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Doors fill your home, whether it is the exterior door offering an impression of the family inside or a closet door that keeps your personal life behind closed doors. The role of the door is far greater than what many give it credit. Not only must the door offer aesthetic appeal, it must provide a noise barrier between rooms, keep drafts out, and offer long-lasting durability. Use this guide to minimize the pressure and stress that you experience when buying residential doors.

Buying an Interior Door

Most interior doors are made from wood or MDF materials. They’re used at various locations in a home. Although the door doesn't face as many dangers as the exterior door, there are still a variety of considerations to ponder before making the purchase.

buying interior doors

MDF doors are painted and without grain, but are far less stable than a wood door. The doors are available in a variety of styles that bring modern or traditional styles alive. Hollow wood doors and solid wood doors are available for the home. Hollow doors aren't as soundproof as the solid doors but are far less expensive.

Buying an Exterior Door

The exterior door you choose serves as a focal point for the home and bring exciting curb appeal to life. More important than the door’s appearance is its ability to withstand elements. Exterior doors face potential damage from wind, rain, snow, and a variety of other weather elements, as well as dents and dings. Doors are made from many materials to protect against these dangers.

buying front doors

Each material offers its own pros and cons. Consider each before investing any money in the door. It is ideal to spend a little more money on a quality crafted door since it reflects your personal style. Whatever material you select, ensure that it is properly insulated.

Pre-Hung or Slab Doors

Both interior and exterior doors are sold in prehung or slab form. The pre-hung door is mounted in its frame and jamb with the highest pre-attached. It is simple to install and much easier to hang than a slab door that doesn't include the frame, hinges, or other accessories. The slab door is an unfinished door and a great project for the serious DIYer.

Choosing a Door Size

Measuring the door opening (or current door, if it is still hanging is essential before making a purchase.  Only a tape measure is necessary to measure the door but a precise recording is important. Both interior and exterior doors come in standard sizes that most home improvement stores and door manufacturers sell. If your door opening doesn’t fit a standard size, custom doors are available. Standard door heights measure 78 or 80 inches while the widths range from a small 24-inches to large 60-inch or larger widths.

Picking Door Materials

Which door material is most compatible with your needs? Carefully consider each of the door material options to learn more about its pros and cons to better determine which is best for your needs.

Fibreglass Doors

how to buy entry doors

Fibreglass material is used on the exterior of the home. Styles generally mimic natural wood and come with tons of different colour options and designs, making it simple to create the look that you want. This door offers better insulation than a wood door and is virtually maintenance-free. It is also cheaper than a wood door. Many people avoid the fibreglass door because it is not wood, though you should certainly check it out if you want a cost-effective exterior door.

Steel Doors

how to buy entry doors

Steel is the most durable of the door materials. It is amazing at insulating the home and offers immaculate durability. There isn't a lot that can damage a steel door. It is rust-resistant and won't warp. It is also cheaper than a wood door though sometimes more expensive than a fibreglass door.  The biggest complaint with the steel door is that it requires frequent repainting due to chipped paint, scratches, etc. Click here to learn more about steel doors.

Budgeting for a New Door

Determine the amount of money you’re comfortable spending on the new door before you begin the search. Stick closely to this budget since you shouldn’t go into debt for this purchase. Remember that many factors play a role in the overall costs of your door. This includes whether you’re purchasing an exterior or an interior door, the door material chosen, the size of the door, place of purchase, and other factors.

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Getting the best price for the door you wish to install is simple when a few comparisons are made.  Comparing the options is a fun way to explore the most styles, brands, and choices while also ensuring that the best price for the door is found.

You will find the prices drop considerably if you want a basic door rather than one with all of the bells and whistles. Take date of special offers to further reduce the amount of the door you want to install at your house. Contact us for new doors at an affordable price that suits any style or needs!

How to Choose a Modern Door Design in 2018

A front door is so much more than just a door. Bringing character and a sense of identity to the front of your home, your doorway makes a huge difference to the first impression your home projects. So if style really matters, what’s trending? We take a look at some of the designs already gripping this year’s market.

