Whether you are simply making simple upgrades to your home or completing a major renovation, a steel entry door is a great option over wood or fiberglass. Even though they are generally used in commercial buildings and garage doors, more homeowners are upgrading to existing doors with the steel variety. Installing a durable steel door in the front, back or side of your home can improve your home’s energy efficiency and security.
First and foremost, do a little research on the different models and additional options. Think about buying a standard, pre-fabricated steel entry door or have one custom made to your liking. There are numerous options if you decide to customize it. Take your time shopping as you will be presented with a multitude of styles and finishes like a basic primed door ready for painting, vinyl coated in a beautiful wood-grain pattern, or even a wood-fiber coating you can stain, yourself.
Steel entry doors generally come in 16-25 gauge steel and higher end doors are 26 gauge. The higher the gauge, the heavier and sturdier it will be. They are filled with a foam insulation to produce a thermal barrier and the frame underneath the steel outer skin will be made of either wood or steel. Expect to pay about $100-$150 for a basic door, and higher prices based on customization and features.
Although steel entry doors are often more cost-effective than wood or fiberglass, they do have their drawbacks. The Do-It-Yourself homeowner may find them hard to install, mainly because they are very heavy. Some come coated with a polyester finish or a vinyl coating. Vinyl is the most durable but should not be painted; should they become stained or discolored, they will need to be carefully cleaned specifically according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Steel doors primed with a coating suitable for painting are easier to scratch, but will allow for cosmetic upgrades such as painting or finishing. Dents can be removed in the same way that dents are removed from cars.
When searching for steel doors online or in local stores, choose stores that that specialize in them, because the staff is usually more knowledgeable. That will ensure you are happy with your final purchase. Notable companies like JELD-WEN, Benchmark, Pelle and Masonite all have highly informative websites where you can find a dealer or local store near you. Shop online first to see what styles are available, and then choose the features and accents you want. Masonite carries the Masonite HD Steel and Sta-Tru HD Steel doors. They even have a door designer program built into their website to help you. JELD-WEN carries many models including Energy Steel, FiniShield and Gladiator steel, all ENERGY STAR qualified doors.
Choose carefully which door(s) to install for your home, as they are a focal point when placed on the front of your home, and you most likely will keep those doors for a long time. If you need privacy and security, then a solid steel entry door is for you. If style is your main concern, then consider choosing a striking pattern and adding sidelights or spend more money for a double-door entry. Complete the look with your choice of hardware and accents.