There are many factors to consider when choosing an external door for your home. These factors include cost, material, and fire safety. The best way to decide what type of door is suitable for your home is to visit a showroom and explore different options. Expert advice is also available at showrooms, so you can make an informed decision.
Choosing an external door
Choosing an external door can greatly impact the look and feel of a home. It also has an impact on the selling price of a property. This is because the style of the door will determine how prospective buyers view it. Choosing the right style and material is essential for a welcoming entrance. Keep the following factors in mind before you purchase an external door:
The external door you choose for your home should be secure and durable. While some people like the appearance of wood, solid wood is not the most secure material. Wood veneer is also not very secure, and UPVC and steel doors can rust. It’s also not easy to install a lock on a UPVC door. Today, fibreglass composite doors are the most popular choice for exterior doors, as they have the look of wood but are much more secure.
Material options
There are a number of material options for external doors. Understanding the advantages and disadvantages of each type will help you decide which material to use for your new exterior doors. If you’re unsure about the material you should use, consider consulting a trusted contractor. This external door contractor can provide you with a list of materials you can choose from.
The most popular material for an exterior door is wood, but there are also many other options available. Fiberglass and steel are other popular options for doors. Choosing the right type of material is crucial for energy efficiency and aesthetics.
Cost
The cost of external doors varies greatly depending on the material used and the style of the door. A new front door can cost between $300 and $2,000, while a replacement back door can run between $300 and $1,000. Both types of doors can be made of wood, steel, or composite wood. Some options include sidelights, windows, and decorative hardware.
The average cost of an external door is $1,400 to $3,500. This price range includes permits, structural engineer plans, cutting out and framing the door opening in an exterior wall, and installation labor. Additional costs may apply if you have brick walls or need to reroute electrical and plumbing. Another option is to convert a window to an exterior door. This can cost from $500 to $2,000, including building permits.
Fire safety
Fire safety on external doors is a very important factor in keeping a building safe. It’s vital that doors have the right kind of hardware and seals to prevent fire from spreading. In some cases, fire doors may be required to have a special seal with an intumescent material, which allows the door to expand when it senses heat. A fire door should also have an automatic closing mechanism, also known as a door closer. This is an important feature, not just for fire safety but also to control access.
Fire-resistant doors should have a solid timber frame. They should also be fitted with fire-resistant glass. The glass should be able to withstand 60 minutes of heat. The frames and hardware must be tested annually by a fire department.
Maintenance
Maintaining your external doors is an important aspect of home maintenance. This includes ensuring that they are properly secured and that the lock functions properly. If you notice that the lock has become stuck, you can use WD40 to help loosen it up. Regular maintenance will help keep the door looking great for years to come.
It is also important to check your door’s seals to ensure they are functioning properly. Most external doors are fitted with seals to prevent cold air and water from leaking into the house. You should check the seals on a regular basis and replace them if necessary. If the seals are damaged, you can also buy self-adhesive foam strips to help minimise draughts.