You probably already know the difference that modern, energy-efficient windows can make for reducing energy costs in your home. However, did you know that upgrading your exterior doors can make a significant impact as well? Your home’s front and back doors can be a prime area for heat transfer. So, if you’re having difficulty keeping your energy bills down in the summer and winter, you might consider choosing new doors to bolster your home’s insulation.
In addition to offering improved energy efficiency, a new door might also boost your home’s curb appeal, reduce outside noise, improve your home security, and increase the value of your home. Therefore, it’s a worthwhile upgrade that you should put some thought into. Continue reading to get an idea of what type of door will be best for your Tucson home.
Configuration
For front entry doors, you will either have a single swinging door or a double door configuration. However, patio entries may leave you with a wider range of door configuration options. Sliding glass is a classic choice, but some homeowners prefer the dramatic look of oversized hinged doors or the distinctive appeal of folding glass doors. Other options include hinge-less pivot doors, multi-panel glass doors, and pocket doors.
Materials
When you are considering different types of doors, the biggest consideration besides the door configuration will be your door materials. Different materials will offer a wide range of price points, along with some distinctive features.
- Aluminum – Aluminum is a popular choice for sliding glass door framing, as it is lightweight, affordable, and durable. If you are looking for a durable metal entry door, steel doors can provide a lifelong performance and are available in a wide range of finishes.
- Vinyl – If you’re looking to upgrade your sliding glass patio door, then a vinyl door may be ideal. Vinyl offers improved sound dampening and insulation qualities. It also offers a wider range of possible finishes.
- Wood – For a timeless look, you might choose a solid core wood door. Wooden doors are crafted from rot-resistant woods, and they are sealed to stand up to the elements. They can also be painted or stained to achieve virtually any aesthetic you would want for your entry way. However, wood is still more vulnerable to rot and weather damage than other materials. In addition, high-quality doors tend to also come with a higher price tag.
- Fiberglass – Fiberglass is a popular entry door material that can mimic the grainy appearance of natural wood with added durability. Fiberglass is also an exceptional material for blocking out drafts and leaks. In addition, fiberglass doors come in just about any color or faux wood finish you can imagine.
Installation
While you can go to your local hardware store and browse pre-fabricated doors for DIY installation, this is not ideal for improving your home’s energy efficiency. Doors and their frames should be custom fitted to entry ways to ensure a tight fit that will seal out the elements. In addition, an incorrectly installed door could pose a security risk for your house. To ensure the job is done correctly the first time around, you’ll want to call a local window and door company that specializes in exterior home renovations.
Crandell Glass & Aluminum, LLC is Tucson’s trusted source for high-quality windows and doors from leading brands including International Window & Door and Heritage. Call us for a free consultation for your home renovations at (520) 512-5042. We are ready to help you find the right solutions for your home and offer professional installation services you can count on.