Bright Colours

Strong and vibrant colours will provide a fresh, clean look and can also provide a wonderful contrast to the overall colour of your house. To prevent this splash of brightness looking out of place, the similar colour should be used in either signage, plants, furniture, or something similar surrounding the door frame to tie a colour scheme together.

best modern doors

Seeing Through It All

Glass or no glass, that is the question. If you are firmly in the glass camp, the good news is that glass panels and the use of glass patterns within a doors design are getting larger. It’s not uncommon to find front doors with a three-quarter size glass covering now, with security and energy efficiency no longer a problem presented by such coverage.

modern front door

Mirrored glass is also becoming a more popular option, providing more light and privacy than frosted glass but bringing similar benefits to your home’s interior. A textured or artistic glass is also becoming more widespread and is yet another way you can retain some privacy while making the home more welcoming.

Minimal Impact

The future has often been portrayed through stark, minimal designs since the early 1900’s and is still used today in contemporary design. One of the better uses of this concept in recent designs is both with flush and pivot doors which both provide a sleek look to your home through the use of uncomplicated, clean lines in their design.

best modern doors

As your front door acts as the gateway into your home, it’s one of the first things a visitor will use to inform their first impressions. Because flush doors operate with a clean and clinical calmness with their smooth action, they impress in both their operation and their appearance to give you a double-win.

Geometric Designs

Doors of a minimal look always look best on homes which have plenty of character and detail in their surrounding exterior. For houses which carry a more stripped down appearance, your front door should contain the decoration and patterns to add balance to the overall look.

One of the top-trending styles of this year is in the use of geometric patterns. This can be presented in a number of different ways, including:

modern door designs

Furthermore, the use of the pattern has become much more adventurous in recent years. While shaped panels have been commonly used in most door design for decades, cubist art such as that of Pablo Picasso is slowly creeping into the world of the front door. This may be a little extreme for either your taste or for your house’s appearance, however, some of the better ones incorporate this style subtly for an amazing look.

Metallic Flourishes

The idea that doors need to have a solid wood look is quickly becoming outdated. With fibreglass doors now offering cheaper alternatives to wood without any disadvantage in performance, designs have also become more flexible.

choosing modern doors

The use of metal and chrome in front door design is one trend which is quickly proving popular. Inlaid strips add a definite modern look as well as a subconscious feeling of strength and added security to the doors stature. Whether wide or narrow, these don’t have to be linear inserts and some of the best modern front door designs of 2018 have arcs of metal in their design to give a truly contemporary feel.

Unorthodox Materials

The use of materials not commonly associated with a front door is a great way to make a striking visual impact. Metallic doors themselves are no new concept, however, the range of choice with this style is rapidly growing. Beyond the original security-minded metal doors, futuristic designs are using metal as a canvas to create some serious wow-factor.

the best modern doors

It’s not only metal either. The effect of stone, brick and even glossy lacquered doors can be used to add drama to a home’s appearance. With laser carving now readily used in a lot of door manufacturing, these materials can also be embellished with further designs to make them even more eye-catching.

Getting a Handle on Door Design

Whatever style of door you settle for, the door handle should play a key part in your decision-making process. As the main feature of any door, the handle’s style is equally as important as its functionality.

From decoratively sculpted lever handles to simple doorknobs or elongated chrome handles, there are many options now available. Because the handle can be an independent choice from the door itself, this also allows for extra creativity and personalization in your choice.

modern front door designs

One of the more interesting ideas this year is for handles to be shaped into the house’s street number, however, handle-less doors are also becoming increasingly popular.

Electronic keypads which use either number entry, key fob or even fingerprint recognition are on the rise and can add an extra element of innovation to your overarching design.

Knowing Your Tastes

With more choices than ever before, choosing a front door can now be tailored closer to your personal tastes. Once you’ve decided on a suitable budget, picking a material and some preferred colour choices can help you on the way in narrowing down this selection.

Beyond that, knowing what’s available is all important. At Imperial Windows and Doors, we have been helping match and install doors with happy customers for over 10 years already. For more information about our available range and services, contact us now to speak to an expert.

