Your home’s exterior door serves multiple purposes. It provides privacy and security, protects your home from pests and inclement weather, and its appearance is a crucial part of a house's exterior design. If you need a replacement, there are numerous factors to take into consideration.

What to Think About When Picking a New Front Door

1. Material

Replacement doors typically come in three choices: wood, fiberglass, and steel. Wood is charming, but it tends to be more expensive and requires periodic repainting and refinishing. These doors are heavy and durable and easy to repair.

Fiberglass is well-insulated, requires little-to-no maintenance, and comes in a variety of designs. If it sustains damage, it is difficult to repair, but it is a smart choice for the budget-conscious.

Steel is heavy and offers the best security, but is easy to dent. It must be painted and treated to prevent rust, but overall, it’s an economical choice for many homebuyers.

2. Color

Your exterior door can be any color you wish, but making a strategic choice can impact your home’s curb appeal and resale value. A neutral shade such as white, black, or charcoal allows your replacement door to match a variety of siding colors and architectural designs. However, a pop of color might be pleasantly eye-catching. Try holding paint samples against your house before choosing a more bold color, such as dark red or blue. 

3. Window Panels

Thinking about buying a door with window panels? Many homeowners do out of a preference for the look and because they let in natural light. However, they are less secure—especially if the windows are too near the knob—since glass is a comparatively easy material to break.

If you want to compromise, some doors feature a small, narrow panel near the top where frosted or privacy glass can be housed.

If you’re looking for an eco-friendly and energy-efficient door for your home, look no farther than Empire Windows in Delaware, OH. This local company has been serving central Ohio for more than 50 years, specializing in windows, siding, and entry doors. Aside from a wide selection of these products, their professional team is experienced at installation. Call (614) 766-1400 to request a consultation or visit them online to learn more about their offerings.