Buying a new front door seems straightforward; it is one door, after all. However, it’s not as easy as it may seem once you start looking closer. There are countless options to choose from and factors to consider, from cost and looks to security and energy efficiency. When you think about it, it is the main entryway to your home, one of the first impressions someone walking up to your house gets, and likely also one of the highest traffic areas.
In today’s blog, we’ll have a closer look at what to look for when buying a new front door, from style and materials to size, security and energy efficiency. So, let’s dive in.
Door Style
One of the most immediate considerations for your new front door is its style. As it’s a focal point of your home’s exterior, it can set the tone for your home. Whether you want a traditional, modern, or contemporary look, the door style should complement the rest of your home’s architectural design. Even if you’re looking into making a bold statement, you will still want to balance your door and the rest of the overall aesthetic. Some of the most popular front door styles include:
- Panel Doors: These doors have raised or recessed panels that can add depth and character. They come in a wide variety of types, from simple to intricate, and fit into different styles from colonial to Victorian.
- Glass Doors: If you want to allow more natural light into your home or add a touch of elegance, then incorporating glass panels into your door is a great choice. This also gives you a very wide range of options, from small decorative panes to total glass panels. However, you must also consider potential security and privacy issues.
- Double Doors: Double doors can be extremely useful, especially if you have a larger home or have large items to move into or out of your home. They come in pretty much any style, whether traditional or modern and provide a literal grand entrance.
Door Materials
Another very critical consideration for your front door is its material. Affecting durability, maintenance and overall appearance, your choice can make a significant difference in the effect the door has. Wood doors are known for their natural beauty and warmth and have been a classic choice for centuries. You can customize them with different stains and finishes to match your home’s exterior, and if you want to change the look, they are easy to sand and restain and transform your entranceway immediately. However, wood doors also require regular maintenance to protect them against weathering and warping, so they’re a bit more demanding regarding upkeep.
On the other hand, fibreglass doors are very durable, have low maintenance, and can even mimic the look of wood. They are also available in several styles and finishes, with the bonus of being resistant to dents and scratches. Another benefit is their energy efficiency, which has made them increasingly popular among homeowners. Another favourite is steel doors. As the name suggests, they are highly durable with excellent safety ratings, so they’re ideal for peace of mind. Their construction is resistant to warping and cracking, offering a great and robust barrier against intruders and acting as a deterrent. They can be painted in any colour to match your design, and you can even get them with insulated cores, making them energy-efficient.
Door Size
Door size is a critical part of choosing a new door. This is because you need your front door to fit properly to get the best possible security, functionality, and appearance. Start by measuring the dimensions of your current door, including the height, width, and thickness, to determine the appropriate size.
Standard door sizes are typically 80 inches in height and 36 inches in width, but custom sizes are available, so you want to ensure your existing door isn’t one of these. If you’re considering a custom or oversized door, we recommend consulting with one of Eco Choice’s experts to ensure proper fitting and installation. This will prevent drafts, security vulnerabilities, and operational difficulties.
Security
The front door is your first barrier against potential intruders, so look for a door with solid construction, reinforced frames, and high-quality locks to give you peace of mind and have it act as a deterrent for intruders to prevent them from even trying a potential break-in. Some of the leading security features to consider include:
- Multi-Point Locking Systems: These locks secure the door at multiple points along the frame, providing enhanced security compared to a single lock.
- Security Glass: If your door includes glass panels, look for security glass resistant to breakage. Laminated or tempered glass are good options.
- Reinforced Frames: Ensure the door frame is robust and reinforced, as a weak frame can be a target for break-ins and negate any security features you have in place.
- Certifications: Consider doors certified by security organizations, which can provide extra assurance regarding their protective capabilities.
Energy Efficiency
When looking for a new front door, why not consider increased energy efficiency as well? Technologies have advanced over the last few years to add features that help you reduce your utility bills by reducing energy transfer. Look for doors with good insulation properties, weather stripping, and energy-efficient glass options.
Insulated cores help prevent heat loss and maintain a comfortable indoor temperature during summer and winter. High-quality weather stripping around the door can prevent drafts and improve energy efficiency. This is one element that many homeowners often overlook. Also, look out for Energy Star-rated doors that are designed to meet strict energy performance criteria and can contribute to a more sustainable and comfortable home environment. If you want to include glass in your door, some models have low-emissivity (Low-E) glass, which reduces heat transfer.
Choose a Trusted Door Installation Company
Like windows, choosing the right door is only part of the project. Selecting the right door installation company is also critical to ensure proper installation, which is crucial for the door’s performance and longevity. When doing your research into door installation companies, pay attention to the following factors:
- Experience: Look for companies with extensive experience in door installation. Experienced installers will likely handle unexpected challenges and ensure a precise fit.
- Certifications and Licences: Ensure the company is appropriately licensed and certified. You want to ensure they are not a fly-by-night company willing to cut corners and potentially compromise the quality of your installation.
- Reviews and References: Take the time to read customer reviews (also read negative ones to see how the company deals with potential issues). Don’t be afraid to ask for references so you can gauge their reputation. A professional company that takes pride in the quality of their work will have no problems giving you these references.
- Warranty and Support: Choose a company that offers a warranty on their installation work. This can protect you against potential issues and further shows their confidence in their services.
Call Today to Find Your Perfect Front Door
As you can see, there are different factors to consider when shopping for a new front door, from style and material to size, security, and energy efficiency. These are all equally important to ensure you get the best protection while giving visitors a great first impression.
Eco Choice Windows & Doors is a leading supplier and installer of quality windows and doors. We have been in business for over 15 years, installing windows and doors for many satisfied customers across the province.
We have the knowledge, experience, and expertise to recommend the windows and doors that best suit your needs. Simply put, we supply the highest-quality products, expertly installed and built to enhance energy efficiency throughout the home.
Call us today at (416) 690-9992 or complete our convenient online form to book your free, no-obligation consultation!
