FRONT DOORS THE OPTIONS
With a wide choice of materials and designs available, figuring out which front door type is best suited to your needs can be tricky. Georgina Crothers explores the options
The entrance to your home should be considered early on in the design phase of your project. The front door is often the focal point of a property’s exterior, so you’ll want to choose a design you’ll love stepping in and out of every day. Not only that, but security, energy efficiency and maintenance are also factors that come into play. Naturally, a design-led door is likely to cost you more money than a standard design – while functionality and overall quality will be reflected in the price, too. Here is a rundown of the front door options available and what you should expect to budget:
TIMBER
If you want a design that enhances the charm and character of your property, wooden doors can add value and kerb appeal. Timber is a timeless material that can suit a range of architectural styles, from contemporary through to heritage homes. It’s strong and durable, too, so it delivers on multiple fronts. “Timber doors benefit from traditional aesthetics combined with modern technology to create doors that are secure, energy efficient and eco-friendly,” says Ryan Schofield, managing director at Thames Valley Window Company. “But they do require regular maintenance and the occasional fresh lick of paint.” With good upkeep, it will last for decades.
Most timber front doors are sold pre-finished with lengthy guarantees on the paint or stain. If you’re going for an oiled finish, it may need more regular upkeep than a paint or stain. “Oil might need to be reapplied every six months, or more often if you don’t have a roof overhang, which shades your door from the sun,” says Elizabeth Assaf, cofounder of Urban Front.