Entry doors come in many different shapes, styles, and sizes. With so many options to choose from, it can be tough to settle on a colour, not to mention other design options. Once you have decided between steel, wood, and fiberglass, it’s time to figure out what size front door you need.
Regular, single entry doors are probably the most popular option for many homes. Because they are the smallest of all the options, they are obviously the most affordable. Smaller sized homes also usually opt for single front doors since they don’t have large entrance halls. Apart from this, a large, double door would look out of place in a small home.
For those who are leaning towards a single door but they want to add some more style and allow more natural light to filter through, then sidelites are certainly an option. Sidelites can be installed in a number of ways. You could choose just one to the left or right of the door, or you could install one on either side of the door. A transom is another way of letting in light without taking up any space or sacrificing your privacy. Transoms are like sidelites except they are located above the entry door and they are often installed along with sidelites on either side of the door.
Best of all, sidelites and transoms can be ordered according to the style of the door itself. Which means that they will complement one another perfectly for the ultimate visual appeal.
Another option is to install a double door. Like single front doors, double doors can be installed with or without sidelites and transoms. They look best with sidelites on either side and a transom overhead, provided it suits the style of your home and your front window designs. Remember to consider the appearance of your windows and the style of your exterior and interior décor when choosing your entry door. Just as single doors suit smaller homes, so too do double doors suit larger homes with ample entrance hall space. It’s also important to note that double doors need not both be opened every time you enter or exit. These doors operate independently with one main door and the other secondary door.
The main advantage of double doors is that they make it extremely easy to move large items, such as furniture, in and out of your home.
Have you ever tried moving something like a sofa or large refrigerator in through the front door? Sure, some kinds of furniture come in boxes and are ready for you to assemble yourself. Others are already large and tough to maneuver. Open both of your double doors to make life that much easier.
That said, an important factor to consider when it comes to double doors is that they may need adjusting from time to time. A regular door has support from the door frame on all four sides. Double doors have support on four sides but the midsection, where the two doors meet, has less support, and it’s important to inspect your front door on a regular basis. Any changes in the way the door operates or its appearance can often be remedied quite easily by simply adjusting the working parts like the hinges. Another common misconception is that double doors are less energy efficient. This might be the case if the door is not properly maintained and inspected on a regular basis. Any gaps or spaces that allow air or water infiltration should be remedied immediately in order to maintain the highest levels of energy efficiency. A professional installation is the best way to ensure that your doors are fitted correctly from the start.
Check out our range of beautiful entry doors at ALDA Windows and Doors. Phone (416) 807-4242 today for your free in-home estimate.