What Type of Entryway Door Material is Right For Your Home?

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Your home's entryway door is a very important part of the house itself; it adds style and character to the home, and of course provides security as well. There are many different materials from which to choose when it comes to entryway doors; note a few pros and cons of each so you can determine the best choice for your home.

1. Wood

Wood is very attractive and traditional, and it's easy to repaint on your own. However, wood may also be one of the least durable options! Solid wood can be prone to termites and other such pests, and the wood may also expand and then contract as it absorbs moisture and dries out. It's also easy to splinter or damage the door with a good swift kick; not only can this cause damage, but it can also mean an easier entryway for intruders.

If you must have the look of wood, consider a wood clad door. This is a vinyl or steel door frame with a wood overlay. This gives you the appearance of a wood door but the security and durability of steel or vinyl. Note, you will still need to maintain the wood overlay with regular repainting and other such work, but a wood clad door will usually mean less maintenance overall.

2. Fibreglass

A fibreglass door is very strong and durable, and can be painted or stained just about any colour. Usually a fibreglass door will also have an insulated centre so that it keeps out heat and cold. While fibreglass doors are very durable, note that you may not be able to repair any damage on your own if one should get nicked, scratched, or otherwise dented, as you can't simply sand down and then repaint fibreglass as you do wood.

3. Steel

Steel is probably the strongest of all options so it's good where you need added security. A steel door may also be insulated inside so that it doesn't conduct heat and cold during summer and winter. Steel is also very easy to clean and you can actually paint it yourself with a metal exterior paint, if you want to change its overall look. However, steel doors are very heavy and they may pull away from the door frame, so you may need to add support around the frame itself or ensure you buy the door with its own frame, and this can add to the expense of your new door.


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