Getting a door or window replacement is one of the most important projects you can ever invest in when it comes to increasing the livability as well as the sellability of your home. Ignoring the problems that come with old doors and windows can lead to bigger concerns, including poor insulation and higher energy costs. However, when you decide to get a new product to replace your door or window, you can’t simply choose the first new product you see.
There are various options when it comes to replacing your old and battered door, which we will focus on in this post. It’s a good idea to ask yourself a few questions before finalizing your decision. Here are some of those questions:
1. What Kind of Door Do I Need?
A new door is an investment, so it’s advisable to choose exactly the right one for your home. For example, do you want a particular style that fits your home’s architecture? It’s also important to decide between subtlety, boldness or something in between.
Your new door should also be as energy-efficient as possible if you would like to control drafts and reduce your energy usage. And, finally, your new door should be secure enough for your protection and your peace of mind.
2. What Type of Material Is Best for the Door I Need?
You might be replacing your main entry door or, perhaps, that old patio door at the back of your house. If you’re in an area often visited by extreme weather events, you might be thinking about a storm door. The main purpose of the door is a reason to ask yourself what material will work best.
For example, wood is a classic material that offers rich textures. It fits just about any style of architecture, and most people appreciate a good, sturdy wood door. However, wood does have its limitations. For instance, it requires the most maintenance out of all your options, and it’s not the best choice if you’ll be installing it where plenty of sunlight will beat down on it.
You can also choose a door built with a strong composite material that offers superb durability and energy efficiency. If it’s a patio door you’re thinking about, then glass is probably part of the equation. Renewal by Andersen® offers great patio doors with High-Performance™ Low-E4® glass that’s known for its superior energy efficiency.
3. What Door Hardware Is Perfect for My Needs?
It’s not just the door itself that you have to think about during the process. There’s also the hardware that goes with it. Hardware is not just about the looks, but it’s also about the operability and the level of security. For example, if you’re concerned about turning a typical round knob because of arthritic hands, you might want to choose a lever that you only have to press down with your hand or wrist. And the material should be sturdy enough to withstand a reasonable amount of force.
There are many other questions you can come up with as you think about a new door. Renewal by Andersen of Northwest Ohio can answer your questions, whether about patio doors or about windows. Call us now at (419) 931-6970, or contact us here. We’re ready to help you in Toledo, OH.
