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As we know, in life, first impressions- our appearance, the way we speak, etc- are a major factor in how people remember us. The same is true for our homes. Those shrubs that need to be cut, broken shutters, or cracked light will be remembered consciously or subconsciously by our guests even if they don’t mention it. Bear in mind it’s the only part of the house that people will stand and stare at very close up for several minutes at a time, so quality and finish are important. Likewise, passersby will form an opinion of who you are by what your house looks like.

If you’re in the market for a new front door here are some things you’ll want to know:

1. There are (5) main types of doors: wood, steel, aluminum, and a fiberglass-composite mixture. Each have perform well in different areas.
2. Wood is often the most affordable and can be easily stained or painted. However, without proper maintenance, wood doors can chip, peel, or even warp.
3. Steel doors are considered to be one of the most secure choices for any home. They are very durable and are much heavier than wood or aluminum doors. Without proper maintenance, they may begin to rust.
4. Aluminum doors are generally made with a wood interior covered by an aluminum shell that is then coated with a baked on finish of enamel. In some cases, these doors are made of a metal frame that is filled with a foam core to insulate and provide a better energy efficiency rating.
5. Composite doors are made from a wood frame and filled with a foam interior. They are then wrapped with a fiberglass outer shell. These doors are often more expensive than the other door types. However, composite doors require no maintenance and are very durable. Most come with a lifetime warranty if installed with the matching door frame.
6. Keep in mind, a “wood” door isn’t necessarily entirely wood anymore. In fact, some wood doors have steel interiors, and steel doors have wood exteriors. A fiberglass or steel door may have a wood frame. And nearly any door may have a core of foam insulation.
7. You can now buy an entire “entry system.” With an entry system, a door is pre-hung in its frame, the door’s bottom edge interlocks with the threshold, and weather-stripping encircles the door’s perimeter. This ensures the door is properly sealed in the door jamb and prevents drafts or pathways for little critters.
8. Look for low-e glazing on window units. For added security, some manufacturers offer glazing designed to resist break-ins.

So to spark some ideas, take a look at these beautifully designed front doors. What do you think about the people who live here?