Entry doors need to be tough enough to be able to face the outdoor elements such as wind, rain, and snow – all while still looking presentable. Older doors are made out of wood or wood veneer, which warps and cracks after years of being exposed to the elements. If you are looking for a new front door, there are so many available options nowadays. There are newer wood doors that resist weather and elements better than older versions, as well as fiberglass and metal ones that appear as wood but offer better security and are cheaper.
Detecting Damage
Replacing a door may sometimes just mean switching out one door for another. Sometimes you may need to gut and replace the door framing which includes door jabs and threshold. Even if the existing door frame looks okay, the wall studs it’s nailed to can bend and move so the door isn’t in right. This can make it hard to open and close the door.
Material Matters
Many manufacturers offer an abundance of door styles. You can also find a broad selection at home centers, lumberyards, and door dealers. You can also design your own door.
Wood Doors
Wood doors are the most common ones you’ll find. They are known for their beauty and versatility. Wood doors come in cherry, oak, walnut, fir, pine, and maple. You can also choose from paint-grade doors such as western hemlock or pine.
Steel Doors
Steel doors are great if you are looking for security and durability. Steel is stronger than wood or fiberglass doors, and there isn’t a chance of warping or cracking. If there are ever and dents, they are easily fixable. Steel doors are also cost efficient. They are cheaper than wood or fiberglass. All steel doors have an inner frame made out of wood to provide strength. Most steel doors are also covered with a polyester finish that will need repainting eventually. These doors also come as a part of a pre-hung system, which can be very convenient.
Fiberglass-Composite Doors
Fiberglass-composite doors are maintenance-free and tough against the elements. They are known to be a good choice for humid or harsh climates. These doors give the appearance of wood with texturing similar to how a real wooden door would look and feel. They can be stained to match cherry, oak, walnut and other woods. They are another cheap option if you are looking to stay on a budget when it comes to switching your front door.
Aluminum Doors
Aluminum doors have an insulation core and are covered in metal around it. They are custom built to fit your door opening, and are exclusively sold through door dealers. They have an enamel finish so they don’t ever need a coat of paint and won’t rust. They are on the more expensive side, though. They are the next expensive option after solid wood.
Contact J&J Home Improvement
J&J Home Improvement can help you choose a front door that fits your needs! Contact us today by calling 508-436-6374 or fill out our contact form.