Door style is a huge decision for homeowners, especially for those that are considering new doors. From appearance to durability and energy efficiency, it’s a critical decision.
The right door can boost your home’s security and keep it warm in winter and cool in summer. But the wrong door can be a disaster.
Steel
The steel door is a great option for homeowners looking to make an eye-catching and durable entrance into their home. It is sturdy and reliable and can withstand a barrage of environmental hazards that could wreak havoc on other materials. Steel doors are also energy-efficient, which can lower your monthly utility costs. They are available in a wide variety of styles to suit your design preferences.
Despite their name, steel doors are not made of solid steel. Typically, they consist of a polyurethane or a polystyrene core with a steel skin that varies in gauge and quality. Steel entry doors are quite heavy, so their installation should be handled by a professional to avoid air and water infiltration.
They are less expensive than fiberglass and wood doors, which makes them an excellent choice for homeowners on a budget. They are also not prone to warping and sagging and do not require costly maintenance. Moreover, they offer superior security benefits and are a good choice for homeowners who want to add value to their home or reduce their utility bills.
Fiberglass
Fiberglass front doors are compression-molded and designed to hold their shape over time. They look attractive and resist dents, scratches, and insects. They can also be painted to match a particular home style.
Fiberglass is a good choice if you live in an area with harsh weather, as it resists warping and corrosion better than steel skins. It is also very durable and able to withstand moisture and humidity. It also has a natural resistance to rust.
The best part is that fiberglass entry doors are very energy efficient due to their foam cores, which reduce heat transfer. This helps keep your house cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter, which can significantly reduce your energy bills. Moreover, these doors can be outfitted with windows and door lites in different styles to fit your home style. Authentic wood-grain textured fiberglass doors are available, which can mimic the appearance and feel of real wood without the maintenance.
Wood
Wooden doors have a unique, natural look that is often sought out by homeowners. They can be crafted in an infinite number of styles, and they provide more design flexibility than any other door material. Wooden doors can also be painted in any color imaginable, and they can be stained to match the unique style of your home.
In addition, wooden doors are an ode to the classic design of past ages. They’re crafted using stile and rail construction methods, and they often have designed details included among the panels. Wooden doors are durable and can withstand high winds, but they may not be as energy-efficient as other types of doors.
To protect your home against Florida’s harsh hurricane seasons, you’ll need a high-quality hurricane impact entry or patio door solution. Fortunately, solid panel doors from our Rustic Collection meet Florida’s stringent building codes for use in high-velocity hurricane zones. They also come with an industry-leading structural rating and are tested for strength to withstand a wide range of wind conditions.
Aluminum
Aluminum doors provide a sleek look and add strength to homes. They can withstand the elements and protect against weather, would-be intruders, outdoor noises and more. They are also very easy to maintain.
Unlike some other metals, aluminum is resistant to corrosion. This is important for homeowners living in coastal regions, where salty air can damage metallic products. Aluminum also provides thermal stability, meaning it won’t swell and shrink with changes in temperature or humidity.
Another advantage of aluminum is that it can be customized to suit a variety of different styles. You can choose from a wide range of grille, trim and interior finish options to create a custom design that complements your home’s décor. And, like vinyl, aluminum is durable and affordable. However, it is prone to staining from water and can leave marks on the surface. This is why you should always use a soft cloth to clean your aluminum door. You should also sand down the doors regularly to prevent scratches and dents.