7 Things You Need to Know Before Buying Front Doors

Are you looking to buy a new front door? 

As one of the features that you can see externally and internally, you need to choose a front door that gives you a sense of security while protecting your interior from chaotic weather, debris, and extreme temperatures. And don't forget the curb appeal!

With so many considerations surrounding your home's entryway, we address some of the top questions about buying front doors.

7 Things You Should Know Before Buying Front Doors

Let's open the door on this topic and investigate the various entry door options. We want to help you make an informed decision on your home's entry.

1. What Type of Door Materials Are There?
2. What Type of Front Door Styles Are There?
3. Does My Front Door Have to Match My Garage Door? 
4. How to Measure For a Front Door Replacement?
5. How to Prevent a Front Door From Being Kicked In?
6. Can Front Doors Open Out?
7. How to Block the Sun From My Front Door?

1. What Type of Door Materials Are There?

Generally, manufacturers make front doors in wood, steel, or fiberglass. Let's look at each material separately:

Wood

Wooden front doors are the creme de la creme of front entry doors. The authentic wood grain is warm and welcoming, and many old homes wouldn't feel authentic without one. The cost of a wooden door depends on the wood you choose - Cherry, Hickory, Knotty Pine, Mahogany, Maple, Pine, White Oak, and more.

However, wooden doors do require maintenance so that they don't become susceptible to moisture and weather abuse, not to mention anxious pups who scratch the entrance to bits. The other thing about wooden doors is that they have lower insulating properties than other door materials unless they have an energy-efficient core. 

Steel

Steel doors are the most robust and most durable doors available on the market. If you're looking for a sense of security, and a low maintenance door that's high on the energy-efficiency scale, then a steel door is a great choice. All that and it's also affordable and usually offers a comprehensive warranty. 

Steel doors cannot be trimmed and usually come in standard sizes, so if you have weird angles or door requirements, then wood may be a better choice. On the downside, a steel door that gets dented, damaged, or experiences hard use may be susceptible to rust and can be challenging to repair. 

Fiberglass

Fiberglass doors are probably your most durable option and are less likely to fade, dent, rusk, crack, or scratch. Their structural superiority doesn't end there and these doors are moisture resistant too. As a low-maintenance option, it's also nice to know that fiberglass doors are highly energy-efficient and customizable. So if you want that wood grain look, many manufacturers can create a front fiberglass door that suits the look you're after. 

Composite doors are made with a selection of materials. They offer a cheap option but are not suitable for front door use. Steer clear of lightweight interior composite doors for your exterior entrance. 

2. What Type of Front Door Styles Are There?

Front door styles should suit your home's architectural style. But it can also speak to your character and personal preferences. Finding a balance between period appropriateness and owner personality will result in a door you love to see every time you arrive home. 

After researching your home style, you can customize your door with various design options, transom windows, sidelights, and glass inserts. Colors also allow you to make a significant and bold statement. 

3. Does My Front Door Have to Match My Garage Door? 

While there are no rules, it's essential to consider the curb appeal of your home. If the garage door is facing the street, then it may be in your best interest to consider a front door design that suits your shutters and garage doors. By enhancing the visual representation of your doors, you increase the home value and overall aesthetic. 

A cohesive design doesn't mean identical doors, though. But selecting the same material, color, or window inserts can bring some unity. 

4. How to Measure For a Front Door Replacement?

If you're replacing your existing door, measure the old one. If you widen the opening or add a side feature, you will have to remeasure the door size, frame width, and rough opening. 

For a simple replacement, measure the width and height of your door, rounding them up to full inches. Consult with a professional or rely on your door installer expert to ensure the measurement is spot on. 

5. How to Prevent a Front Door From Being Kicked In?

Besides opting for a door with a solid core and structure, there are a few other things you can do to reinforce your door. 

• Upgrade to multi-point locks
• Replace the strike plate and reinforce the hinges
• Reinforcing the door jamb (frame)
• Improve glass security - add a security grill and make sure the glass is laminated

6. Can Front Doors Open Out?

Front doors can be customized in a variety of ways, and this includes inswing or outswing options. Here are the pros and cons:

Outswing doors

• Pros: 
  • Typically more resistant to high wind, driving rain, and water resistance due to the pressure against door seals
  • Not easy to force open from the outside
• Cons:
  • It could be challenging to open if there is heavy snowfall

Inswing doors

•  Pros:
  • It feels like the natural direction for an entry door 
  • Allows room for a storm door
•  Cons:
  • Easier for forced entry
  • Less weather-resistant than an outswing door

7. How to Block the Sun From My Front Door?

When the weather is sweltering, you need your home to be a calm haven. There are many ways that you can protect your door's finish from the sun.

• Add an overhang or awning
• Plant a tree to throw some shade on your front door during the summer seasons
• Paint your door with a cooler heat-resistant paint color

Are You Ready to Buy a New Front Door?

Buying a good-quality front door is worth the investment. With so many style options, it's best to speak to a professional to consider the overall appearance of your home and the unique needs that it presents. 

Whatever you decide, consider your local climate, security concerns, and energy efficiency. Second, think about trends and personality. Finding the perfect door can take some time. By doing your research and educating yourself on the various options, you can select a door system that will last for many years.