How to Choose a New Front Door

Part One - Why Plan Your New Front Door?

There are so many factors to consider when you are buying a new front door, it can seem very daunting. That is, unless you do not realise the importance of choosing the right front door for your home.

This blog post is the first in a series of guides to help you make the right choice for you and your home when buying a new front door.

Lets start with why it is important to put some thought into the task of buying a new front door, rather than just buying the first front door that fits your door frame and your budget.

Lets consider the role of your front door.
It is:

• The first thing visitors see when they call on you.


• What protects you and your home from the outside world.


• Used on a daily basis.

It may not seem important to list the fact that your door is the first impression to visitors as the top priority. However, not all visitors are good visitors. If you consider a potential attacker checking your home for weaknesses and vulnerabilities, suddenly first impressions seem very important. Experienced burglars know exactly what to look for in a door. Certain features provide them with easy access if they use the right force - a kick or a crowbar in the right place. Do you know the weaknesses of your own front door?
Of course, to some first impressions to good visitors is also a high priority. Especially if you are planning on selling your property, you do not want the first thing viewers see to be a poor quality front door.

Next, your front door protects you and your home from the outside world. Again, this could be potential attackers as I just discussed, or it could just be protection from the elements. Heat escaping and draughts coming in through gaps can cause an increase of your energy bills. A well-insulated front door can keep your home cosy.
It is also important to consider how well your door will fair while it is protecting you. It might provide good protection from attackers or the weather, but will the door still be good afterwards? Weathering can often cause fading, warping and rotting in some doors. Attacks may result in a door that is dented or cracked, even if it manages to resist the attacker getting in.

Lastly, your door is used on a daily basis. Each member of the household coming and going, answering the door to callers, it's all wear and tear on the door. You don't want a front door that sticks and prevents your from opening it easily. It is important to have a door that will continue to function well throughout its lifespan.

Next post: How to Choose a New Front Door Part Two: Location