Last Updated on March 17, 2022 by Kravelv
Looking at choosing new doors for your home can feel overwhelming. Your door is often the first thing that people notice and more importantly, doors are one of the most vital aspects of home security.
The options for different types of materials can be daunting. Join us to run through our five top tips to help you navigate the choices and choose the perfect door to greet your visitors.
1. Know your budget
Knowing how much you are willing to spend will help you to begin filtering down your choices. Remember that you will need to account for what features and accessories are included, the longevity that you need from your exterior doors, energy efficiency and any extras that you will need to install it. Read on to discover which materials best match your budget.
2. Think about materials
There are multiple door materials to select from, so take your time. Some popular choices include:
– uPVC doors often provide a very large range of choice. They are difficult to break into, provide a high level of sound insulation, are completely weatherproof and need very little maintenance. These doors are often chosen when working to a tight budget.
image: astralhomeimprovements.ie
– Composite doors can be slightly more expensive than uPVC doors, although it’s claimed that they are stronger due to the use of differing materials in the composition. Many homeowners often choose composite doors when they want the look of a traditional wooden door but without the upkeep. Composite doors are regularly chosen as being the easy all-round choice.
image: astralhomeimprovements.ie
– Aluminium doors usually accompany doors that frame larger amounts of glass. They are slim yet very strong, maintenance-free and have great longevity. Aluminium is a sustainable source, so they can be favoured by those wishing to include a more eco-friendly design. However, aluminium doors can be very expensive so are often reserved for a more generous budget. Aluminium doors are great for those who want to prioritise an eco-friendly design without compromising on longevity.
image: astralhomeimprovements.ie
– Wooden doors are often considered the most elegant choice. They allow flexibility of design, can be a great insulator and do not rust. However, they can require more maintenance, be susceptible to insect damage and they absorb moisture. Wooden doors can last a lifetime if they are well cared for.
image: astralhomeimprovements.ie
3. Match the style
Consider what will complement the age and design of your house and your needs as a homeowner. Take a look at other houses similar to yours and make a list of things that attract you to a door and other influences which you want to avoid.
4. Consider longevity
Are you buying a door that you will walk through for the next twenty years? Or are you buying a door that will see you through until your next house move in the not-so-distant future? It is also important to consider what potential buyers may like – so bear this in mind whilst making your choices.
5. Opt for glazing
If you have a dark hallway, it may be worth considering adding some double or triple glazing to your exterior door. If privacy will be an issue, take a look at some of the opaque glass choices that are on offer.
There are no hard and fast rules to guide you through choosing your new exterior door. Do your research, wander around your neighbourhood for ideas and check performance details before purchasing. But most of all, enjoy the experience of adding this important new feature to your home.
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Author Bio:
Dan Smullen is a home improvement expert at Astral Home Improvements. If he is not drinking coffee and reading interior design magazines, you can find him playing sport with his friends.
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