I need a new front door. Mine is old, damaged, pretty dirty, and the doorknob keeps falling off. Nice, right? The last owner probably never replaced it in the 30 years he lived in the house, and it is definitely time. But now comes the hard part – choosing a new one. The front door is the focal point of the house and it’s kind of a big decision, and there are a million front door ideas out there.
As far as curb appeal goes, front doors are super important because they’re the focal point of your home’s exterior. They have a huge impact on the overall look of your home, and the style and colour you choose will impact everything else.
The good thing about getting a new front door is that it’s a great financial investment (home improvement-wise). While they’re very expensive to purchase and install, it’s generally agreed that a new steel front door is the number one source of remodeling return on investment, with fiberglass front doors following closely behind.
If you’re like me and trying to choose a new front door, consider the following:
Style and Aesthetics
- Match Your Home’s Architecture: The style of your front door should complement the architectural style of your home. For example, a traditional wooden door suits a classic or historic home, while a sleek, modern door with glass panels might be better for contemporary architecture.
- Personal Taste and Curb Appeal: Choose a door that reflects your personal taste and enhances your home’s curb appeal. The door can be a statement piece that adds color or an elegant entrance that blends with the exterior.
Material
- Wood: Offers a classic, warm look with customizable options. It requires more maintenance to protect against the elements but provides a high-end look. I’m considering a wood front door for my own house.
- Steel: Known for its strength and security, steel doors are durable and energy-efficient. They tend to be more affordable than wood but can dent and scratch.
- Fiberglass: Combines the appearance of wood with greater durability and less maintenance. It’s energy-efficient, resistant to warping and rotting, and works well in harsh or humid climates.
- Aluminum: Customizable and durable, with a finish that resists rust and weathering. Aluminum doors often come with an insulated core and are a good choice for extreme weather conditions.
Front Door Security
- Locks and Hardware: Look for doors with strong, high-quality locks. Consider smart locks for added security and convenience.
- Construction: The door’s construction, including how it’s framed and the materials used, can affect its resistance to forced entry.
Energy Efficiency
- Insulation: An energy-efficient door will help keep your home comfortable and reduce heating and cooling costs. Look for doors with good insulation values (indicated by their R-value) and those that are ENERGY STAR® certified.
- Weather Stripping: Ensure the door comes with effective weather stripping to seal out drafts.
Additional Features
- Windows (Lites): Doors with windows can add style and bring natural light into your home but consider privacy and energy efficiency.
- Color and Finish: Choosing the right color and finish can significantly impact the door’s appearance and its maintenance needs.
Which of these front door ideas is your favourite?
Photos via Pinterest
