Tag: nashville doors

A house’s entry door is the setting for the entire home. As a guest’s first introduction, it plays an important role in creating curb appeal. A door with inset windows gives an open, welcoming appearance, while a solid color can make a bold statement about the owner’s taste. The wrong door can leave a strong impression, as well. Peeling paint, splintering, or a contrasting garnish makes the entire home seem uninviting.

When replacing an entry door, there are three main considerations:

• Safety. An entry door’s primary function is a means to enter and exit the house – but doors also have psychological significance. They welcome friends across the threshold and help us feel safe when we’re inside.

  Beyond the feeling of security, entry doors keep us safe, physically barring us from the outside. A strong door makes a house a safe haven, protecting its inhabitants from rain, snow, and potential invaders. A secure entry door is solid with a functioning lock, but isn’t so stark or overly fortified that it makes the home feel like a jail cell.

  Luckily, reinforced steel doors can be styled in different ways. For example, wood grain finishes and any variety of colors can be used to give a warm feeling to a deceptively secure entrance.
  

• Aesthetics. A dirty or damaged front door instantly gives the entire home an aura of neglect. Conversely, a property’s appeal can be spruced up with a new door, so if an entryway is showing signs of age, it may be time to replace it with something more weather resistant.

  When selecting a door, remember that it should match the house’s style. It can be jarring to see a lovely cottage-style home with a bland white steel door. Likewise, a rustic, antiqued wood frame would look out-of-place in a Frank Lloyd Wright style design.

  Wood doors are a versatile choice, as their compatibility with existing features depends on the home’s material and styling. Oak, mahogany, cherry, and walnut are classic choices. If a solid color would better suit the property, paint-grade wood is an option.
  

• Durability. A door’s longevity and ability to withstand the elements can be a major factor when choosing an entry. While any door from a reputable supplier is a safe bet in terms of durability, aluminum is especially sturdy and rust-resistant.

  In the past, aluminum doors were easily recognizable by their harsh metallic appearance. Today they’re suitable for nearly any home, as they come in a variety of finishes to help them blend seamlessly. Wood-grade finish on an aluminum door is nearly indistinguishable from authentic wood, and inlaid windows are a common feature.

  But perhaps nothing is as impressive as a faux finish on a fiberglass door. Due to its malleability, this material produces a likeness to wood so exceptional that it’s nearly impossible to tell the difference.

  Unlike traditional wood, though, fiberglass is low-maintenance and surprisingly durable. It’s impervious to moisture, so it won’t warp or rot even after years of use. The coating won’t peel despite exposure to sun or heavy rain. It’s also more energy-efficient than other options, thanks to its superior insulation.
  

Other Nashville Doors

Although an entryway is most visible, side-entry doors also deserve some consideration. Many side entrances lead to a utility/laundry room or directly into the garage. As they’re not frequently visible from the road, their appearances aren’t always given much thought. If visual appeal isn’t a high priority for side doors, they should at least look new and secure. A shambled entrance can be a temptation for buglers.

With so many options in terms of strength, style, and durability, choosing a door may seem slightly overwhelming. Every home has its own needs when it comes to the front door, and every type offers something different.

Are you ready to replace your Middle Tennessee home’s entry? Click here to learn more about our Nashville Doors selection.