If you now at home and start to think about your front door, you may wonder what makes a door reeally good. And when it’s time to buy new one, which is the best one to buy? It’s not just about colors and designs, but so much more. We’re now goin to take a snoopy peek at some of the main door words you’ll come across on your exciting door journey.
Let’s kick off with ‘Exterior Door’. This is the door that you see from the outside of your house. It’s the one that greets you when you come home, and says goodbye when you leave. Next up, the ‘Material’. This is what the door is made of. There are many types like wood, steel or fiberglass. Each material has its own specialties, strengths and weaknesses.
‘Insulation’ is a fancy word for how well a door keeps out the cold wind and keeps in the warm air. A door with good insulation can help keep your house warm in winter and cool in summer, and can even reduce your energy bills. The ‘Style’ of a door is straight forward; it’s how the door looks. It can be classic, modern, rustic and much more. The style often complements the overall architecture of your house.
Now that we’ve got the buliding blocks, we can start the fun task of finding the perfect exterior door for your house.
What should you consider when buying an exterior door?
Buying an exterior door may seem like a simple task, but there are several factors to consider, including materials, durability, security, design, and price.
Materials
The most important factor to consider is the material of the door. There are three main types:
- Fiberglass: They are extremely durable and require minimal maintenance. They can be painted or stained to mimic the appearance of wood.
- Steel: They are known for their high level of security and resistance to weather and heavy traffic. However, they are more susceptible to dents and scratches.
- Wood: They are popular for their natural and high-end appearance. However, they require regular maintenance to prevent warping and rotting.
“One of the most important decisions to make when choosing a new exterior door involves deciding what kind of material to use.” – Anonymous
Durability and Security
Exterior doors are exposed to weather conditions, therefore, it’s important to choose a durable door. Steel and fiberglass doors tend to offer high durability.
In terms of security, all doors can provide a good level of security for your home if they are the correct thickness and have high-quality locks.
Design
The design of a door can impact the overall look of your home. When choosing a design, consider the style of your house.
“It’s important for the door to match or complement the color, design, and style of the house.” – Anonymous
Price
The price of exterior doors significantly varies depending on the material, size, design, and hardware of the door.
Door Comparison
| Fiberglass | High | Medium | $$ |
| Steel | High | High | $$$ |
| Wood | Low | Medium | $$$$ |
Which door should I choose?
The “best” exterior door to buy largely depends on your individual needs. If you live in a harsh climate or have a high-traffic entryway, a durable steel or fiberglass door might be the best choice. If you’re looking for a specific aesthetic appeal, a wooden door might be your best option. Security should also be a key factor in your decision. Remember, regardless of the material, the strength of the door greatly depends on its quality, proper installation and a good locking system.
“Choose a door that fits your specific needs and aesthetics for your home.”
Q1: What is the best material for an exterior door?
A: Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages. Steel doors are very durable and provide excellent security, but can be prone to rust. Fiberglass doors mimic the look of wood without requiring as much maintenance, although they can be more expensive. Wooden doors offer classic aesthetics, but require ongoing maintenance to prevent warping or rotting.
Q2: What should I consider when buying an exterior door?
A: Consider factors such as the climate you live in, your home’s architectural style, and your desired maintenance level. Security and energy efficiency should also be significant factors in your choice.
Q3: Are solid wood doors the best option for an exterior door?
A: Solid wood doors are a good option if you are looking for a high-quality, traditional look. However, they require regular maintenance and can be more expensive than other options. They can also warp in extreme weather conditions, so consider your climate before purchasing.
Q4: How much does a good exterior door cost?
A: The cost of an exterior door can vary greatly depending on the material, the door’s size, and the manufacturer. Generally, you can expect to spend several hundreds of dollars for a basic door, and over a thousand for a premium, custom-made door.
Q5: What is the most secure type of exterior door?
A: Steel doors are considered the most secure type of exterior door due to their strength and durability. However, the security of the door can also significantly depend on the quality of the locks, installation, and the door frame.
Q6: Are fiberglass doors a good option?
A: Yes, fiberglass doors are a good option for many homeowners. They provide good insulation, are very durable, and require little maintenance. They can also be designed to mimic the appearance of wood, giving them a more traditional look.
