Entrance doors are an essential part of any property – not only are they one of the first things that visitors to your home see, they work to protect your home against both intruders and the elements. On top of this, they’re essential for aesthetic appeal and can be used to improve lighting and ventilation. When choosing an entry door, there are a number of considerations that you need to make to ensure that you’ve made the right choice.
- Aesthetics
The appearance of your door is an essential consideration. When determining what colour and style will work best for your home, think about the size of the property, how old it is, and what style it has been built in. Think about your own personal wants, too – some homeowners want a door that will make a bold statement, whereas others are looking for something a little more understated. Can’t find what you’re looking for? Don’t be afraid to go custom!
- Budget
The cost of entrance doors is extremely varied – timber tends to be the most expensive option, whereas aluminium tends to be a lower cost alternative. If you’re working with a limited budget, keep in mind that this will considerably reduce your options. Think about what features you’re willing to compromise on and what are your absolute must-haves, then determine what doors will fit into your budget.
- Insulation
Did you know that a poorly fitted or maintained door will compromise the energy efficiency of your home? Poor thermal insulation means that heat is lost from your home during winter and that hot air can more easily penetrate through in summer. Your heater and air conditioner will have to work harder to keep the space more comfortable, which ends up costing you money. Don’t forget to also consider sound insulation when making your selection.
- Maintenance
Who wants to spend hours with upkeeping their entry door? Keep in mind that some materials, such as timber, require more maintenance than others. Glass is a very low-maintenance material, but it does require regular cleaning to keep it looking its best. Many homeowners opt for timber despite its higher maintenance requirements, just ensure that you have a care and maintenance guide to help you keep it in tiptop condition.
- Security
As a main entry point into your home, entrance doors need to provide an adequate level of security. While a high-quality lock is certainly important, if the door’s materials, hinges, and/or frame are weak, the best lock in the world isn’t going to keep an intruder out – they'll just force their way through. You should also think about design features that will improve security, such as shatterproof glass and integrated security screens.
- Sizing
Many homeowners are surprised to learn that they actually have three choices when it comes to the size of their entry doors – single or double, and then whether there are window side panels (and these can be present on either one or both sides of the door). This choice will generally be determined by the size of your existing doorway, but if you’re happy to deal with some construction work any of these combinations will be possible.
Making the right decision is essential for getting the most out of your investment, which is why you should consider each of the above points when choosing entrance doors for your home. If you’re dealing with some unique circumstances or just want some more advice before making your final choice, ensure that you reach out to a door specialist – they will be able to point you in the right direction and offer suggestions that tick all your boxes.
