The front door is an important part of your home’s aesthetic and security. New replacement doors protect against hurricanes, high winds and debris and improve curb appeal and property value.
Wooden doors add a traditional elegance and can be customized with panel and glass designs, sidelights and transoms. They are durable and can be stained to match any design aesthetic.
Impact-rated doors
If you live in a hurricane-prone area, it’s important to protect your home with impact doors. They’re designed to shield your family from flying debris during storms, and can help reduce the amount of water that enters your house. They can also save you money on your homeowners insurance premiums.
The doors are made of fiberglass skins and polyurethane foam cores, which make them stronger than regular doors. They are also designed to absorb flying debris up to 200 mph. You’ll find that these doors come in a variety of styles and finishes.
Some areas of Florida, like the coastal areas of Miami-Dade and Broward Counties, are classified as High Velocity Hurricane Zones (HVHZ). HVHZ doors have more stringent requirements than standard products, including the ability to resist wind speeds up to 200 mph. They also require more testing than non-HVHZ doors. The best way to ensure your impact door meets local requirements is to consult with a reputable contractor or building department.
Wooden doors
Wooden doors offer a sense of artistry and craftsmanship that can complement almost any design aesthetic. They are also a great option for those who are concerned with the environmental impact of their home. According to premium door manufacturer Pella, wooden doors work better in various climates than their synthetic counterparts because they can expand and contract depending on the temperature, acting as a natural insulator.
Exterior and interior wooden doors can be crafted in a wide range of sizes, shapes, molding profiles, panel configurations, glazing options, carvings, and other design details. They can be incorporated into new construction or renovated homes. They are strong and durable, and resistant to abrasions and impacts. They make a bold statement and provide acoustic and thermal insulation.
Like all doors, they require regular maintenance to ensure their longevity. A good door dealer can help you select the right door for your home and provide a comprehensive maintenance plan that will keep it looking and functioning its best.
Fiberglass doors
The front door is a crucial element of your home’s curb appeal and security. It needs to be tough against the elements and weather and resistant to intruders. It should also fit in with the existing design aesthetic of your house.
Many homes in Florida fall into a high-velocity hurricane zone (HVHZ) that requires impact-rated doors to protect the property from debris. These doors look like standard front doors but have a core that is stronger to withstand damage from flying debris during a storm.
Fiberglass exterior doors are a popular choice in HVHZ areas because they do not swell or rot and resist moisture damage better than wood doors. They are also energy efficient, helping homeowners save on heating and cooling costs. They have a fully insulated foam core that helps to reduce the rate of heat transfer between indoor and outdoor environments. This keeps the interior of the house cool in summer and warm in winter.
Aluminum doors
Aluminum doors embody sleek aesthetics and high-level functionality. They can be chromed or powder-coated for color variety and are highly resistant to corrosion. They are also less susceptible to water stains than steel doors, making them ideal for damp areas. Their slim profiles maximize natural light and create a more spacious living area. Additionally, they can be designed with thermal breaks to minimize heat transfer and boost energy efficiency.
They are also durable and long-lasting, providing years of service. They do not swell or shrink in hot or cold weather and have superior acoustic capabilities. In addition, they require little maintenance and are easy to customize.
However, despite their durability, aluminum doors are prone to scratches and dents, which may necessitate repairs over time. They are also less insulating than other door types, leading to higher energy costs. Additionally, they are vulnerable to rust and corrosion when exposed to harsh weather conditions. This is why it’s important to choose a quality product from an experienced company.