How To Choose Entry Doors
1: STYLE IS KEY
Your front door makes a strong statement about your house, so look for doors that express your personal style but also your home's style. Remember that doors should have agreement with the architecture of your home.
2: SECURING YOUR FORTRESS
Once you find a style you like, check it out for security. Steel doors, while not the most aesthetically pleasing, offer the greatest security against forced entry. Whatever door you pick, make sure it has a deadbolt lock.
3: THE DURABILITY TEST
After you install your front door, you want to forget about it. Before you buy, ask about maintenance. Issues like warping, rotting and cracking are important. Additionally, how often does it need repainting?
4: GET THE LIGHT
Decorative glass panels let in natural light and allow for a view. How about transoms or sidelights? Options include tempered impact glass, glass that limits UV rays and glass that reduces heat loss.
5: CHECK PRICE
Double check the price versus the other doors you have looked at. You can find quality doors in all price levels. Usually, the heavier the door, the more expensive.
6: MEASURE IT
What size door do you need? Know the size of your rough opening. If adding a new decorative element or architectural interest, do you have to expand the door size?
Your front door makes a strong statement about your house, so look for doors that express your personal style but also your home's style. Remember that doors should have agreement with the architecture of your home.
2: SECURING YOUR FORTRESS
Once you find a style you like, check it out for security. Steel doors, while not the most aesthetically pleasing, offer the greatest security against forced entry. Whatever door you pick, make sure it has a deadbolt lock.
3: THE DURABILITY TEST
After you install your front door, you want to forget about it. Before you buy, ask about maintenance. Issues like warping, rotting and cracking are important. Additionally, how often does it need repainting?
4: GET THE LIGHT
Decorative glass panels let in natural light and allow for a view. How about transoms or sidelights? Options include tempered impact glass, glass that limits UV rays and glass that reduces heat loss.
5: CHECK PRICE
Double check the price versus the other doors you have looked at. You can find quality doors in all price levels. Usually, the heavier the door, the more expensive.
6: MEASURE IT
What size door do you need? Know the size of your rough opening. If adding a new decorative element or architectural interest, do you have to expand the door size?
About the Author:
Steven M. Fisher has spent several years advising in the Home Improvement, Building and Remodeling Fields. Before you make any big purchases for your home, check out the Home Remodeling Portal where you can find information on thousands of products at the click of a mouse, as well as, several informative "6 Things To Know Before You Buy..." articles.