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Entry Door Basics

Choosing the right entry door for your home is a big decision. Here are some things to keep in mind when making your selection.

Glossary of Entry Door Terms

Door styles
Your front door adds curb appeal and can draw attention to your home. Create unique designs by combining door panels, transoms and decorative sidelites.

Glass options
Glass adds a touch of elegance to any home. Choose one that reflects your style, whether it's a full panel of clear energy efficient glass, tinted, or a decorative pattern with caming. Customize your look with matching transoms and sidelites.

Security
You want your front door to be as secure as it is beautiful. Reinforced strike plate areas are a good security measure, and increasing the distance from the lockset to the deadbolt spreads impact load from potential break-ins, thereby increasing security. Check the frame of the door to be sure it's strong, tight and well-constructed.

Quality
Be careful when choosing the material for your entry door: wood has a history of warping, rotting and splitting. Alternative materials such as fiberglass and steel may prove more durable against the elements.

Performance
Be sure the door you select will protect your house from the elements and not inflate your utility bills. Weatherstripping is a must, as is a door that fits snugly within the frame. As your house settles over time, having an entry door with an adjustable threshold will help you to keep air and water infiltration from becoming a problem. Fiberglass or steel insulated door panels insulate better than hollow panels or wood construction. Look for a door that meets ENERGY STAR® guidelines, to ensure that its energy efficient.

Warranty
And finally, buy from a manufacturer that stands behind its products. Check warranties to be sure the company will be there for you if you have a problem. Don’t be fooled into buying a door from a no-name company; you’ll likely be left out in the cold when you need them the most.