Your entry door needs to be tough enough to withstand sun, wind, rain, and intruders. But you also want your door to compliment the style of your home and make a good impression on those stopping by. Meeting all those requirements can feel like a tall order. If you are feeling a little overwhelmed by all the choices, the best place to start is with the material. Here is what you need to know about the most popular entry doors on the market.
1. Wood Doors
These are still the most common entry doors. They are known for their beauty, versatility, and strength. Options include oak, walnut, cherry, maple, fir, and mahogany. Some wood doors are made of an engineered wood core sandwiched between wood veneer skins. This minimizes warping and improves strength and insulation. Some manufacturers use split construction with wood door panels surrounding an insulation core for an even higher R-value. Then, there is always solid wood, which cost the most, ranging from $600 to $4,000, depending on the type of wood. You can paint wood doors any color you like or chose a natural finish. Just remember, you want a durable stain and finish to protect your entry door against moisture and swelling.
2. Aluminum Doors
These doors have an insulation core surrounded by the metal skin. You can choose from dozens of colors and styles, or even choose a metal door with a faux wood-grain finish. The baked-on finish protects the material so it will not rust or corrode. That said, aluminum is considered one of the softer materials and has a high heat conductivity. It isn’t as energy efficient as other materials. Fortunately, you don’t really have to worry about excessive heat in Lake Oswego, OR. In fact, aluminum actually holds up better than other doors when the temperature drops.
3. Steel Doors
Are durability and security your top concerns? Then steel entry doors deserve a closer look. Most steel doors are filled with wood and high density foam. Steel doors also get a baked-on finish or a vinyl coating for even better weather resistance. The material will not warp or crack because of extreme temperatures. And while it can dent, you are able to repair most dings with an auto-body repair kit. They are also one of the most affordable options on the market.
4. Fiberglass Doors
These are the toughest and often the most versatile doors on the market. You get the strength and durability of fiberglass, and the same beautiful finish and versatility of wood. Best of all, these doors are practically maintenance free and carry the longest warranties. The molded fiberglass houses a wooden framework of stiles and rails. These doors will not expand and contract because of temperature and are impervious to moisture.
Choose EnergyGuard for Entry Doors
When it comes to getting a new door Lake Oswego, OR, installation is key. It is more than just making sure the hinges line up with the existing frame. In some cases, the framing is warped or rotted or the wall studs can bow and settle. If the frame is out of square, then installing a new door will be tricky. You also need to choose the proper jamb size matching the exact height and width of your opening and maybe even plane the door to fit the space. Best to leave it to the professionals! Call EnergyGuard Windows and Doors today at 503-554-5500 or stop by 516 E. 2nd St., Newberg, OR 97132. We can offer you superior design, consultation, and installation of your new entry door in Lake Oswego, OR.