New front door can transform exterior

Transform your home with a new entryway and take advantage of the energy-saving features as well as the fresh, welcome appearance.

Photo courtesy Debbie Travis

Q: We will be selling our house in the fall and want to give it some added curb appeal. How much work and expense is involved in putting in a new front door? I was thinking of adding side glass panels.

A: Replacing your entry door will not only transform the exterior of your home, but also your front hall. Any rooms that open onto the hall will reap the benefit of a new design, and if you add glass panels, more light.

There’s a lot to consider, and a wide choice of style and colour. Entrance doors come in wood, fibreglass and steel.

Wood is a traditional favourite with authentic designs to match your architectural style, whether Victorian, Colonial or Craftsman. Fibreglass and steel doors look like wood and offer low maintenance, weather resistance and durability. They’re also budget friendly.

Various designs available with either partial or full privacy, while allowing light to shine through. Glass inserts or metal fretwork can be installed as part of the door as well.

The opening will have to be enlarged if you add side panels or a wider door. A professional contractor can give you an estimate of cost. A wide door adds room to manoeuvre, whether you are carrying a baby, a bag of groceries, or need extra space for a wheelchair or walker. That’s one more important element to consider.