Choosing the Right Entry Door

Make a smart first impression when installing a front door.
Open door of house, key in keyhole

TS-200171283-001_open-front-door_s4x3

Open door of house, key in keyhole

Photo by: Siri Stafford

Siri Stafford

By: Rob Fanjoy

Related To:

When installing a new entry door, you might think the choices are limited to steel, wood or fiberglass. That's generally true, but within each of those three categories there are some variances that will affect how the door performs and how long it will stay looking great.

"The first thing to look at is how much weather the door will be exposed to," says Brad Oberg, chief officer for an architectural and engineering consulting firm in Pittsburgh. "You have to look very closely at the durability of the material and the quality of the weatherstripping system to make sure the door will hold up and keep air and water out."

Steel. Made of an inner frame of wood or steel with a 24-gauge steel skin (or thicker on premium doors), the cavities of most steel doors are filled with a high-density foam insulation. Finishes are usually a baked-on polyester finish, which may need periodic resealing. Premium doors have a vinyl coating for improved weather resistance or sometimes even a wood veneer that can take a stain.

If exposed to direct sunlight, some steel doors can build up so much heat they will be uncomfortable to touch. Also, some manufacturers will void the warranty if an aluminum storm door is paired with a steel door because heat will build up between the two and cause the steel door's finish to peel. Steel doors are also somewhat less energy efficient than wood or fiberglass; heat or cold can be conducted through to the inside surface unless a thermal break is incorporated into the door's construction.

Wood. A popular choice for aesthetic reasons, wood doors come in a wide variety of species and can take just about any stain or paint color. Some stock wood doors are actually veneer skins over an engineered wood core, which helps them resist shrinking, swelling and warping that is common with solid wood doors.

"Wood doors work best when installed in a protected area," Oberg says. "Unless they're under an overhang or located in a shaded area, the homeowner will have to perform a lot of maintenance, and warping will be a problem."

As a rule, wood doors with intricate moldings, thicker and wider stiles and rails and thicker panels are usually the best quality. High-end wood doors have panels up to 1-3/8" thick, compared with just 3/4" thick panels on economy models.

Fiberglass and composite. Tough and virtually maintenance-free (except when placed directly in harsh weather, in which case periodic resealing may be required), these doors can mimic the look and feel of a solid wood door. Typically made of molded skins of fiberglass on a framework of wooden stiles and rails, these doors contain polyurethane-foam insulation.

Fiberglass or composite doors typically carry the longest warranties of any of the three materials, and can run anywhere from $200 for a basic unit without any glazing to up to $4,000 for a complete entry system with sidelights and upscale hardware.

Other Factors

Oberg points out that while each material has minor variances in energy efficiency, the most important thing that will decide how well a door performs in this area is weatherstripping and proper flashing and installation.

The American Architectural Manufacturers Association has published a great set of guidelines and has a list of verified products that ensure a quality weatherstripping system that will perform as expected for years.

He also recommends that builders look closely at the threshold system (adjustable ones are desired) and the glazing system, if present (make sure it is properly supported from within, not just "popped in").

"Front doors are a major aesthetic portion of any house," Oberg says. "And in smaller homes it can also be a major part of the ventilation system. Take the time to research the products."

Next Up

How to Install a Tile "Rug" Within a Hardwood Floor

Add high style to your high-traffic entry with this transitional floor tile inset.

Kitchen Cabinet Refacing

Get all the info you'll need on kitchen cabinet refacing, and ensure your kitchen cabinet makeover will be a stylish success.

Reasons to Choose Porcelain Tile

Harder than ceramic, porcelain tile is a smart choice for floors, countertops and walls because of its durability, beauty and countless design choices.

Getting Ready for a Reno? Check Out These Design Resources First

Check out these online tools and apps to help with your renovation.

Top Six Exterior Siding Options

Pull the look of your home together by choosing the right siding material.

How to Choose the Right Tile for Your Home

Learn all about the different types of tile and slabs that can be used on floors, walls and countertops including ceramic, porcelain, cement, marble and more. Plus, we’ll explain PEI rating, glazing and which tiles are easiest to install.

Choosing Kitchen Cabinets

Get tips on how to find the right cabinetry for your remodel.

Paint It Black: Inspiration and Tips for Bold Interior Doors

Bold, black paint can turn even the most basic builder-grade closet doors into architectural statements. See how to make a black door work in your own interior space.

How to Replace a Garage Door Spring

Learn how to identify a damaged or broken garage door spring and determine what it may take to get your door back in working shape.

Top 6 Kitchen Layouts

Learn about different layouts, like L-shaped, one-wall and galley kitchens, and download templates for your renovation.

Go Shopping

Get product recommendations from HGTV editors, plus can’t-miss sales and deals.

On TV

Follow Us Everywhere

Join the party! Don't miss HGTV in your favorite social media feeds.