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Secure and Stylish: 14 Best Exterior Doors for Your Home's Protection and Curb Appeal

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Step into the world of exterior doors with our comprehensive roundup, designed to help you make the perfect addition to your home or building. In this article, we will showcase a range of top-rated exterior doors, offering you the ultimate guide to selecting the right one that suits both your aesthetic preferences and practical needs.

As an Amazon Associate, I may earn from qualified purchases.

Reviews

greatview-doors-36-in-x-80-in-fiberglass-3-4-lite-left-hand-inswing-fiberglass-painted-prehung-front-1

I recently had the pleasure of installing a Greatview Doors FGK521SGL36L in my home and let me tell you, it's been a game-changer! The black fiberglass door instantly upgraded the entrance to my humble abode. The 36-inch by 80-inch size fit perfectly into the rough opening, and the satin nickel-finished sill added an extra touch of elegance.

The 3/4 lite left-hand inswing door was an excellent choice, not too overpowering in size that it overwhelmed the space. Although the actual size of the door had a small deviation from the specified one, it didn't really impact the overall look and feel of the door.

Another notable feature was the rough opening height and width, which perfectly fit the new door. The prehung door made installation a breeze, and the fact that it was painted ready saved a lot of time.

However, I did encounter a minor issue with the installation. Despite the easy-to-install nature of the door, there were some slight gaps because the door size mismatched with the jamb. I'm curious if this issue occurred during shipping or maybe it was just a manufacturing mistake. Despite this setback, the door's good looks more than compensated for it.

All in all, the Greatview Doors FGK521SGL36L met my visual appeal expectations. If it wasn't for the slight gap, it would have been perfect. This is a beautiful choice if you are looking for an affordable, high-quality door with a modern touch.

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Experience the charm of the Arts and Crafts movement with the Craftsman Knotty Alder 6 Lite Exterior Door Slab from Krosswood Doors. This stylish door boasts a handcrafted design that combines strength and durability with attractive, natural wood grain and unique knotting. Measuring 36 inches by 80 inches with a thickness of 1.75 inches, this door features six clear glass panels that bring in natural light, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Customers have rated this door highly for its attractive appearance and sturdy construction. It is well-suited for front doors due to its impressive size and design. However, some users have mentioned issues with missing parts, damaged items, and unresponsive customer service. Overall, the Craftsman Knotty Alder 6 Lite Exterior Door Slab offers a unique and stylish addition to any home, but be prepared for a few potential hiccups during the installation process.

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Ever wondered how to make your home stand out from the rest? The Greatview Doors Knotty Alder Unfinished Prehung Front Door is just what you need. This door, boasting a 3/4 lite left-hand inswing design, is crafted from stunning knotty alder wood and features clear-beveled tempered glass panels, adding an instant upgrade to your entryway.

The door arrives prehung, so installation is a breeze; it measures 37.75 inches in width and 82 inches in height. Its solid core design ensures durability, and with its bronze-finish sill, it's a perfect addition to any home, from modern farmhouse to traditionally styled abodes.

The product also boasts weatherstripping for a tight seal, and at 175 pounds, it's sturdy enough to last for years. However, potential users should be aware that, while the door has been designed to be energy-efficient, it is not Energy Star certified. Additionally, the door arrives unfinished, meaning it will need to be painted or stained to meet the desired look.

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I recently got my hands on the CALHOME Modern Exterior Fiberglass Front Entry Door and let me tell you, it did not disappoint. The sleek black finish combined with the decorative 5 lite glass panel really makes a statement.

Not to mention, it's reversible door handling, which is super helpful when you're redecorating or flipping a house. The installation process was a breeze and the door fits perfectly. The only drawback was that the door was slightly heavier than I anticipated, but that's a small price to pay for the style and protection it provides.

Overall, a great addition to any modern home.

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I recently had the opportunity to try the Argos Modern Front Steel Door from Belldinni Finish, and let me tell you, it exceeded my expectations in terms of both style and function. The steel frame and slab are zinc-galvanized, providing durability and ensuring a long-lasting performance. One of the most notable features is the triple-sealed, translucent frosted glass with silk-screen printing using ceramic inks. Not only does it give the door a sleek appearance, but it also provides a sense of security.

