Ted Stumpf
Ted Stumpf, Windermere Napa Valley PropertiesPhone: (707) 246-9825
Email: [email protected]

What are the Pros and Cons of Wooden Entry Doors?

by Ted Stumpf 07/16/2023

Wood entry doors offer a rich elegance, enhancing curbside appeal. Although other front door materials deliver significant benefits, wood ranks as the most popular option. But like any material or product, homeowners should weigh the pros and cons.

What are the benefits of wood entry doors?

Beyond eye-catching beauty, wood doors present property owners with a significant range of options. The sturdy lumber use to manufacture these products includes oak, pine, mahogany, cedar, maple, bamboo, among other types.

These options make it possible for homeowners to accentuate the grain with colored stains as well as clear protective coatings. Rarely does paint factor into the experience because the appearance of natural wood remains the most attractive option.

Although wood entry doors have a reputation for being more expensive than other products, lower-cost opportunities remain on the market. Engineered wood doors and items tend to take the edge off the price tag.

Solid wood products do come with a higher price tag than others in their class. Lastly, handy DIY homeowners are more likely to possess the tools and basic carpentry skills needed to install the door themselves.

What are the drawbacks associated with wood entry doors?

It's essential to keep in mind: wooden doors do not necessarily have innate problems. Although severe weather and moisture can cause warping and fluctuations, many of the negatives are linked to comparisons.

However, wood materials generally require more maintenance and upkeep than steel, vinyl and fiberglass. Stains and protective coatings such as polyurethane require refinishing every 3-5 years, depending on sun and weather exposure.

By comparison, some wood products may not deliver the same level of energy efficiency as items such as insulated steel options. Much of the sometimes lower rating stems from air penetrations due to shrinkage during cold weather months.

People interested in a new entry door discover wood products rank among the most attractive and can add to property values. While natural and engineered wood remains popular, it's important to explore wide-reaching options before settling on your perfect front door.

About the Author
Author

Ted Stumpf

Ted draws energy and joy from building synergetic relationships with his Clients. Ted's nature is graciously gregarious and persevering; he's honest; and he's been dedicated to a substantial list of clientele throughout his 25 years in the hospitality business and almost two years as a REALTOR. His passion is creating a sincere, successful relationship with people.

Ted grew up in a family of Realtors in central Indiana, earned a degree in economics and philosophy from the University of Notre Dame, and jumped into all aspects of the restaurant business. His ensuing hospitality career path eventually led him into the Event Management Sales & Service role in hotels and quickly guided him to Los Angeles, San Francisco, and finally to a luxury resort in the Napa Valley, where he, his husband, and their dog have resided for almost a decade now.  

The irony is not lost on Ted that his ‘growth’ journey has culminated in“living happily ever after” in an agricultural area with a small-town feel and sense of community strikingly reminiscent of his youth…and as a REALTOR nonetheless!