By Jennifer Noonan | Updated Dec 29, 2021 11:10 AM
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Almost no other part of your home gets as much exposure as the front door. It’s where you greet friends and family, serve (or scare) trick-or-treaters, and enjoy the songs 0f holiday carolers. A front door says a lot about who lives inside.
There is a dizzying variety of options to choose from in front doors, both in style (paneled, double, arched) and construction (wood, fiberglass, metal). Selecting an entryway can be completely overwhelming, but fortunately there are some practical matters to help guide the decision-making process.
Your front door should fit in architecturally with the rest of your home. But you can take the opportunity to let this element say something about you, as well. Are you the traditional type? Maybe the classic six-panel door is right for you. More whimsical? Perhaps an arched door with stained glass. There is something out there for everyone, so feel free to express yourself.
The standard size for a single door is generally 32″-36″ wide. Is your entryway standard, or will it require something bigger, like a 42″ extra-wide single door? Beyond that are double doors. Also, an entryway may encompass more than just the actual door, and remember that ornamental elements (e.g., sidelites or a glazed transom) require proper framing for support.
Most modern doors are made of wood, fiberglass, or steel.
Like most investments in your home, when you purchase a front door, there’s an up-front cost and the long-term cost. Make sure you are well aware of the energy efficiency, maintenance requirements, and life expectancy of the door you are selecting. All those things impact the long-term cost of maintaining your entryway.
Whatever door you choose, use color, hardware, and entryway accessories to make it your own. Then invite your friends, family, and neighbors to knock and come on in.
Looking for inspiration? Front door ideas abound in our gallery 10 Eye-Catching Options for Your Front Door!
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