There is a lot to consider when choosing exterior doors for your home. Durability, weatherproofing, style and colour are all factors when choosing new exterior doors. We spoke with David Rae from Madero to bring you the best tips for choosing your exterior doors.
Getting Started
Today, access to renovation ideas is plentiful. TV, magazines and flyers offer lots of suggestions on enhancing your exterior doors. While most offer solutions that showcase decorative styles and paint colours, it is very important to visit with your local renovation store so that they can ensure the product you’re interested in can withstand any harsh weather conditions.
Mind the Weather
Whether it’s a scorching summer or harsh winter, your door should be able to handle the weather. Wind, rain, sun and snow should all be considered when choosing your door. Remember that your door is the barrier between your home and the elements. It can also greatly affect the insulation of your home, which affects your utility bills. It’s always best to work with a reputable brand and installer to ensure that your door doesn’t drive up your monthly bills.
Exterior Door Materials
Steel and fibreglass are the two most common products used today. Steel doors come with an insulated core that ensures maximum weather resistance. Fibreglass offers the same weather resistance but also offers the design flexibility to mimic wood doors.
While wood doors offer a rich textured appearance, they lack an efficient thermal barrier from the cold elements. Wood also requires yearly maintenance to prevent splitting. Fibreglass will not rot or split.
Based on the design, fibreglass can be painted or stained to match your colour choice. These doors can be hung in primed wood frames or in composite frames.
When buying a new door, consider the upkeep and price point that best suits your needs.
Style, Colour and Paint
Of course, aesthetic is a big consideration when choosing a new door. Paint and stain come in a rainbow of different colours. Some doors also have pre-finished options. It is best to visit your local Co-op Home Centre to get a brochure or swatch of the colour that you are interested in. You can even bring home multiple swatches and let the whole family weigh in!
Tips to Remember
While updating your exterior door can be one of the best return-on-investment projects you can do, make sure you get the proper measurements of the door you are replacing. As well, always deal with a reputable installer and ask for trade references.
We can help you make the right choice for your home. For more info, visit your local Co-op Home Centre.
