How to choose your front door? When one builds one’s house, one chooses most often its door of entry according to criteria of aesthetics and security. The idea of the performance comes after. It is true that your gateway will be the first impression you give to your visitors. Classic or contemporary, you need to find your style without forgetting that it will protect you from the heat, cold and ensure your safety. Do not forget that it participates in the thermal and sound insulation of buildings particularly for the calculation of thermal bridges.
What material for your door?
The choices of materials for your door are varied. They each have their advantages in terms of thermal insulation but some are more efficient than others. It’s up to you to make your choice according to your preferences and budget knowing that you can opt for a solid door, a semi-glazed door, or a glass door for more brightness.
Wood
For an authentic and robust entrance door, wood is a good option. Several species exist: oak, larch, pine that are treated insecticide and fungicide or exotic woods, which themselves are naturally rot-proof. Wood is a noble and sturdy material that resists well in time but will require regular maintenance even if it is treated. Its last advantage will be the ease to change the color of your door.
Aluminum
For a very resistant door at an affordable price, aluminum is a good alternative with a variety of styles, sizes and colors. Be careful though because aluminum is cold conductor. It will be necessary to provide insulating panels to ensure good thermal performance. Some manufacturers offer monobloc doors adapted to cold weather.
PVC
A PVC door has huge advantages with very good insulating performance, a great choice of styles and colors, no maintenance and, most importantly, a very reasonable price. Its major disadvantage will be security.
Steel
Cheaper than wood and aluminum, the steel door is the best solution to prevent break-ins. For good thermal performance, steel should be combined with other materials. Its disadvantages remain its weight, its aesthetic appearance and its sensitivity to corrosion. (To be avoided by the sea). Hörmann, for example, with its range “ThermoPro” focuses on safety, thermal insulation and design at very attractive prices.
Glass
If you want a lot of light, opt for a glazed entrance door. With the increasing number of break-ins, today manufacturers offer double or triple glazing. You can also add 1 burglar proof film or security bars.
The composite
Made from molded fiberglass, the composite is the latest addition to the doorway ranges. Thanks to its density, it will guarantee you an excellent acoustic and thermal insulation and its resistance will protect you from possible burglars. With many decorative finishes, this is the ideal entryway if your budget allows it.
