Your exterior front door affects the overall look and curb appeal of your home, but selecting a door goes beyond looks. A quality door that is made from durable material and is well constructed will stand up better to the outdoor elements, including rain, temperature changes and direct sunlight. Another consideration is security since the front door is a potential entry point for burglars. Balancing cost with quality and durability gives you the best value for your door remodeling budget.
Calculate how much you plan to spend on your exterior door purchase. Determine your preferred price range and the absolute maximum you will spend to guide your door selection.
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Measure the existing door's height and width to determine the size you need. Round up to the nearest inch. Keep these measurements in mind as you browse the exterior door options as some may come in limited sizes. Others may require a special order for certain sizes, which adds to the overall cost and time.
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View your home from a distance, focusing on the existing front door and how it fits into the overall curb appeal. Identify the features you like and dislike about the existing door. Use this exercise to help you narrow down new door options.
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Determine if you want a solid door or one with glass panels. If you choose a door with glass, you'll have the option of a small window at the top, a larger window that covers the top half of the door or a full panel of glass that covers most of the door. Consider the options for frosted or etched glass and bars or grids for decorative division of the glass area.
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Narrow down the material type you want. Wood gives a natural look and doesn't usually dent, but they cost more, require more maintenance, and won't hold to moisture as well as other materials. Steel doors are strong and more affordable. They require little maintenance and are energy efficient but they are susceptible to denting and rusting on scratches. Fiberglass falls in the middle of the price range, is low maintenance, and dents less than steel but may crack with a hard impact.
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Compare the detail work and overall style of each door option. Choose a door that matches your style preferences and fits in with the overall look of your home's exterior.
Create an artistic focus to your home exterior by remodeling your existing exterior door or replacing it. Impressive exterior doors, especially front...
