Articles | Understanding Exterior Door

Exterior doors are more than just practical. They are also a great way to give style and design to a home. Exterior doors come in all different shapes and sizes, from the standard manufactured home door to large, intricately designed custom doors. When a person decides to build a new home, or a home owner wants to replace an old exterior door, they will be faced with a range of considerations including cost, installation, material, design and more.

When most people think doors, they think wood. Wood is long lasting, durable and available in such a range of colors and designs that most people can find exactly what they are looking for in a wooden door. Paints, veneers and stains can be applied to different types of wood to get a custom look at a good price. Wooden doors often cost more than other materials, however they are easy to repair if they become damaged, which often outweighs the costs. Wood doors will last longer if they are installed in a protected area such as under an awning or beneath the roof of a porch.

If a wooden door just won't withstand the climate in a certain area, then homeowners can opt for something a little more durable such as fiberglass. When fiberglass was first developed it had a look that was similar to plastic. However, modern fiberglass has been design to simulate the style of a wooden door, which is much more attractive to most homeowners. Besides its ability to withstand weather, fiberglass insulates well and conserves energy.

Aluminum exterior doors are also available, but this material is more commonly used by businesses, warehouses and office buildings. Aluminum is popular for such a commercial use because it does not rust or corrode and actually becomes stronger with time. Also, aluminum has a unique modern style that people generally like.

However, when it comes to popularity, steel doors are still the most widespread. This is probably in part because steel is the least expensive material for door construction. Steel doors are most often used for commercial buildings, because of its low cost and virtually non-existent maintenance costs, but home owners have also noticed the benefits of steel doors and are installing them in their homes as well.

Materials are not the only consideration when it comes to exterior doors however, style and design is just as important to achieve the overall architectural style of their home. Styles available include ranch, colonial, Victorian, split level, cottage, craftsman and more. These styles achieve style with a combination of strategic use of glass windows, carved out designs, color and size.

With so many options to choose from, home owners will have no problem finding the perfect exterior door at a price they can afford.