The front entrance of your home serves as a focal point to the property. As such, the entry door should speak volumes, representing the style, personality, and demeanour of your family. When the door fails to provide this detail, it may very well be time for a replacement.

There are a variety of reasons why a front entry door may no longer meet your needs or fail to provide the impression you set to make. Numerous signs indicate the time has come to add new entry doors to your home. Pay attention to those signs and take action immediately if they’re present at your home.

Top 5 Signs You Need a New Front Door

Replacing the entrance door will refresh the brilliance of your home and award you the peace of mind and confidence in your property that you deserve. Here is a list of five top signs that indicate you need new entrance doors.

Gaps Between the Doors & Frame

Gaps between the door and the frame occur naturally as the door ages. If you notice wind drafts when you walk past the front door, these gaps are the likely culprit. Although draft door stoppers are sold at home improvement stores for just a few bucks, these tools provide only a temporary solution to the problem and oftentimes fail to efficiently keep the drafts out of the house, deeming them unreliable.

Furthermore, they don’t help with the functionality problems that your door likely experiences when there are gaps, not to mention the decreased appearance and safety at your property.

Cracks or Warps

Wind, weather, and age are common reasons for a crack or warp in the front door, though the potential causes of damage are endless. Ask any parent and they’ll tell you that list increases considerably. Regardless of the cause of the crack, it is imperative that replacement is made quickly.

signs to replace door

Cracks and warped door frames make a great entryway for insects and allow air and heat to escape and enter the home, causing increased energy usage and costs. Cracks and warps also weaken the door’s structure, inevitably causing the need for replacement.

Your Door Makes You Cringe

Maybe the door was everything that you wanted when it was installed 5 years ago, but now that you’ve grown and matured, it simply does not bring the same flair and charm that it did at one time. Perhaps you are remodelling the entire home and want the door to reflect the new decor and changes.

Change is always a good thing, especially when you cannot stand the sight of your entry door another day. The many amazing entrance door options available alleviate worries that you won’t find a door that meets your needs. There is a front entrance door for every need and every home style! If you are unhappy with your home’s main focal point, do something about it while you can.

Squeaking/Noises

Forget pulling any April Fools jokes on your roommates or sneaking in on the kids when the door is squeaking or otherwise making loud, cringe-worthy noises every time it is touched. These odd noises aren’t normal and signal trouble with the door.

do i need to replace door

The noises are oftentimes caused by the simple age of the door but sometimes occur after damage. Replacing the squeaky door gives you back the fun that you might’ve lost, as well as an awesome, stylish new entrance that doesn't make noises when you are ready to pull the joke of a lifetime!

Damaged Doors

Is your entrance door literally falling off the hinges? It is safe to say this door has run its course and offered all of the benefits that it possibly can. Now is a good time to replace it. Even when the damage isn't as severe as the door falling off the hinges, it is important that you recognize the signs of damage to protect yourself, your home, and the people that you love the most.

A damaged front entrance door puts everyone's safety at risk. Plus, a damaged front door considerably diminishes the appearance of the home and leaves other people with a poor impression of your property.

Entrance Door Options

Choosing energy-efficient doors creates a more comfortable environment inside of your interior space, with every family member appreciating the added comfort. New doors change the overall ambiance of the home and improve the energy-loss that you’ve likely become accustomed to.

The material is important, but more so due to the aesthetic appeal and costs, since most of the air that seeps through the doors does so via gaps. Compare costs of the various materials to find an effective material for your budget.

A double or triple-pane glass is the best glass option if you want this addition. Although doors are equipped with locks, it is always simple to add a deadbolt should you desire. Nonetheless, it is important to choose a door that has quality locks that protect your home. The cost of professional installation is reasonable if you prefer to leave the job in the hands of the experts.

Make the Call

If the signs above are present in your home, call Imperial Windows & Doors to learn more about today’s stylish, energy-efficient entrance door options and revamp your home. Their doors come in a variety of sizes, colours, designs, and styles that perfectly accommodate the desires (and budget) of every homeowner.  Free estimates are available upon request and help you understand just how little it can cost to add a new entrance door on your home.

