Here's How to Pick a Front Door

By: Don Vandervort (Page 5 of 7)

MANY FIBERGLASS-composite doors not only resemble real wood but also have wood components. This Arcadia door from Therma-Tru has kiln-dried oak edges and lumber reinforcement for the lockset.

Photo: Melabee M. Miller

MOST CUSTOM DOORS are really modifications of a standard door design. This Chautauqua Woods system includes decorative glass ovals and sidelight muntins.

Photo: Melabee M. Miller

ENTRY DOORS are the only opportunity to add decorative glass accents on most homes. The Cambria door from Simpson contains leaded glass in a variety of designs. Prices start at about $850.

Photo: Melabee M. Miller

BEAUTY CAN BE more than skin deep on a steel entry door. The Sta-Tru line from Stanley offers a variety of glazing options and includes an insulated core for energy efficiency. Prices start at about $1,200 for the system shown.

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ALUMINUM DOORS

Aluminum doors, like steel units, use an insulation core covered by a metal skin. Unlike other door systems, however, aluminum versions are sold exclusively through dealers. Each is custom-built to your opening.

Manufacturers offer all types of options. The doors in the Armaclad line from Hess Manufacturing, for example, come in dozens of styles and colors, with smooth or wood-grain finishes.

Aluminum doors have a baked-on enamel finish, so they never need painting and won't rust — which explains the 20-year warranties that are common. You can also match the color and style of your door with an aluminum storm door. All these benefits don't come cheap, however. At prices that start at about $600, aluminum doors are the most expensive choice after solid wood.