The primary entrance to any house deserves an attractive aesthetic with reliable security. Property owners often select thick, hardwood materials because they provide curbside appeal and durable strength. Steel doors remain something of an afterthought because they are more closely associated with commercial buildings, which may not appear to have the same design prowess.
But the advanced technologies and design elements integrated into today's steel doors place them on an equal footing with others in their class. Today's steel doors provide a wide range of proven benefits as well as concerns. If you are considering replacing an existing exterior door, these are things to consider about steel options.
Steel doors rank among the most energy-efficient compared to leading materials such as wood or fiberglass. Steel doors can effectively prevent air leaks, and quality products generally include secure foam insulation.
Except for extreme heat, steel doors are generally not affected by weather conditions. Wood tends to fluctuate as seasonal temperatures rise and fall, and they can warp when wet. Steel, by contrast, remains an immovable object.
Steel ranks among the most secure materials when deterring break-ins. Many products are integrated into a metal frame and robust locking systems. Wood and fiberglass doors, while typically secure, may not be as secure as a stainless steel door.
Contemporary steel doors can be ordered with a wide variety of finishes, mimicking natural wood and other textures. Consumers can also select from wide-reaching color options or pre-primed products, leaving the final color up to DIY homeowners to decide after installation.
Although steel doors resist showing ordinary wear and tear, hard impacts can leave dents and scratches. Unlike wood doors, property owners cannot easily fix these imperfections with putty and paint.
The flipside of wood doors warping or peeling is steel doors can show rust after scratched protective coatings come in contact with rain and moisture. This possibility tasks people with sometimes sanding and repainting scratched steel doors.
A handy DIYer typically possesses the tools and carpentry skills to install wood and fiberglass products, largely because they come with wood casings that only require leveling and screwing into 2x4 framing lumber. Steel doors generally employ metal casings that often require advanced skills to install.
By conducting a little research and considering the pros and cons of different materials, you can make an informed decision about the best door for your home.
Terese Ferrara is a long-time resident of the Bay Area and has been a partner with The Goss Real Estate Group for many years. She and her husband raised their two daughters in San Jose, where she successfully continues to build her real estate career.
After earning a bachelor’s degree from San Jose State University, she went on to teach in the San Jose Unified School District for 9 years. Transitioning to real estate was a logical choice, utilizing her patient demeanor to educate all levels of buyers and sellers. Knowledge and experience demonstrate her vested interest in delivering the highest level of care and professionalism to every client. She consistently strives to exceed her client’s expectations throughout the entire real estate transaction and remains a trusted advisor long after each close.
As a board member on KW Bay Area Estates’ Associate Leadership Council (ALC), she aids in support of culture and professional development strategies for over 180 associates. Terese is also a Director for the Santa Clara County Association of Realtors Foundation, which supports community service initiatives in Silicon Valley.
Terese is the consummate real estate professional dedicated to providing unparalleled service to her clients through ongoing training and education, keeping her on top of the dynamic market and latest real estate trends. Her high-touch approach coupled with honesty and integrity support her commitment to her client’s real estate needs.
