A Quick Guide to High Quality Front Doors
Many manufacturers provide numerous door styles. You can also find an extensive selection at door dealers, home centers, and lumberyards.
You can design your very own front door if you like. There are manufacturers that allow you to specify the types of glass options and panels you like. However, you need to place special orders for these doors and wait for them to be delivered to you in two to eight weeks.
The third option that you have is to find a local millwork or woodworker shop to build high quality front doors based on your specifications. The only downside of this option, however, is the money and time involved.
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Common Materials used for Front Doors
Probably the most crucial decision you need to make is the material used for the door. Many doors today combine different materials, such as steel and fiberglass doors with wooden frames. However, the chosen surface material has the most effect on the appearance, security, price, and durability.
Aluminum Doors
Inotherm front doors made from aluminum use a metal skin-covered insulation core. What makes aluminum versions different from other door systems you can find today is the fact that these are sold and offered exclusively by dealers. Every aluminum door is custom-made according to your opening.
Today’s manufacturers provide all kinds of choices. These front doors are available in dozens of colors and styles with wood-grain or smooth finishes.
Aluminum doors feature a baked-on enamel finish and this is the reason why these don’t rust and don’t require painting. This is also why it is common to see these doors backed by 20-year warranties. You can even match the style and color of your door with your aluminum storm door. However, these benefits aren’t cheap since aluminum doors are considered as the most expensive choices next to solid wood.
Fiberglass-Composite Doors
These doors are maintenance-free and tough and are the smart choice if you are living in an area with humid or harsh climates. Fiberglass-composite doors resemble the appearance of wood with their wood-grain texturing. These can also be stained to match cherry, walnut, oak, and other wood varieties.
