Front entry doors are a great way to add curb appeal, security and energy efficiency to your home. However, it is important to choose a door that can withstand the Texas climate. Wood front doors can suffer from humidity levels, which may cause them to swell or shrink.
Fiberglass front doors can withstand the humid conditions of Texas, and they also offer the look of natural wood without the risk of warping or rotting. This makes them a popular choice for Dallas homeowners.
Curb Appeal
The door’s shape and color will set the stage for how your house looks from the street. It’s important to carefully consider the configuration, including whether you want a single front door or double entry doors and added elements such as sidelights or transoms.
Your choice of material matters, too. You can get a look that complements your home’s exterior paint and siding while also meeting your needs for energy efficiency and durability. Fiberglass and steel are especially sensible choices for homeowners in Dallas because they can withstand the hot summers and occasional severe weather conditions like hailstorms.
Investing in a new front door may not add as much to your property value as installing new replacement windows, but it can make a significant difference in the overall curb appeal of your home. Potential buyers will notice a fresh, updated entryway and be more inclined to ask to tour your home. It can help you sell your home faster, too.
Security
In addition to beauty and curb appeal, front doors provide a first line of defense against unwanted intruders. They also offer privacy and energy efficiency.
A secure, durable door is an important feature for a Dallas home. Consider adding a dead bolt, which is a low-cost, high-value security feature.
Steel doors are a great option for homeowners who want durability, security, and energy efficiency. They resist warping and cracking and do not expand or contract with temperature changes, making them a good choice for the Texas climate. Additionally, they are less prone to pests than wood doors and offer a variety of design options.
Fiberglass doors are another popular front door material. They are resistant to rot, warping, and cracking and can be made to look like a wide range of different wood species. They also provide an excellent level of insulation. According to the 2024 Lifestory Research America’s Most Trusted Front Entry Door Study, Pella ranked first in consumer brand trust for front doors.
Durability
The front door is more than a first impression, it’s a gateway into your home and serves as the barrier against weather. That’s why new entry doors are engineered to be durable, sturdier and more able to withstand what life throws at them.
Steel and fiberglass doors are made of materials that don’t rust or warp with time or inclement weather. They’re also more energy efficient than traditional wood doors.
Fiberglass can be modified to look like different types of materials so that you don’t have to sacrifice your aesthetic if you want the durability of fiberglass. They can also be painted with an enamel coating for easy maintenance. Wood, on the other hand, tends to absorb moisture, which can cause it to swell and become difficult to open and close. It’s important to weigh your priorities and consult with professionals to find the right door for your home.
Maintenance
When it comes to front doors, a little bit of regular maintenance can go a long way. Wipe the door gently a few times a year with a soft cloth and gentle soap diluted in water. This will keep dust and dirt from scratching or scuffing the surface. Also consider having the door refinished every two years to add a protective clear coat that shields it from UV rays and moisture changes.
Entryways are subject to a lot of abuse on both the inside and outside–anxious dogs and vengeful cats can scratch them, while pests can gnaw or chew their way through. A Dallas handyman can help repair minor issues like loose or squeaky hinges, but if the damage is widespread it may be more cost-effective to replace the entire entryway. Foggy windows are another common issue–it’s usually a sign that the seal between double panes has broken. A replacement can solve this problem and boost the energy efficiency of your home.