When you move to a new home, door replacement is one of the main things on the agenda. And when it comes time for this, we can’t help but be overwhelmed by all door options. There are quite a few different materials that doors can be made out of and this list will cover five door-building materials that homeowners have their choice from.
1) Aluminum Doors
Most people think that aluminum has to be used as a thin siding material, but this isn’t so. Door manufacturing companies offer a wide variety of door styles using aluminum. You can get solid or designed doors in single or double door style with clear or tinted windows and even door and side lites.
2) Fiberglass Doors
These doors can be very strong and durable with a thinner profile than wood or steel. Fiberglass doors also require no maintenance for the exterior of the door so they will always look new. When you consider this along with their warranty, it’s easy to see why these doors are becoming more popular every year. Their downside is that they aren’t as energy efficient as other door alternatives.
3) Steel Doors
These doors were very popular in the 1970s and 1980s but have since fallen out of favor. However, if you want a heavy-duty door that will last for decades without any exterior maintenance, you should consider a steel door. Overall they are a good choice if you aren’t worried about energy efficiency because they aren’t rated well. They also tend to be more money than other types of doors.
4) Composite Doors
These doors have been around for a relatively short period of time but they offer many benefits over other door alternatives. They are made from a mixture of wood fibers and recycled plastic. This combination gives them a very natural-looking style. However, there is virtually no maintenance required for the door surface so it stays in perfect condition without any painting, staining, or sealing. One downside to using composite door materials is that they can warp if they aren’t properly insulated.
5) Wood Door
They have been the standard for entry door replacement for generations. However, this doesn’t mean that wood doors are always your best choice. If you want a door that will expand and contract with changing temperatures, then wood is always going to be your best option. The main reason why homeowners don’t like wood doors anymore is because of their maintenance requirements. You’ll need to paint or stain them every one or two years depending on the finish you choose and if your home ever experiences heavy rainfall, you’ll need to sand and re-stain the door.
Conclusion
There is no right or wrong choice for entry door replacement. You should consider your budget along with how you want your doors to look when making a final decision. If you need more information on doors for your home, contact a professional contractor in your area.
