Whether you’ve been planning to put in a new entry door on your home, or you’re like us, stuck with the task because of a strong wind that damaged your door, you’ve probably realized that selecting the right entry door for your home is an important task. Not only is an entry door your chance to make a good impression, but it’s got to be tough—tough enough to handle the worst Wisconsin weather. Entry doors take a lot of beatings in the way of wind, snow (thanks Wisconsin winters!), pounding rains, ice, sleet, and even attempts to breach the security of your door. So what should you look for in a new entry door?
How to make sure you buy the right door
Buying the most energy-efficient, or most beautiful door, means nothing if you don’t buy a door that works with your entry way. If you’re replacing your existing entry door with another door the same size, measure the door to make sure you buy the right size. Next determine if the door swings in or out, which is called an inswing or outswing. Last, determine how much of a window/lite you want in your door, and if you have a sidelite (or two), which is a pane of glass next to your door. If you don’t want to measure or select the door, or you want to install a larger door, contact a contractor to choose and install your entry door.
If you’re thinking of buying a larger door, or adding more sidelites/sidelights, contact a contractor. They can handle all the reframing that comes with installing a new, and larger door.
Wood vs. Fiberglass vs. Steel
Once you’ve measured your door, determined whether you have an inswing or outswing, and whether you have a sidelite/sidelight to shop for, you’ll inevitably have to decide on the material of your door. The most common material doors are made of is wood, fiberglass and steel.
• Wood doors can be divided into two categories: solid wood and solid wood core. Solid wood core doors have a foam insulation in the middle, giving them an insulating value of R-5. Solid wood doors are strong and sturdy, and give you a beautiful first impression and added curb appeal. Wood doors do need regular maintenance over the life of the door, so expect to do some refinishing work or to hire a professional to keep your door looking gorgeous. Wood doors are typically more expensive than fiberglass or steel doors.
• Fiberglass doors tend to be energy efficient, built with an insulating foam core that can withstand whatever our Wisconsin weather can throw at it. Fiberglass doors have a wood-grain appearance, but won’t crack or warp over the life of the door. Fiberglass doors are very affordable, with pricing usually starting in the $200 to $300 range.
• Steel doors are strong and durable and can take anything—-anything—-our Wisconsin weather throws at it. Steel doors also have a foam core for energy efficiency. They are not prone to warping or cracking, and the cost is very reasonable, often falling in the same price range as a fiberglass door.
What to Look for in a Entry Door
The door you choose depends on what you are looking for:
• Appearance,
• Security,
• Energy Efficiency,
• Amount of maintenance needed.
For example, if you are looking for a beautiful, secure door, and are willing to invest in a bit of maintenance over the life of your entry door, a wood door may be your choice. For a door with a wood-grain look and a high energy-efficiency rating, consider a fiberglass entry door. Want a strong, durable and energy-efficient door? Steel doors fit the bill. Remember, you can make fiberglass and steel doors secure by installing them tightly, and with secure hardware. If you have any questions about entry doors and installation, or want to get a free quote for a new door and installation, contact Conger Construction. They’ve got the knowledge and experience with entry doors and entry door installation to answer any questions you might have.