Choosing the right exterior door for your home is crucial for both aesthetics and functionality. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about exterior doors, including the different types available, choosing the right material based on your needs, enhancing security features, improving energy efficiency, selecting a style that complements your home’s design, and maintaining your exterior door for longevity. Whether you’re a homeowner looking to upgrade your entryway or a builder considering options for new construction, this guide will help you make an informed decision about your exterior doors.
What Are the Different Types of Exterior Doors?
There are many different types of exterior doors as well as numerous styles, materials, and more to consider. The primary types of exterior doors include:
- Front entry doors – Your front entry doors are an important component of your home’s curb appeal and typically the primary way you enter and exit your home.
- Patio doors – These doors are typically designed as sliding glass doors or hinged French doors that are primarily made of glass. This allows for a seamless transition between your interior and exterior living spaces.
- Other entry doors – Your home may also have a side door or back door that looks and functions much like a front entry door. The main difference is the style, as these doors don’t contribute to your home’s curb appeal and are likely not a primary entryway.
How Do I Choose the Right Material for My Exterior Door?
After determining the type of exterior door you’d like to replace, your next step will be choosing the right material. For front entry doors and other entry doors, popular options include fiberglass, wood, and steel. You’ll want to consider the aesthetic, durability, and cost you’d prefer for your front entry doors to determine which material will better suit your needs. For patio doors, in addition to determining how energy efficient the glass portion of the door is, you’ll want to choose the frame material. Popular options include vinyl and aluminum. Your door replacement company can help you weigh your options based on your unique needs and preferences.
What Features Should I Look for in an Exterior Door for Security?
Security is another important element of any exterior door on your home. Most modern exterior doors come with advanced locking systems. When selecting a set of exterior doors, ensure it has a multi-point locking system for reliable home security.
How Can I Improve the Energy Efficiency of My Exterior Door?
Your exterior doors can make a big difference in the energy efficiency of your home. A drafty, deteriorating door will result in a lot of energy loss. Meanwhile, an energy-efficient exterior door will help make your home more comfortable. Make sure that any glass elements, whether a significant portion of your patio doors or a decorative element of your front entry doors, feature multiple panes of glass and insulating capabilities.
Additionally, the craftsmanship that goes into the door replacement will also contribute to its performance. You’ll want to choose a reputable door company that will uphold the highest standards of workmanship to ensure your exterior doors are properly secured and form an airtight seal when closed for enhanced thermal performance.
What Maintenance Is Required for Exterior Doors?
Today’s exterior doors require minimal maintenance. You’ll want to clean your doors from time to time to keep them looking their best. Additionally, you’ll want to inspect the door seals and frame each year to ensure they’re in good condition.
Get Your New Exterior Doors
At Integrity Roofing, Siding & Windows, we proudly offer and install exterior doors for homeowners throughout the greater Kansas City area. To learn more about choosing the right exterior doors for your home, contact us today.
