best Replacement Front Door
The exterior door is more than just a portal into your home—it’s an opportunity to showcase your style, increase your curb appeal and boost your home’s energy efficiency. That’s why selecting the right front door is important. It must be tough enough to withstand the elements, a would-be intruder and potential buyers while being beautiful and durable.
There are three main types of doors: wood, fiberglass and steel. Fiberglass and steel are the most popular because they hold up better to weather, denting and scratching than wood and require less maintenance. Wood doors are more expensive but offer a warm and welcoming look that’s hard to beat.
A high-quality, well-maintained wood entry door will last for years and can be stained to match your home’s color scheme click here. However, these doors are susceptible to swelling when exposed to moisture, so it’s best to choose a low-maintenance stain or a paint with a high-gloss finish to protect against humidity and moisture absorption.
What is the Best Replacement Front Door?
For a more affordable option that still looks great, consider a fiberglass front door with an insulated core. These doors are designed to be energy efficient and can reduce your utility bills significantly. They also are a good choice for homes in hot and humid climates. Therma-Tru is one of the top door manufacturers, and they offer a wide selection of different styles that will fit any budget. They also offer a range of warranties for their products in case of any defects or issues.
Regardless of the type of door you select, it’s critical to have it professionally installed. According to This Old House, the installation process includes removing any existing hinge screws and fasteners, caulking around where the new door meets the exterior trim and installing a Z-flashing. A Z-flashing is an extra seal that keeps water and cold air from seeping into your home through the gap between the wall and the frame.
When you are ready to replace your front door, the first step is to decide on a design. You can find many different styles of front doors online or in stores. Some are made of solid panels and others have glass windows to allow light into the foyer. Once you have settled on a design, the next step is to choose a material. While aesthetics are important, the type of door you choose will have an impact on other vital points, including durability, security and energy efficiency.
If you are replacing a builder-grade door, make sure to choose an upgraded model that is designed for durability. The most common mistakes that homeowners make when choosing a front door are going with the cheapest option, not considering the potential for damage and not properly installing the new door. Taking the time to install your front door correctly will help you avoid costly repairs and improve your home’s overall appearance and value.
