Front Doors

Frequently Asked Questions about Front Doors

The front door of your home is tasked with providing security and energy efficiency. It’s also the first thing guests see when they enter your home, so it needs to make a strong first impression. Here are some common questions that homeowners ask when the time comes to buy a new front door: 

What are the Best Materials for Front Doors?

Front doors are typically manufactured using wood, steel, aluminum, fiberglass, and composite materials. Each type offers certain benefits that might fit your home best. Wood brings traditional beauty and plenty of customization choices, while fiberglass and steel doors are durable, strong, and provide top-notch security. Browse our collection of doors to see which benefits are right for your home and budget.

What Role Does the Front Door Play in Home Security? 

Your front door is a primary component of your home’s security apparatus. Using reinforced frames, multi-point locking systems, deadbolt mechanisms, and impact-resistant manufacturing and materials, the front door is the main entry point of the home and a common target for thieves to expose. That’s why it’s so vital to install a door that can stand up to break-ins and provide the level of protection to keep you, your family, and belongings safe and secure. 

Which Material is the Most Energy Efficient Option?

When it comes to energy efficiency, fiberglass and insulated steel doors are your top choices as they are equipped with insulated cores and weatherstripping to decrease heat loss. Find a door with a low U-factor rating and an Energy Star certification, that way you know you’ve made the right choice. 

What is the Standard Size for a Front Door? 

The standard front door size is thirty-six inches wide, eighty inches tall and approximately 1¾

Inches thick. But doors are also available in sizes that cater to unique entryways and modern architecture styles. 

What is the Best Way to Maintain a Front Door? 

The best method for maintaining your front door depends on the type of material you’ve chosen. Some are more high maintenance than others. Fiberglass and steel doors should be wiped down periodically while wood may require sealing and refinishing every two to five years. The best thing to do is routinely inspect the weatherstripping, locks, and hinges to keep the door functioning properly.

Do Front Doors Come Equipped with Decorative Glass Panels? 

There are many front door options that are equipped with glass panels. You can choose from decorative, frosted, or textured style choices that provide for natural light while preserving your home’s privacy. These glass panels are typically double or triple pane for increased insulation and security. 

What is the Average Lifespan of a Front Door? 

The average lifespan of any front door relies on the type of material used, the type of climate and level of exposure to the elements, and whether or not routine maintenance has been applied in protecting the door. Most doors can last as long as twenty to thirty years when cared for properly and maintained in the prescribed method best for that type of material. Simply put, the more you care for your door, the longer you can extend its life.