When you are looking to select the perfect front door for your home, you have to consider multiple factors. The door has to be secure and durable enough to withstand the elements year-round. It also has to be aesthetically pleasing to the eye. Most homeowners want their front door to display a welcoming and awe-inspiring quality.
Two popular options for front doors are French doors and pivot doors. French doors are easily customizable as they come in a variety of sizes and finishes. They can also make a space feel larger. French doors with glass panels let in light from the outside, creating a seamless transition between the interior and exterior space. With larger frames and small glass panels, French doors can offer a higher level of security than sliding or full glass doors.
Pivot doors are praised for their modern design aesthetic and functionality. They can easily open to let a large group of people in or out of space. Like French doors, pivot doors are customizable. Homeowners can select from an array of materials such as metal, wood, or stone. Since pivot doors operate at a central pivot point, it eliminates the need for a frame.
To make the best choice for a front door, you must first understand the different types and qualities of door frames and finishes, along with what makes them unique. You also want to consider qualities such as durability and maintenance.
Types of Frames
Wood Frames
Wood door frames are popular options for homes for their classic look and warmth that they add to a design scheme. Wood is easy to work with so you can easily customize the look of the door to match your desired style. Wooden door frames can be shaped and molded to add intricate details. You may have to schedule some regular maintenance with wood door frames. They tend to require painting and staining to keep them looking great. Another positive aspect of wooden door frames is that they are built to last. This is a durable option for your home, especially when you use woods such as mahogany, oak, or maple wood. These options are resistant to cracking and warping.
Aluminum Frames
Another option to consider is aluminum door frames. They have many great qualities like their ability to withstand climates that are subject to harsh weather conditions and humid areas. You’ll see aluminum door frames in commercial and residential properties. They tend to be popular choices because of their easy maintenance requirements. You can simply use soap and water for your upkeep routine. Another positive quality is that aluminum frames are corrosion and rust-resistant. This is another advantage that can keep your home looking great. Popular finishes include an anodized finish and a painted finish.
Types of Finishes
Anodized Aluminum
Anodized aluminum can add an extra layer of durability to your door. It is resistant to corrosion, chipping, peeling, and scratching. It’s also known for bringing a smooth surface to a door. Some homeowners tend to like this quality for its appealing look. This specific finish is often used for exterior doors.
Painted Aluminum
Painted aluminum is another popular option as a finish. It is lightweight and can easily be maintained. However, the paint can start to chip or peel over time. This can happen because of dirt, heat, and moisture. To prevent this, you simply clean the surface before repainting. It’s also a good idea to use a primer.
Powder coating – People tend to like powder coatings because they can give your aluminum door added durability in the form of resistance to fading, peeling, and chipping. Powder coating offers a longer lifespan and creates a smoother look than a liquid coating. It’s applied electrostatically and then it is heated. This process creates a polished and appealing surface layer.
Liquid coating – This option can offer the same durability as a powder coating. It can also give your door a polished or glossy look. The paint can be applied with a spray gun and does not require high temperatures to cure, so this is a good option for thinner coats. Depending on your aesthetic, this may be an option for you.
Wood Grain
Adding a wood grain finish to a door can give your door that stylish appearance you are looking to add to your home. Usually, steel or fiberglass is used as a base for a wood grain finish. This is an attractive option for people who want the added security and durability that come with fiberglass and steel but would like the appearance of wood.
Premium Designs for a Custom Look
Choose Prestige Island Exports to give your home door frames and finishes that meet your design aesthetic wants and needs. We use high-quality materials from our catalog of luxury brands to help elevate the look and functionality of your home.
Take a look at some of our previous projects to get a better idea of our craftsmanship. We have a team of experienced designers and contractors waiting to help turn your vision into reality. Contact us today so we can begin working with you!