Your front door is one of the first impressions people will get from your house. So you want a stylish one, right? But you need to consider practicalities when shopping for your front door as well as style. We have some knowledge to share with you on how to purchase your front entry door.

There are a number of different factors you need to take into consideration when it comes to purchasing a new front entry door for your home. To make this process easier, we've created this how to post outlining some of the things you should think about before buying new doors.

Protecting Your Home with a Solid Door

Of course you'll need to consider the safety aspects of your front door. This is going to be a feature of your house which gets the most attention, this can be unwanted attention! It's rarely the door itself that will let unwanted visitors into your home (unless it's hollow). 

how to buy entry doors

There isn't normally a huge difference between materials for front entry doors when it comes to safety. The difference is the type of lock the door has. In a nut shell, You'll need to ensure you're getting a strong locking system for your front door to keep your home safe.  

Choose a Single Manufacturer

It's worth mentioning that when buying your new front entry doors all the components will be better from the same manufacturer. This is because they will fit like a jigsaw! By staying with the one manufacturer you will be sure to have a smooth fit. 

Energy-Efficient Options

Now this is something that is very individual factor when buying your front door. You may be looking for a door that has good insulating qualities. However this is only beneficial if your whole house is well insulated as the front door is only a small portion of your house.

If you have a well insulated house and you're looking for a door which maintain this, there are certain materials which will be best to look at. Doors made of fiberglass and steel tend to have more success with insulation. The doors with the best insulating value will be energy star qualified.  

Front Door Material: Fiberglass vs Steel

Front doors are made of various materials, each of which has their strengths and weaknesses, so it really depends on preference. We will list the materials pros and cons to give you an overview of each, this may help you make your decision. 

Fiberglass Entry Doorshow to buy entry doors

Fiberglass Door Pros

Fiberglass Door Cons

Steel Entry Doors how to buy entry doors

Steel Door Pros

Steel Door Cons

As you can see the materials vary in their features. When choosing, it depends which of the above are most important to you as an individual. We hope this overview of materials has given you the information you need to make your decision! 

Entry Door Features

This list of features available for doors is endless. It would probably take you all day to find out about all of the features available! However there are some that need consideration before purchasing your front door.   

Adjustable Thresholds

An adjustable threshold will give your front door durability. By adding this feature your front door will be weather resistant for a longer period of time. Nobody wants to be caught out in the winter that's for sure!  

Door Glass Options

Glass is normally added for presentation. Although it's pleasing to the eye it may not be the most practical addition. However we understand that this is an option many would like to consider. If you're considering glass inserts it's important to ensure you've got the best locking system to suit that particular style.

how to buy entry doors

This is so that burglars can't simply break the glass and let themselves in. Glass inserts can also reduce the doors insulating value. It's best to consider double or triple panel glass.  

Rails and Stiles

These are used to brace a wood door. It's best to look for rails and stiles made of laminated wood and covered in veneer. Choosing this material will ensure you have the greatest resistance to warping. 

The above features are discusses due to being more practical additions. You are able to find many which will improve the presentation of your front door such as glass designs and sidelights. Of course this will put a bigger dent in your wallet though!  

Choosing Front Door Presentation Style

So we've spoken about the practical side of things. Let's talk about presentation. As much as some of us don't want to admit it but style plays a big part in our decisions, and why not? There's no shame in wanting to have a front door that sits beautifully with your house!  

how to buy entry doors

Save the best until last. Once you've decided on your materials it's time to search for that perfect front entry door!  

Updating Your Front Doors

Now you've made all the decisions on your perfect front entry door it's time to buy! Look at it as an investment on your home, a stylish and practical one! We hope we've given you enough information to assist you with this decision. Our aim is to help you feel confident in making your purchase.  

It's also worth mentioning that it can be difficult to fit doors correctly. Unless you're a skilled carpenter then we suggest letting a professional take this off your hands. There can be issues arise when fitting a new door whether it be to replace an old one or a new house. Only a professional will likely know how to manage these issues and fit the door correctly.  

We have a helpful team available to assist you with your search. Take a look at our doors we have available today, we're sure you'll find one that fits what you're looking for!

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