The Argos door is an energy-saving weatherproof model with excellent insulation properties, thanks to the two thermal breaks, high-density polystyrene foam, and glued laminated bar. The stainless steel threshold is reinforced by a galvanized steel frame, providing even more protection against harsh weather conditions.

Not only was the product itself impressive, but the customer service was top-notch. From the moment I contacted Belldinni, I felt supported in my decision-making process, and the attention to detail helped me choose the perfect fit for my home. The installation process was smooth, and the instructions provided were clear and easy to follow.

Overall, I am thrilled with my Argos Modern Front Steel Door from Belldinni Finish. Its combination of style, function, and durability make it the perfect addition to any home.

5500-series-residential-outswing-steel-entry-door-9-lite-window-rh-32-inch-x-76-inch-white-1

The Kinro 5500 Series Residential Outswing Steel Entry Door is a top-notch choice for homeowners looking for a secure, classically designed entryway. Crafted with heavy-duty, galvanized steel and adorned with various window configurations, this door provides both safety and curb appeal. Its insulating polystyrene foam core ensures your home stays cozy, while its HUD compliance guarantees top-quality construction.

With numerous positive reviews, the 5500 Series is a reliable addition to any home.

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The Krosswood Douglas Fir Farmhouse Exterior Door with 6-Lite Window is a stunning addition to any home. Its Douglas Fir wood boasts a beautiful straight pronounced grain, perfect for staining or applying a natural clear coat. The Low-E Beveled Insulated Glass adds a timeless touch, while ensuring the best thermal performance.

However, some users have experienced issues with the staining, incorrect door jams, and non-existent customer service. The 1.0 rating reflects the concerns customers have faced, and potential buyers should consider the pros and cons before making a purchase.

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Elevate the visual appeal of your entryway with this exquisite MP Doors Fiberglass Entry Door. With a complete composite edging and full composite frame system, enjoy the peace of mind knowing it's 100% waterproof, resistant to rotting, warping, and rusting, while maintaining its elegance year-round. This Energy Star qualified door offers energy-efficient features designed to keep your energy costs low, perfect for the environmentally-conscious homeowner.

Designed using a user-friendly, low-maintenance approach, expect this sturdy door to look fantastic for a long time. Made available in Medium Oak color, choose from a variety of stylish options to match your home's aesthetic. Adding a touch of warmth and sophistication, this exterior door promises to enhance the impression your home makes to visitors and passersby alike.

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This stunning Hemlock 5-Lite Exterior Door Slab from Krosswood Doors is a striking addition to any modern home. With its minimalistic design and clean lines, it exudes sophistication and class. Each door is crafted with precision and care, resulting in a sturdy and durable piece that will stand the test of time.

One of the highlights of this door is its smooth wood grain, which provides a flawless surface for painting or staining. The door's five clear glass panels allow ample natural light to filter in, while the stable doweled construction ensures that it remains strong and secure. Moreover, Krosswood Doors offers customizable sizes, so you can find the perfect fit for your space.

However, some customers have reported issues with the door's quality and finishing process. While the majority have expressed satisfaction with their purchases, a few have noted that their doors arrived bent or damaged. Additionally, a couple of users experienced difficulty with staining the wood, resulting in an unfinished appearance.

Overall, the Hemlock 5-Lite Exterior Door Slab from Krosswood Doors is a beautiful and well-constructed addition to any home. Its minimalist design and customizable sizes make it a standout choice, but buyers should be prepared to spend time and effort on the finishing process.

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The Multus, a stunning horizontal plank wood exterior door from ETO Doors, takes your home's entrance to the next level. Measuring 36 inches by 80 inches, this beautiful piece is crafted from mahogany, known for its rich hue and durability. It's designed with unmatched sturdiness, thanks to the fused, solid wood construction and a 3mm thick clear face that guards against warping, cracking, and splitting.

This door's unique integral panel design prevents shrinkage and splitting, while the stile and rail separation issue is rendered non-existent. A must-have for any home looking to make an impact with its entryway, the Multus is not just a door, but a statement piece that adds character and elegance to your living space.

