“Homeowners looking to save on rising energy bills can start right at the front door,.” said a product management expert in an article on the Daily Press. Aside from the usual wear and tear, this accounts for one of the biggest reasons why households should think about inspecting their doors annually. The need for greater energy-efficiency in homes is partly responsible for insisting that households throughout the country should have more of these ENERGY STAR-rated products.
Even a relatively functional and pristine door can be candidate for a major overhaul or replacement. For one thing, it is important that any brand-new door must meet the local building standards. Pennsylvania, for example, has specific requirements for the width of the door’s projection (not lower than 34 inches) and the amount of force needed to open or close it (about 5 pounds).
Delaware, meanwhile, makes it perfectly clear that windows and doors need to be able to fend off storm winds and heavy rain from entering indoors. Any weatherproofing materials installed should also meet the local ENERGY STAR standards. Finally, locks should be as reliable as possible, especially when it comes to sliding glass doors which are a favorite target of thieves and trespassers.
Contractors would often recommend topnotch brands from top door manufacturers that work with more technologically advanced materials in the market. Contractors like Homecraft Inc., which specializes in windows and doors in West Chester, PA, work in conjunction with ProVia Doors, for instance. This brand makes reinforced steel and fiberglass doors that are not only as durable as they come, but are also versatile and attractive as any high-end doors in the market. The same product expert advices:
“If it becomes apparent that you’re in the market for a new door, consider one made of fiberglass. A solid fiberglass door is up to four times more energy efficient than a solid wood door, plus you get the benefits that fiberglass has to offer, including resistance to rot, rust, dings and weather.”
A reliable contractor for doors in Wilmington, DE will offer reliable workmanship and product warranties in the event that a brand-new door fails to meet expectations. While there could be various reasons why doors need to be replaced, households are nonetheless encouraged to purchase only energy-efficient and secure replacement doors to suit their needs.
(Article Excerpt and Image from Tips for Deciding When to Replace a Front Door, Daily Press, November 13, 2013)
