Wooden Front Doors and Why You Should Have One: What You Need to Know

Published: October 30, 2020

By the Estate Millwork Design Team | Craftsmen since 1997

So you've finally decided to replace your old outdated front door that you've never liked and clashes with your overall décor choices. When looking at options you will likely be looking for something that is eye catching and enhances the curb appeal of your home, wooden front doors check both of these off.

When comparing front doors you'll come across cheaper options such as fiberglass and steel, while these materials can require less maintenance they can dent, are susceptible to rust and can't be easily repaired. Wooden doors however are great at resisting wear, can be fully customized to your needs.

What Wood Is Best for Wooden Front Doors?

When looking for a solid wooden front door, you'll want to select a wood species that will be able to withstand the elements; wood species such as Mahogany, Oak, Knotty Alder and Cedar are all great options when it comes to exterior doors. These species are naturally better at withstanding the elements than some lesser woods like pine. These woods also finish very nicely giving you the often sought after pop on the front of your home.

Why Wooden Front Doors Are Energy Efficient and Secure

With proper installation wooden doors are great insulators of both sound and other exterior elements. Unlike metal which transfers temperature swings wood exhibits low thermal conductivity giving it a high heat-insulating capacity, allowing it to keep the outside weather out and your home comfortable.

Required Maintenance

Depending on exposure to the elements and finish, you may need to repaint or apply varnish every so many years to help prolong the life and beauty of your door. These same issues can arise in metal doors where constant sun rays will fade the paint and if the door is constantly exposed to water it can start to rust.

Wooden Front Doors as a Selling Feature

Solid wood doors are widely considered a great selling feature in the current housing market by real estate agents. For even more curb appeal, see how you can make a grand entrance with double front doors. With the average home price being around half a million dollars you want to preserve that investment with a custom made wooden front door to increase the value of your home. After all, premium wooden front doors are something you only purchase one time, and they last for decades.

Wooden Front Doors vs. Steel and Fiberglass

The three most common exterior door materials are wood, steel, and fiberglass. Each has strengths, but wooden front doors stand apart in several key areas. Steel doors dent on impact and cannot be repaired without replacing the entire panel; a wooden front door can be sanded and refinished. Fiberglass doors can crack in extreme cold and their faux wood grain never quite matches the real thing. Wooden front doors, meanwhile, offer genuine grain patterns, superior insulation (wood has an R-value roughly four times higher than steel per inch), and can be customized to any size or design.

For more on choosing the right exterior wood, read our guide on choosing the best wood for your exterior front door. If you are considering a farmhouse style front door, wooden doors are the most authentic choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Wooden Front Doors

How long do wooden front doors last?

With proper maintenance, wooden front doors can last 30 years or more. Refinishing every 3 to 5 years (or sooner in harsh climates) keeps the wood protected from moisture and UV damage. Solid hardwood species like Mahogany and White Oak are especially long-lasting for wooden front doors.

Are wooden front doors energy efficient?

Yes. Wood is a natural insulator with an R-value roughly four times higher than steel per inch of thickness. Wooden front doors help keep heated and cooled air inside your home, reducing energy costs. Proper weatherstripping around the door frame further improves the energy efficiency of wooden front doors.

How much do custom wooden front doors cost?

Custom wooden front doors from Estate Millwork start around $500 and vary based on wood species, size, and design. Use our online designer to configure your wooden front door with your exact specifications and get an instant price quote.

Can wooden front doors be painted or stained?

Yes. Wooden front doors accept both paint and stain beautifully. Poplar is the preferred species for painted wooden front doors due to its smooth, even grain. For stained finishes, Mahogany, Cherry, Walnut, and Red Oak showcase rich natural grain patterns that make wooden front doors a stunning focal point.