Front doors are the first thing guests see when arriving at your home. They should be welcoming and warm, while providing ironclad protection.
New exterior doors are made from harder, stronger materials and include advanced insulating technology that can reduce your energy costs. They also feature multi-point locking systems to prevent forced entry.
Wrought Iron
Wrought iron has a long history of use for gates, doors, and fencing. Today, however, the term “wrought iron” is often used to describe any metal piece with a traditional wrought iron look, regardless of the type of metal used. Mild steel that has been cold bent into shape or cast iron pieces that have been painted black are both frequently mistaken for wrought iron.
Wrought metal is created by heating and hammering iron into specific shapes and designs. It contains a large amount of carbon, which makes it malleable when heated. This gives wrought iron its unique ability to be twisted, hammered, or rolled into many different shapes without breaking.
To tell if an iron piece is truly wrought, professionals can perform a simple spark test or break test. True wrought iron will produce red sparks, while steel produces white sparks. The test results will also show if the iron is tempered, which means it has been heated and cooled repeatedly to create a stronger, more durable metal.
Fiberglass
When it comes to front doors, the material is just as important as the style. Top-quality fiberglass entry doors are durable and will not warp, rot, shrink, or swell like traditional wood doors can. They can also be repainted to keep up with the changing colors of your home’s exterior.
Fiberglass, also known as glass-fiber reinforced plastic or FRP, is a composite material made of structural glass fibers bonded with a thermoset polymer matrix. The glass fibers may be randomly arranged in a sheet called chopped strand mat, or they may be woven into a unidirectional roving. The directional directionality of stiffness and strength can be more efficiently controlled in a unidirectional roving than in chopped strand mat or woven glass cloth.
Unlike most other front door materials, fiberglass does not dent or rust, making it an excellent choice for coastal areas. It is also a great energy efficient choice as it offers higher R-values than most wood door styles of similar sizes, keeping your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
Wood
Wood doors add elegance and beauty to any home regardless of its architectural style. They also provide an additional level of security, as they are harder to break into than a fiberglass or steel door. A solid wood door can weigh up to 150 pounds, making it a difficult target for intruders.
There are many different types of wooden doors for sale, including knotty alder and mahogany. Alder is a good choice for homeowners on a budget, and it also takes stains well. It has a distinctive grain and peachy undertones, and it is durable. However, it is not as resistant to humidity or harsh weather as some other types of wooden front doors.
Cherry is another popular type of wooden front door. Its color ranges from pinkish brown to deep reddish brown and it has a tight, distinctive grain. It is moisture-resistant and insect-resistant, and it can be refinished easily. It is a beautiful option for a traditional, modern, or Victorian home and it will last a long time when properly cared for.
Aluminum
Your front door is the first thing people see and can have a big impact on your home’s curb appeal. It’s also one of the most important investments you can make for your home’s security and energy efficiency. With so many options available, it’s important to understand the different materials and styles before making a decision.
Steel front doors are a popular option for homeowners because they offer security, durability, and a sleek appearance. They are also inexpensive and easy to maintain. However, they can rust in humid climates and do not provide good insulating properties.
Fiberglass is a good choice for homeowners who want an all-around door that offers energy efficiency, security, and style. They’re resistant to rust and denting, and they come in various colors, shapes, and textures to match your home’s decor. They can be painted or stained, and they’re often insulated with foam cores to help prevent heat loss. They’re also lightweight.