The doors on your home tell the story of its style and functionality. Front entry doors elevate curb appeal while providing security, and garage doors protect vehicles and enhance design continuity. Patio doors offer unobstructed views, and sliding doors add elegance to modern homes. And when Decatur experiences its share of stormy weather, hurricane protection doors keep the elements out and your family safe.
Curb Appeal
The front door is often the first impression guests have of your home. A clean and inviting entryway can make or break the overall look of your house. A quick power wash to remove dust, dirt, and cobwebs is an easy way to boost curb appeal.
A fresh coat of paint is another low-cost DIY project that carries high impact. Choose a color that complements your home’s exterior or highlights your front-door hardware. Consider choosing a bold hue like Cactus Green 2035-20 or Hawthorne Yellow HC-4 to draw attention.
Other front-door upgrades include decorative glass, a transom, or sidelights to let in more natural light and add interest. For privacy without sacrificing natural light, opt for frosted or raindrop glass instead of clear. Seasonal decorations like wreaths and floral accents can enhance your home’s visual appeal. When a full-scale renovation isn’t in the cards, dress up your stoop with a removable decal for a pop of color.
Security
Burglars are less likely to break into your home if they can’t get past your front door. But a solid front door is just one part of an impenetrable home security system. You can also add devices to improve your security, such as peepholes or door viewers that allow you to see who’s at the door without opening the door. Security strike plates are another improvement, as they distribute force evenly when someone tries to kick in the door.
Besides providing superior curb appeal, new front doors can be more energy efficient than older models. By preventing heat loss in winter and keeping cool air in during summer, they can help you cut down on your utility bills. Choose a fiberglass or steel entry door to enjoy these benefits, along with enhanced security and weather resistance. These doors are incredibly durable, so they can stand up to years of use without deteriorating. Moreover, most of them come with warranties, so you can rest assured that they’ll last for many years to come.
Energy Efficiency
In addition to providing a classic look, front doors should also be energy efficient. The insulating properties of your door should help keep your home cool during the summer and warm during the winter. This will reduce your energy bill and make for a more comfortable living space.
While wood doors offer decent insulative properties, the best choice is an insulated steel or fiberglass door that boasts an R-value between R-5 and R-6. The insulated core of these types of exterior doors is wrapped in a steel shell, which helps with insulation and provides a good seal that prevents drafts.
For added efficiency, consider a dual-pane glass option that features an airspace filled with argon or another inert gas to help with insulating properties. Also, a low-emissivity coating can help minimize heat loss. These features can be found in many on-trend fiberglass and metal options. If you’re looking for an even more dependable energy-efficient option, choose one with the ENERGY STAR label to ensure that it meets high standards of efficiency.
Maintenance
The front door is often the first thing people see and is often the focal point of the home. It is also a significant part of your security and energy efficiency system. Keeping your front door in good condition protects these systems and helps preserve the beauty of your home.
Front doors are exposed to a variety of environmental conditions, causing them to deteriorate over time. Inappropriate maintenance can cause rot, warping, and structural damage. Proper care and upkeep prevents these issues and allows the front door to function effectively for years.
The type of material your front door is made from determines its specific maintenance needs. For example, wood doors require routine cleaning and may need major care like sanding or painting every few years. Steel front doors need regular cleaning to avoid rusting. The frequency of these cleanings depends on your climate; once a month is suitable in most areas. Front doors need a light coat of lithium grease or silicone spray to maintain smooth operation and minimize friction.