A front door can be a significant investment for any home. It needs to be secure, and it should complement the architectural style of the property.
Energy efficiency is also a key consideration when choosing an entry door. Look for a U-Factor rating that reduces your heating costs in winter.
Steel
Steel doors are an increasingly popular option for homeowners seeking to improve their home’s security and energy efficiency. They are highly durable and easy to maintain, while offering ironclad protection against unwanted intruders. In addition, they can be customized with an array of features to suit your personal style.
A basic steel door starts at around $200 before installation costs. However, the price can increase significantly depending on the size of the door and the level of customization. For example, a door with high-definition embossing is likely to cost more than a simple smooth design.
A good quality steel door has a layer of thermal foam that insulates the frame and keeps heat and cold from seeping into your home. The foam also makes the door ding- and scratch-resistant, as well as highly resistant to dents. Steel doors are a great choice for Texas climates but be sure to keep them shaded from the sun’s direct light as metal surfaces can get extremely hot.
Timber
Wood doors have always been the premium choice for homeowners and are available in a wide range of styles with unique design details. These doors offer an unmatched combination of beauty, durability and sustainability. They are also easy to maintain, requiring little more than periodic cleaning and resealing. Additionally, they offer ironclad protection against forced entry.
They can be crafted with a variety of panel formations and carvings to complement your home’s architecture. These doors can add timeless appeal and increase your property value. They’re also highly durable, lasting for years and withstanding extreme weather conditions.
Wood doors can also enhance your home’s energy efficiency. They are rated for their thermal performance with a U-Factor and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC). A low SHGC means your door is good at keeping the sun’s heat, both direct and indirect, out of your home. A low U-Factor indicates the door is good at keeping your home’s heat in, especially during the winter.
Evolution PVCu
Whether your style is traditional or contemporary, you’ll find an entrance door to suit your taste. You’ll also find a wide range of glazing, colour and hardware options to make your home centrepiece truly distinctive.
If you’re concerned about security, choose doors that comply with Secured by Design standards for burglary resistance. Also look for glazed panels or sidelights that are made from toughened or laminated glass, as these offer greater resistance to breakage.
Evolution PVCu doors are crafted from unplasticised polyvinyl chloride (PVCu) and designed to mimic the appearance of timber doors. They’re available in a variety of styles and designs to complement any architectural style. You can even get a true wood grain finish, with different grain patterns across the surface for added character. Choose from a selection of styles by manufacturers like Southern Front Doors, GlassCraft, MAI and Therma-Tru. These doors are a great choice for homes that require durability and energy efficiency.
Glass
Adding windows to your entry door creates more natural light and enhances your home’s curb appeal. It also increases energy efficiency by decreasing your dependence on electrical lighting options. However, you’ll need to make sure you choose the right kind of window to ensure that your home’s privacy and security aren’t compromised.
You may want to consider frosted glass or a textured window insert that provides more privacy without sacrificing style. Another option is to install sidelights or a transom around your door to frame the window and create a more spacious look. Another important consideration is durability. If you choose tempered or laminated glass, your doors will resist damage from attempted break-ins as well as severe storms. They’ll also protect against dents and moisture damage that would otherwise require frequent repair or replacement.