DIY Replacement Front Doors

by Don Miller

Are you tired of your house looking old and drab? Do you want to make a change that would add style and interest while also adding value to the property? If so, it would be worthwhile to look at different designs for replacement front doors. Today, manufacturers have so many beautiful materials, styles, and designs that changing the entry door would completely transform the appearance of your home from both the outside and the inside.

Although you could look at diy replacement front doors just like those found throughout the neighborhood, if the budget allows why not do something different. As you begin to look around, you would be shocked by the incredible options. For instance, a door made from solid mahogany with wood block windows would create a look of richness while a mahogany door with two arched windows with an etched design would be elegant.

Of course, if you wanted something with more security and a door that would require less maintenance you could always look at the various options for replacement front doors made from steel. For the ultimate strong door, 24-gauge steel would be ideal but if you preferred something a little more affordable and practical, a door made from fiberglass would make a perfect solution. The great thing about steel is that it could be painted and sealed so if after a few years you were to decide you wanted a fresh look, a new coat of paint would do wonders.

Another beautiful look found in replacement front doors are the knotty alder designs. The wood is lighter than mahogany, creating a more casual look but still gorgeous. As with other woods, you would have the opportunity to choose from a variety of styles so if you wanted a larger viewing area or preferred more privacy, you would have problem finding the perfect solution.

For a cottage look, white replacement front doors produce a welcoming appearance. Although you could choose a white door for any style home, this is something typically seen with Cape Cod, Victorian, cottage, or beachfront properties. Obviously, white doors have a clean look that many people find refreshing and of course, white goes with everything so if you have looked at multiple choices for replacement front doors but feel overwhelmed, going with white, whether made from wood, fiberglass, or steel would look amazing.

Keep in mind that regardless of the material or style chosen, you would have more success by shopping for replacement front doors from reputable companies. After all, the look of the door is just one aspect. You want to make sure the door provides the type of functionality needed, that it is designed well to handle the outside elements and that the company from which the door is purchased provides an excellent warranty and customer support. Remember, even the most expensive doors in the world need to be backed by quality materials and workmanship so buying the best you can afford would be worth the investment.

Steel Replacement Doors

Most people interested in steel replacement doors do not realize that several different types exist and that each offers different benefits. Although doors are now made from all types of wood species, as well as other materials, steel has long been a top choice for a variety of reasons. Obviously, steel is extremely strong but the benefits that come from choosing a door of this type are much broader.

Today, it is estimated that of all homes in the United States approximately 50% have a steel door. One reason that steel replacement doors remain so popular has to do with security. Even prior to crime rates rising throughout the country, people have always felt a sense of protection, knowing that steel is much harder to penetrate than wood or other materials used for doors.

Steel replacement doors have also been popular because of their weather resistance qualities. However, while steel has always been great at blocking out heat and cold, with better materials and workmanship steel doors are even better at protecting the home from harsh elements. Even steel replacement doors that cost around $150 would offer the same level of resistance as wood or fiberglass doors that easily cost $500 and more.

Obviously, that leads to the next reason that steel replacement doors are a great bargain. This type of door is a cost efficient choice, especially when you look at the benefits provided when compared to doors made of other materials. Therefore, if you want a door that provides security, is strong and durable, a door that can block heat and cold, and one that is affordable, you cannot go wrong in choose from any of the beautiful steel door choices on the market today.

Currently, wood and fiberglass doors are still among the best choices but comparing features with steel replacement doors easily puts steel at the top of the list. For instance, while fiberglass is practical, it will wear over time and doors of this material do require some maintenance. Then looking at doors made from wood, even quality hardwood species, the exposure to the elements would eventually cause problems such as warping, splitting, cracking, and possible wood rot. Steel doors on the other hand do not experience these same challenges.

Some people avoid even looking at steel replacement doors, believing they are “too industrial”. That decision is actually unfortunate in that many doors today are stylish. Sure, some steel doors do have an industrial look but because of increasing popularity and affordability, finding options that look expensive and elegant is easy. Of course, along with keeping steel replacement doors natural, they can also be painted and if preferred, they are made with a veneer stain that replicates the look of wood but without the problems.

Although most people purchase steel replacement doors that have already been manufactured, as with other types of front and back doors those made from steel can be custom made. Obviously, this option would result in a much higher price but considering the money saved with steel doors some people find the additional cost worth paying.