The Benefits of Choosing a New Steel Entry Door
If your front door is damaged or worn, then it may be time to start shopping for a new front door. You have many style options available to you and you can choose from a wide variety of materials as well. When you look at materials, you should consider a steel door. Steel doors have many advantages over both wood and fiberglass options. Keep reading to learn about some of these advantages.
Incredible Strength
Steel has the benefit of being one of the strongest materials that can be used to create a front door. In many cases, doors are made from 20 to 26 gauge steel. This means the door will be between about .02 and .04 inches thick. The thickest and most secure doors are made from 20 gauge steel. Many reputable entry door specialist will sell 20 gauge doors, because they are better at resisting dents and warping issues. Keep in mind that you can opt for a 22 gauge door as well, especially if you are concerned about weight and this should still provide you with the strength and security that you need.
Steel doors resist wear extremely well and they are one of the most burglar proof options that you can choose from. While this is true, you want to look for a few add-ons or additions that make the door as secure as possible. A reinforced door is a good choice and this door will have open steel beams that run down the length of the door. Thicker beams may run along the very edge or frame of the door as well, and these features help to keep a burglar from kicking in the door to gain access to your house.
You also want a door that has a solid steel lock block or a plated handle and lock construction. These things incorporate thick layers of steel along the more sensitive security areas of the door.
Good Insulation
When it comes to insulation and energy efficiency, both fiberglass and steel are rated well. While fiberglass does provide good insulation, steel is often a better choice when it comes to reducing heat loss from the home. Steel doors are often sealed better around the edges and remain tight in door frames. The doors do not swell or with the changes in the weather, and neither does the frame since it is also made from steel in most cases.
Also, most steel doors are made with a layer of insulation in the middle. Make sure that you opt for insulated doors if energy efficiency is a concern of yours. Keep in mind that you can purchase both reinforced and insulated doors. Many people believe they can choose one or the other. However, insulation materials can be positioned around reinforcing beams.
The insulation material is typically a sheet of polystyrene. This solid foam material is ideal because it will not disintegrate or fall as it ages. Since the door cannot be opened so that insulation can be replaced, this is a good solution to offering insulation stability over a long period of time.
Another thing to consider when looking at energy efficiency is the window that is installed within the door. Solar heat gain may be just as much of an issue as heat loss. Look for either a window that is a double or triple pane variety with a UV protective coating.
If you want a new entry door replacement on your home, then speak with a door contractor like Rolox Home Service in your area. The professional can provide you with a variety of options to choose from and he also will be able to tell you about the benefits you can experience by choosing a steel door.