If you are looking to add a little extra “curb appeal” to your home, replacing the front door is one of the easiest ways to achieve that goal. There are hundreds of styles available, but usually a new front door is going to be made from one of several popular materials. Each of them has their own advantages and disadvantages, some of which are explained here:

Steel – Steel doors are usually the most inexpensive replacement door option available today. They can be found in a myriad of styles and colors, including some that have an embossed wood grain pattern. A steel door may be your best bet if security considerations are part of the reason that you are replacing an entry door. They are stronger than all the other options and will not warp or crack. On the other hand they do dent rather easily and really need to be repainted or refinished every couple of years to prevent rust.

Fiberglass Composite – Fiberglass composite doors are usually a little more expensive than their steel counterparts. Most fiberglass composite doors mimic the appearance of real wood very well and come in a number of different finishes and colors. Although they are tough, a fiberglass door may eventually crack if slammed shut too hard once too many times.

Aluminum – Aluminum doors have a baked on enamel finish that should never need repainting or refinishing once installed and maintain their appearance for years. They can be purchased in solid or wood grain designs and are just as hardy as steel doors but considerably more expensive.

Wood – Solid wood front doors are the most expensive replacement option of all. Though not always the most secure option they are usually the most visually appealing. If you choose a wood door look for one with a furniture grade finish, as anything less than that will warp and scratch easily.

Unless you are a very experienced handyman (or woman), once you have picked out your perfect new entrance door have a professional install it. Ill fitting doors will leech heat from your home as well as present a possible security breach for potential intruders.