An exterior door serves multiple functions—it keeps the home and its occupants safe from outsiders, acts as an inviting entrance for visitors, and adds to the curb appeal—helping homeowners create a strong first impression. So, choosing the right exterior door can require careful consideration of various available styles, suitable materials, and pricing. To help make this decision easier, here are a few key factors to consider when buying exterior doors:
1. Material
One of the most important factors to consider when buying exterior doors is the material. Here are the common options:
Wood: Wood is a popular choice here, and several different types of wood can be used. The cost of a single door would depend on the type of wood used, such as cherry, hickory, knotty pine, mahogany, maple, pine, and white oak. These doors typically require regular maintenance, as they are prone to moisture damage and cracking.
Metal: Metal is the most durable material for doors. It is generally affordable and requires little-to-no maintenance. However, metal doors come in standard sizes and cannot usually be trimmed to meet unique requirements. The material is also prone to denting and rust damage.
Fiberglass: Fiberglass has become an increasingly favored choice, being a low-maintenance, customizable material that is less likely to fade, dent, rust, crack, or scratch. Fiberglass is also well-insulated to help keep the home cool during summer and warm during winter, reducing energy bills. However, it is essential to opt for high-quality fiberglass for front doors to reduce the risk of breakage.
2. Color and style
The front door can contribute to a strong first impression, as it is the first thing a visitor notices. That is why it is important to pick the right color and style. Here, one should consider factors such as local climate, the overall style of the home, and the neighborhood or community design preferences. This will help one create a coherent look for the home.
3. Size
While the standard size is 80×36 (or 32) inches, one can get doors of different sizes. So, first, one must measure the doorway by noting the width and height of the current slab using a measuring tape and rounding it off to the nearest inch. Then, one can check if the chosen design offers double doors instead of a single exterior door, which can also impact size.
4. Safety
The main purpose of a front door is to protect the inhabitants of the house. So, one should opt for high-quality materials and appropriate safety closures, bolts, and other mechanisms to create a secure home.
