What to Know Before You Replace Your Front Door
Before You Replace Your Front Door
The front door is a vital component of your home. It lets you welcome your friends and family, protects you from the scorching sun, frigid cold and would-be intruders, and contributes to the overall curb appeal of your property. It also performs the vital task of keeping outside air where it belongs and ensuring your indoor space is comfortable and energy efficient. If your entry door has reached the end of its lifespan, it may be time to consider a replacement.
A new front door is a relatively inexpensive way to improve the look of your home, and it can make a great impression on guests and potential homebuyers. A professional can help you choose a door that complements your home’s style and fits the needs of your unique living space. In addition, a new front door can add value to your home and boost its appeal for prospective buyers, especially if you’re planning to put your house on the market soon.
When it comes to replacing your front door replacement, there are several factors to consider, such as maintenance requirements based on climate conditions, security features and energy efficiency. A local door expert can provide you with a wide selection of options and recommend a solution based on your needs and budget.
What to Know Before You Replace Your Front Door
The most obvious sign that it’s time to replace your front door is a draft. While a little draft can be dealt with using weather stripping, it’s best to get a new door that will keep you and your family comfortable and energy efficient season after season.
Another sign is when your door frame or casing is warped or rotting, which could lead to the leaking of water and cold air into your home. A rotting, warped or damaged door can also be inviting to insects, rodents and mold and mildew. A new door can help prevent this from happening and improve your home’s resale value.
Many of today’s front doors are made from a combination of materials to provide strength, durability and beauty. Fiberglass and steel doors, for example, are durable and come in a variety of styles to match your home’s architecture. They’re easy to maintain, and they can be finished with a paint or stain for added protection from the elements. They also have the advantage of being more affordable than wood doors.
Wood doors need regular maintenance to protect them from the sun’s harsh UV rays. They’re susceptible to fading, warping and rotting, so it’s important to treat them with an effective UV blocker. Wood doors can also be difficult to keep insulated, but modern steel and fiberglass doors feature polyurethane foam insulation that keeps your house warm in the winter and cool in the summer. A new energy-efficient entry door can save you money on your energy bills and reduce the strain on your heating and cooling systems. An ENERGY STAR label is a good indication that the door meets certain energy efficiency standards set by the US Department of Energy.