The Key to Choosing an Exterior Door
Six Panel Style Door
Knock, knock. We have some big news for you. When completing a home addition or major remodel, the type of door you select is just as important as what lies behind it.
“Exterior doors are an opportunity to reinforce the style of the home,” says Normandy Designer Gary Cerek. “You need to work with your exterior in order to find a complementary look.”
When considering the right door, style plays a major role in the decision making process. However, before making any selections, you need to consider what will work best with the architecture of your home. With this in mind, there are an endless amount of door types and style variations to choose from.
Prairie Style Door
A few popular choices include the traditional look of a six panel door, the classic lines of a shaker style door, or the combination of glass and clean lines in a prairie style door. Another route to take is a creating a customized design. This gives you more freedom to be creative and specifically tailor your door to your home. A few examples include adding stained glass, wrought iron detailing or unique designs within the woodwork.
“Choosing the right style door can add to the personality of a home,” says Normandy Designer Gary Cerek. “But curb appeal isn’t the only factor. The right materials are just as important as the design.”
In addition to being aesthetically pleasing, a front door needs to withstand all of the elements (rain, sun, snow) and keep out intruders. Choosing the right material can ensure long lasting durability and security. Three common selections include wood, composite and steel. Each of these has their merits.
Shaker Style Door with Glass Panels
“Solid wood is a popular choice. However, in general, wood doors typically work best in covered entryways,” notes Gary. “The protection from the elements typically leads to less maintenance.”
“If your entryway is not covered, a composite is a viable option,” adds Gary. “This material can mimic the look natural wood; however, it is extremely durable and requires little maintenance.”
Another durable entry door material is steel. “Steel is frequently the most economical choice but has limited style options ,” says Gary. “While it is an extremely sturdy door, it will be more prone to dents, dings and rust over time.”
Small details like hardware can also make a big impact. Selecting unique door knockers and handles can make a world of difference. Adding glass panels is another way to add visual interest.
Not all doors are created equal. Make an appointment with Gary to discuss the details of your addition or whole home renovation project. Or, register for an upcoming seminar to learn more about what goes into a home remodel. For more information on interior design and home remodeling, you can also follow Normandy on Facebook and Twitter.