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Experience timeless craftsmanship with the Douglas Fir 6-Lite Arch Top Exterior Door by Krosswood Doors. This stunning solid wood door is made from rot-resistant Douglas Fir, allowing for endless customization options, be it painting or staining.

Featuring six clear glass windows and a hand-finished V-groove panel, it adds an elegant touch to any entryway. However, be prepared for a few challenges. Users have reported inconsistent finish quality, with staining issues and awkward strike notches.

Despite these drawbacks, its distinctive design and unrivaled natural look make it an enticing addition to any home entrance.

30-in-x-80-in-6-lite-craftsman-primed-steel-prehung-left-hand-inswing-front-door-1

This 30-inch by 80-inch Steel Primed Prehung Left-Hand Inswing Front Door from JELD-WEN offers a premium experience in terms of durability and ease of maintenance. The high definition panels present an upscale appearance that complements any home décor style, enhancing curb appeal. However, users have reported some shortcomings in the quality of craftsmanship and durability, with issues including improper installation of hinges, misaligned jambs, and corroded screws.

The rust-resistant nature and strength of the door's construction are noteworthy along with its ease of opening and closing. The exterior Prehung door's design may require some adjustments upon installation, but overall, it serves as a functional and aesthetically appealing addition to a home.

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I recently had the opportunity to install the Masonite 9 Lite Steel Entry Door with No Brickmold in my front entryway. The product arrived well-packaged, and it was a breeze to unpack and set up. With its sleek, modern design and 9 Lite glass pattern, this door added an elegant touch to my home's exterior.

One feature I particularly appreciated was the high-definition panels, which closely resemble the appearance of a high-end wood door. The shadow lines added to the overall architectural interest, giving my home a sophisticated appearance. The door's primed white finish easily complemented the color palette of Behr paints, making it effortless to coordinate with other decorating elements.

However, there were a few drawbacks to this door. Firstly, I noticed that it was not as sturdy as I would have liked, especially when comparing it to other doors I've installed in the past. While it was functional, it lacked the solidity I had come to expect from high-quality doors. Additionally, I experienced issues with the door's weather resistance, as the door frame began to show signs of rot after just a few years of use.

Another concern I had was the ease of installation. Although the door arrived with instructions, I found them to be of poor quality, making the assembly process more challenging than it should have been. This led to some frustration and additional time spent during the installation.

In summary, the Masonite 9 Lite Steel Entry Door with No Brickmold is an attractive and elegant option for anyone looking to add a touch of style to their home's exterior. However, its lack of durability and less-than-ideal installation instructions should be taken into consideration.

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This unique 36 in. x 80 in. Arcada Black Surface Mount Outswing Steel Security Door is an attractive addition to any home, boasting sturdy construction and added security.

The steel frame with 1/2 in. square tube pickets deters intruders, and the powder-coat finish complements its sophisticated design. The galvanized expanded metal screen offers both security and visibility, making it a great choice for a variety of exteriors.

While some reviewers have noted a lack of durability and noisy operation, the majority agree that this security door is an easy installation and a stylish choice for enhancing your home's safety and appeal.

Buyer's Guide

In this buyer's guide section for exterior doors, we will discuss the key features, considerations, and advice when selecting the right exterior door for your home. From materials and styles to installation and maintenance, we've got you covered.

Materials

The material of the exterior door plays a crucial role in its durability, insulation, and aesthetic appeal. Common materials include wood, fiberglass, steel, and vinyl. Wood doors provide a natural look and are relatively easy to customize, but they require more maintenance. Fiberglass and steel doors are more durable and require less maintenance, but they might be more expensive. Vinyl doors are affordable and low-maintenance, but they have a limited appearance.

Styles

Exterior doors come in various styles to suit different architectural preferences and needs. Some popular styles include traditional, modern, and Mediterranean. Sliding doors, French doors, and entryways with glass panels are also options to consider. Remember that the style you choose should complement the existing design of your home.

Insulation and Weatherproofing

Ensure that your exterior door provides adequate insulation and is well-sealed against weather elements. Check for weatherstripping, which helps keep out drafts and maintains a comfortable indoor temperature. In addition, consider thermal breaks in the door frame to prevent heat loss and reduce condensation on the interior side of the door.

