If you need extra light in your hallway then a glass pane within the door panel might suit. A fanlight, (a glass panel above the door) or sidelights on one or both sides of the door panel can add an interesting design feature.
You can choose from double or triple glazing and a variety of glass types to help with solar gain, thermal efficiency and security. If privacy concerns you then opaque glass might offer peace of mind. Opaque glass also gives you the opportunity to have your house number or name picked out in clear glass.
Materials
Image: Timber FunkyFront door, Kloeber
Budget and material types for an entrance door go hand in hand – where the more budget conscious may opt for UPVC, those happy to spend a little more can choose hardwoods and aluminium.
Different material types will also have varying thermal properties so consider the U-values and the airtightness ratings when making this choice too. It is always a good idea to understand how the front door is constructed. Some panels have a void in the middle; this is more common in UPVC doors. Some doors have a timber core that is good for insulating; this is the case with a solid timber door or some composite doors.
The best thermal efficiency will come from a door with insulation in its core. To protect against air leakage you should chose a material that does not move, swell or bow with climatic change. Engineered timber is a very stable material that will have minimal movement and maintain a weather tight seal. Also, ensure that the frame is fitted in a thermally efficient way to prevent air and water coming through.
Timber doors are available in a greater number of styles, colours and panel designs and will suit a wider variety of properties. Thanks to modern microporous paints and stains, maintenance of timber doors is easier than it used to be. A high quality paint finish should only require maintenance every 8-10 years.
Aluminium doors have a contemporary feel and are more suited to a modern style of property. Larger door panels are available in aluminium and due to a powder-coated finish; they are extremely durable and resistant to corrosion therefore a low-maintenance option.
Handles and hinges
Image: Timber KlassicFront door, Kloeber
The final addition to any door is the look and specification of the furniture. This can make or break the aesthetic and on-going usability. Modern door furniture, including knobs, knockers, hinges, letter-plates and handles, comes in a range of different styles and finishes such as polished chrome, brushed steel or brass. Be sure to match the style of furniture with the style of the door. Don’t go too modern on a traditional panelled door and perhaps stay away from a shiny brass handle on an ultra-sleek modern door.
Energy Efficiency
Image: Timber FunkyFront door, Kloeber
The energy efficiency of your front door is more important than you may think. Front doors often lead into a hallway where there is access to other rooms. If this main access point to your home is not energy efficient then it can have quite an effect on the rest of the house. Overall energy ratings can help you choose an energy efficient product.
The U-value, a measure of thermal transmittance, which is the value of heat loss through the product, should be lower than 1.8 for a replacement front door. The L-value is a measure of air permeability, which is tested and measured in ‘Pascals’ (the higher the better). The G-value, solar factor, is the percentage of solar energy that passes through glass. Both U-value and L value are much more important than the solar factor, which only really applies to products with a large amount of glass where the UV light and heat can get through.
Security
Image: Timber KlassicFront door, Kloeber
Doors for new build properties need to comply with document Q of the Building Regulations (security in new dwellings). This does not apply to a new door on an existing property but the testing is still relevant to ensure you are getting a secure door. For enhanced security, look for doors that have passed the strict testing and auditing for Secured By Design certification.
A visit to a showroom is important to get a feel for the door’s quality and to understand the difference between materials and styles. Discuss your needs with a reputable supplier who will be able to look at your plans or your existing property and help you make the right choice.
Are you in the process of choosing a front door for a self build or renovation? Share your thoughts with us by tweeting us or post a comment on our Facebook page.
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