The front door is one of the most noticeable features of any home. It offers security and enhances curb appeal, but it’s also a great opportunity to improve home energy efficiency.
Professional installers offer a wide range of doors to fit any aesthetic, from traditional wood and fiberglass styles to modern and sleek aluminum-clad options. They take precise measurements and follow a thorough installation process to ensure a weatherproof fit.
Curb Appeal
Your front entry door is more than just a way into your home. It’s a statement that showcases your style and sets the tone for how your house is designed. It’s also the first thing that prospective home buyers will see, and it communicates their initial impressions of your house.
A clean, attractive exterior can convince buyers to keep coming back to see what’s inside. It also conveys that your house is well cared for, and that the interior is likely to be just as clean and attractive.
Some of the best ways to boost your curb appeal are simple and affordable. For example, you can make a big impact by cleaning your siding or power washing your deck. You can also spruce up your door by painting it or adding an eye-catching storm door design. Another easy and budget-friendly improvement is swapping out a dated mailbox for a more stylish model. Symmetrical arrangements of planters and wall lanterns are pleasing to the eye and create welcoming entryways.
Security
A front door is more than just a way to greet guests; it’s also a barrier against harsh weather conditions and intruders. Homeowners can choose from a wide variety of doors that combine security and style.
Homeowners can also improve their doors’ basic security by installing a door alarm and peephole. Keeping the area around the front door well-lit is another deterrent to would-be burglars, as it suggests that someone may still be home.
Some exterior doors feature sidelights to let homeowners see who is approaching before opening the door. These windows can be frosted, making it harder for intruders to see inside a house or view valuables. Other features that help keep homes secure include security bars, a strike plate lock, and deadbolts. Homeowners who want to go even further can install a wide-angle peephole. They can also add a light sensor and connect it to a smart-home system, so it automatically turns on at dusk and off at dawn.
Energy Efficiency
Your front doors can say a lot about your home, from the style to the security. But, they can also impact your energy costs. Having the right exterior doors can increase your property value and make your home more energy efficient. If you have old or damaged front doors, consider replacing them with replacement entry doors that are energy-efficient.
The front door material you choose impacts your energy efficiency, as well as the type of glass and other features on the exterior. For example, wood doors provide a warm and classic look but aren’t as energy-efficient as fiberglass or steel. They’re also susceptible to swell and warp.
Fiberglass doors are energy efficient, with polyurethane cores that reduce heat transfer and combat sweltering summer temperatures. Glass options like side lites and transoms allow light into your entryway, giving your home a more open feel. They can also help you keep an eye on who is approaching your home so you don’t have to open your front door wide.
Maintenance
Front doors take a beating in everyday use. If they aren’t properly maintained, they can suffer from moisture leaks, rot or structural damage. Regular maintenance measures prevent these issues from occurring, preserving the longevity of your investment.
For wood entry doors, routine cleaning removes dirt and grime build-up. Applying a protective sealant or varnish annually protects the surface from moisture and ultraviolet (UV) rays.
Steel entry doors can be prone to scratches and dents. If you notice a scratch, it’s important to address it right away to avoid corrosion and damage to the door’s frame.
If your entry door faces west, it’s particularly prone to sun damage. You can mitigate this issue by planting trees or using a physical barrier to block sunlight, but you may also want to consider a UV protectant. If your door hardware is bronze, it’s likely to develop a natural patina over time that enhances its aesthetic value and provides additional durability.