Security and Safety

Security should be a top priority when selecting an exterior door. Look for doors with robust locking mechanisms, such as deadbolts and electronic locks. A solid-core door constructed from materials like wood, fiberglass, or steel can provide better security than hollow core doors. Also, consider doors with reinforced frames and non-removable handles for added protection.

FAQ

What is the primary purpose of an exterior door?

The primary purpose of an exterior door is to provide protection and security for the home. It creates a barrier between the exterior elements and the interior of the house, keeping out rain, wind, insects, and potential intruders. Additionally, a well-constructed and properly installed exterior door can significantly improve energy efficiency by helping to regulate indoor temperature.

Exterior doors can also enhance the aesthetic appeal of a home's entrance, as they often serve as a statement piece. Some homeowners choose to personalize their front door with unique designs, colors, or patterns to reflect their style and personality. Furthermore, an exterior door is an essential aspect of overall curb appeal, which can positively influence resale value when it comes time to sell a property.

What are the different types of exterior doors?

There are four main types of exterior doors on the market: solid, hollow, fiberglass, and steel. All these options have unique features that cater to different needs and preferences. Hollow doors are lightweight and relatively inexpensive but may not be the most durable, while solid and fiberglass doors offer better insulation and durability but are typically more expensive.

Steel doors are known for their strength and durability but might not have the same level of thermal insulation as fiberglass. On the other hand, fiberglass doors provide excellent insulation properties and are also weather-resistant, making them a popular choice for homeowners who prioritize energy efficiency and low maintenance requirements. Ultimately, the best type of exterior door depends on various factors, such as budget, personal preferences, and the specific needs of the homeowner.

What materials can be used to make exterior doors?

Exterior doors can be constructed from various materials, including wood, fiberglass, steel, aluminum, and composite materials. Wood doors are popular for their classic appearance and natural insulation properties, but they require regular maintenance and have a shorter lifespan compared to other materials.

Fiberglass doors combine the appearance of wood with the durability and insulation of fiberglass. Steel doors are known for their high strength and durability, making them a popular choice for some homeowners. Aluminum doors are lightweight, offering good weather resistance and corrosion resistance. Composite doors are becoming increasingly popular as they usually provide a mix of performance features like energy efficiency, durability, and design versatility.

What is a thermally broken door?

A thermally broken door is a type of exterior door specifically designed to minimize heat loss and condensation. The process involves structurally breaking the continuous path of heat transfer between the interior and the exterior of the doorframe using a heat-insulating material. This results in doors that provide enhanced energy efficiency and better performance in extreme weather conditions.

By improving insulation, thermal-broken doors help to reduce energy bills, create a more comfortable living environment, and contribute positively to the green movement by lowering overall home energy consumption. Commonly used materials for thermally broken doors include fiberglass, steel, and aluminum.

What is the difference between single and double-door?

The primary distinction between a single-door and a double-door lies in their size and overall configuration. A single door measures approximately 36 inches wide and ranges from 72 to 84 inches in height, while a double-door is typically two single doors combined, with a width of 72 inches and a height of 84 inches.

Single doors work well for most entrances and are a more conventional and cost-effective choice for homes. However, the wider span of a double door can create a more grandiose entrance or improve accessibility for those using mobility assistance devices. Double doors tend to be more expensive and may require additional structural support during installation.

How can I determine the right size of door for my home?

To ensure a proper fit for the exterior door of your home, you'll need to measure the opening of your door frame. Start by measuring the width from one jamb to the other, and next, measure the height from the floor to the top of the frame. Be sure to take these measurements in multiple locations and use a level to ensure accuracy. Additionally, you may want to consider factors such as door type, insulation needs, and personal preferences when selecting the ideal size and style of door for your home.

It's always a good idea to consult with a professional door installer or representative to discuss specific requirements and receive expert advice on selecting the most suitable door options for your unique situation. They can provide further guidance and help you choose the right door type, size, and style for optimal functionality and aesthetic appeal.

As an Amazon Associate, I may earn from qualified purchases.

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