Your front door is the gateway to your home. It’s one of the first parts of your house that people will notice, and serves important functions of security, beauty, and functionality. If your front door is showing signs of wear, is cracked or damaged, or just plain ugly, it might be time for an upgrade.   Fortunately, today’s homeowners have many excellent choices available for door replacements. However, the options and choices on the market may leave some people feeling overwhelmed. In today’s post, the door replacement experts here at Reflect Window & Door offer a few key tips for finding your perfect replacement door.  

Know what type of door product you need.

You might be looking to replace just the door itself - this can be called a slab door. On the other hand, if you’re also looking for a new frame and other accessories, you’re looking for something called an “entry system” or pre-hung door. Knowing this lingo and being clear when you’re shopping will make the decision much easier.

Consider home security.

Your front door isn’t just meant to look pretty. It also serves as a critical part of your home’s overall security. You should think about how concerned you are with break-ins and other security issues. If you live in an area with a higher burglary rate, consider door security choices like not having surrounding door glass, investing in higher-security locks, and choosing a strong door material.

Check for door size and compatibility.

In many cases, door sizes and parts are designed for interoperability. However, this isn’t always true - and as the saying goes, “measure twice, cut once.” Before making any final decisions, be sure that your new door is the correct size and will work with any other components you might have, including the frame, hinges, locks, and so forth.

Choose an energy efficient door.

Especially if you live in a colder climate, it’s important to ensure that your new door will help protect you (and your heating bills!) from the elements. Choosing a steel or fiberglass door is a good idea for conserving energy. Installing weatherstripping is also a great way to ensure your door is energy efficient. As a side benefit, energy efficient doors are also usually better at blocking noise from the outside: a great benefit if you live near a noisy road.

Prioritize your needs.

Ultimately, there’s no one perfect door. Everyone will have different needs and preferences. Before spending too much time shopping, think about what’s important to you. A very pretty door might be less durable or efficient. A door that allows lots of light to enter through windows will be less secure. Wooden doors are typically preferable aesthetically, but require more effort to maintain and aren’t as solid overall. Think about what you really want for your home, and try to make a decision that fits your unique situation.   Finally, remember that you don’t have to tackle your door replacement project alone. Although some people might like to DIY, others can greatly benefit from the guidance and experience of a professional. At Reflect Window & Door, we’ve been installing, replacing, and repairing doors since 1985. If you’re located around Edmonton, Alberta, send us a message, and we’ll be happy to provide you with a free door replacement estimate.