Exterior Door Types
Upgrade your Milwaukee home with a new exterior door from Semper Fi Roofing & Exteriors, the top local door contractor for more than 20 years. Our skilled door replacement experts can help you better understand the different door types available, helping you decide which will work best with your home and our Wisconsin climate.
To take the next step toward replacing your exterior doors, please call us at 262-544-4885 or contact us online today.
Different Exterior Door Types and Materials
Here in Milwaukee, we experience a range of weather extremes from cold winters to blazing hot summers and everything in between. To help keep your home at a more comfortable temperature year-round, consider choosing one of the following door types for your home:
- Fiberglass doors: When you want the look of wood but greater durability and resistance to the elements, consider a fiberglass exterior door. Local homeowners love fiberglass because it is low maintenance and energy-efficient.
- Fire doors: Fire-rated doors are what separate your house from the garage. Made from fire-resistant materials, these are designed to prevent the spread of smoke and fire and are crucial for building safety.
- French doors: Add elegance and charm to your home by installing two-hinged French doors that swing inward or outward. This option is commonly used for entrances to decks and gardens or as interior dividers between rooms.
- Garage service doors: Made from high-quality steel, garage doors can withstand harsh weather extremes while keeping your home safe and secure from would-be intruders.
- Sliding patio doors: One of the most popular exterior door options, sliding patio doors connect indoor and outdoor areas and are typically found in homes with a backyard or patio area. Homeowners love sliding patio doors because they provide ample natural light and easy access to outdoor areas.
- Steel entry doors: Known for durability and security, steel doors are most often used in entryways, particularly in newer construction or on properties where security is a top priority.
- Storm doors: You can install these in front of exterior doors to protect against harsh weather conditions like rain, snow, and wind. They often feature interchangeable screens or glass panels.
How to Choose the Right Door for Your Milwaukee Home
When choosing the right door for your home, you should consider several factors, including aesthetics, functionality, security, energy efficiency, and budget. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you decide:
- Think about energy efficiency: A well-insulated door can help reduce energy costs by preventing heat loss or gain. Look for doors with energy-efficient cores and weatherstripping to keep your home comfortable year-round.
- Assess maintenance requirements: Consider how much time and effort you want to invest in maintaining your door. Wood doors may require periodic staining or painting, while fiberglass and steel doors are generally lower maintenance.
- Evaluate material options: Each door material has its advantages and disadvantages. For example, wood offers classic charm but requires more maintenance, while steel provides added security but may lack warmth. Fiberglass combines the look of wood with low maintenance.
- Think about natural light and views: If you’re choosing a door for a space that leads to your backyard or patio, consider options that maximize natural light and provide unobstructed views, such as sliding glass doors or French doors.
- Assess your needs: Think about the primary purpose of your door. Do you want a front entry door that makes a statement, a patio door that provides easy access to your backyard, or a secure garage door?
- Think about security features: Security is essential for any entry door. Look for options with strong locks, deadbolts, and reinforced frames. Steel doors are often recommended for their high level of security.
- Consider the style of your home: Your door should complement the architectural style of your home. For example, a modern steel door might look out of place in a historic Victorian home.
How to Know if Something Is Wrong With Your Home’s Door
Paying attention to various signs and symptoms can help you identify if there is something wrong with your door in Milwaukee. Here are some common indicators that it could be time to replace your door:
- Difficulty locking: If you have trouble locking or unlocking your door, there could be a problem with the lock mechanism or the alignment of the door and frame.
- Difficulty opening or closing: Is your door sticking, dragging, or rubbing against the frame when you try to use it? There may be an alignment issue or a problem with the hinges.
- Drafts or air leaks: Feel around the edges of your door for any drafts or air leaks. If you notice cold air coming in during the winter or warm air during the summer, it could indicate that the door isn’t sealing properly.
- Increased energy bills: If your energy bills have been higher than usual, it could be due to a poorly insulated or inefficient door allowing heat or cold air to escape.
- Loose hardware: Check the screws, bolts, and other hardware on your door to ensure they’re tight and secure. Loose hardware can cause the door to become misaligned or unstable.
- Squeaking or grinding sounds: If your door makes unusual noises when opening or closing, it could be a sign of wear and tear on the hinges or other moving parts. If lubricating the hinges doesn’t solve the problem, schedule an inspection.
- An uneven gap between door and frame: Inspect the gap between the door and frame to see if it’s consistent all the way around. An uneven gap could indicate that the door is sagging or the frame is warped.
- Visible damage: Check the door for any visible signs of damage, such as cracks, dents, or warping. These issues can compromise the door’s structural integrity.
- Water damage: Examine the door and surrounding areas for signs of water damage, such as rotting wood, mold, or mildew. Water intrusion can weaken the door and lead to more serious problems if left untreated.
Schedule Your Entry Door Replacement Today
After learning more about the different door types available and how to choose the right one for your home, the next step is to request a free quote and learn about financing options from Semper Fi Roofing & Exteriors.
To get started, please call 262-544-4885 or contact us online now.
Door Replacement FAQs
Can I install a new door myself or do I need to hire a professional?
Hiring a professional contractor for your door replacement helps to ensure the correct installation for maximum efficiency, security, and aesthetics. Unless you have experience working on a similar project, we recommend hiring an experienced door replacement contractor.
What type of door is most energy efficient?
Fiberglass is the most efficient option, as it’s a poor conductor of heat. Steel doors also offer excellent insulation, although they conduct heat, making them a bit less efficient than fiberglass. Wood doors tend to be the least efficient exterior door option.
