Your front door is more than just an entry point; it’s the guardian of your home, providing security and a welcoming first impression. But like any hardworking element of your house, it won’t last forever. So, how long should a front door last?
This is a common question we are asked by homeowners who stop by our door sales depot.
The answer depends on three key factors: material, weather, and maintenance. Let’s explore how different materials weather the elements (pun intended!), and what you can do to keep your door performing its best for years to come.
How Long a Front Door Should Last Depends on What it’s Made of
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Fiberglass Doors: Offering a balance of beauty and brawn, fiberglass doors can hold their own for up to 50 years. They can mimic the look of wood but stand strong against moisture, warping, and heat.
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Wood Doors: The classic choice, wood doors exude elegance but require more TLC. Depending on the wood type, they can last 10 to 20 years. However, they’re susceptible to warping, rot, and insect damage in extreme weather conditions. The sun is also tremendously damaging to wood doors (see below).
How Weather Affects Your Front Door’s Longevity
The climate can take a toll on doors. Here’s how:
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Temperature Swings: Extreme heat can cause wood doors to warp and crack, while cold temperatures can make them brittle. Here in central North Carolina, we can experience both extremes in a relatively short period of time, which can be especially rough on front doors. Fiberglass doors handle temperature fluctuations better than wood. That’s because Fiberglass doors are less likely to expand and contract in temperature swings than wood doors are.
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Humidity: High humidity is particularly damaging to wood doors, as it promotes rot and mildew growth. Fiberglass doors are less affected.
- Sunlight: Over time, wood doors exposed to direct sunlight will typically dry out, and may then crack and warp. They will also almost certainly fade from continual sun exposure. By contrast, fiberglass doors are generally unaffected by sun exposure.
It’s important to note that there are some things you can do to protect your front door from the elements. Using shade trees or an awning or overhang to protect your door from direct sunlight, especially if it’s a wood door, can help extend the life of your door.
What You Should Do to Make Your Front Door Last as Long As Possible
No matter the material your front door is made from, some TLC goes a long way:
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Regular Cleaning: Wipe down your door with a damp cloth and a mild cleaning solution to remove dirt, dust, and cobwebs. This helps prevent the buildup of grime, which can damage the finish.
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Seasonal Maintenance: For wood doors, inspect for cracks and warping annually. Apply a fresh coat of sealant or paint every few years to protect the wood from moisture damage.
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Weatherstripping Check: Weatherstripping creates a tight seal around the door, preventing drafts and leaks. Inspect it for wear and tear, and replace it if necessary.
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Hardware Maintenance: Keep hinges lubricated and tighten loose screws to ensure smooth operation and prevent misalignment.
Front Door Installation
When you have questions about your home’s doors, you want answers from professionals you can trust. Here at Window Works Co., we give homeowners the facts so that they can make the best choice for their home, their family, and their budget.
If you have questions about replacing your front door, use the calendar below to set up a consultation call with Window Works Co. We’ll be happy to help you find the perfect new front door.
