Blogs Category: Impact Doors

The appearance of your entry door is crucial if you want to make a fantastic first impression. It’s the first thing people see when they visit your home. However, a well-chosen entry door design can also improve energy efficiency and security, offer hurricane protection, and boost long-term property value.

Below, you’ll find the most popular door styles and why choosing quality materials matters. Keep reading for the top trends that could shape how you think about your home’s main entrance. 

Popular Entry Door Styles

These front door design ideas can completely transform the appeal of your home and make your property stand out from others. Take a look at these popular options, categorized by general style: Traditional, modern, and contemporary.

Traditional Designs

A traditional entry door design focuses on classic lines, timeless shapes, and ornate details. These designs can feature raised panels, decorative glass inserts with complex patterns, or even sidelights that allow natural light to flow into the front hall. Many traditional doors are carefully crafted from high-quality wood species, such as oak or mahogany, that exude warmth.

The characteristics of a traditional entry door include:

• A sense of coziness and familiarity.
• Suitable for Victorian, colonial, or ranch-style properties.
• Often includes time-honored accents such as elaborate trim or brass handles.

Modern Designs

A modern entry door design is sleek and minimalistic. They are all about simple hardware, straight lines, and subtle textures that highlight the material itself, such as fiberglass or steel. Modern doors can also feature large glass panels or even frosted glazing to maintain high levels of privacy while allowing extra daylight to enter.

The characteristics of a modern entry door include:

• Sleek, minimalistic door panels or surfaces.
• Use of bold, solid colors (like deep blue or vibrant red).
• Fiberglass, metals, or specially treated wood for minimal maintenance of entry doors.

Contemporary Designs

Sometimes, you’ll come across the terms “contemporary design” and “modern design” used interchangeably, but they aren’t the same thing. Contemporary designs usually blend current door trends with eclectic style elements.

For example, you might see streamlined shapes with unusual textures or asymmetrical windows. A contemporary entry door design might also focus on energy-efficient materials while also adding a unique touch, such as a curved handle.

The characteristics of contemporary design doors include:

• Mixing different influences, such as artisanal details and modern lines.
• Emphasizing sustainability and energy efficient entry doors.
• Incorporating mixed materials like metal and wood.

Materials Used in Entry Doors

The entry door should look beautiful, but its appeal goes beyond aesthetics. The material you choose can affect how well your door stands up to humidity, heat, and even hurricanes. Consider these high-quality front door materials for the entry.

• Fiberglass doors: Front entries made from fiberglass are durable and require minimal upkeep. This material can mimic the grain of real wood, so it provides warmth without the hassle of regular maintenance.
• Steel doors: Many people believe that steel is the best material for entry doors. It is a durable material that adds extra security to your front entry. More modern designs often include foam cores for improved insulation.
• Wood doors: They’re classic and sturdy, especially if you choose top-notch wood. However, front entries made from wood may require regular painting or sealing.

Regardless of the material you choose, consider impact-rated models for enhanced protection. These feature reinforced cores and thicker glass to protect against debris during storms. The best entry door styles also boost sound insulation, reduce heat transfer, and increase your property’s overall safety.

Color and Finish Options

When it comes to door color ideas, you need to understand how colors and finishes can transform your entire facade. For example, a vibrant red door can be a striking focal point, while a neutrally-toned front entrance blends seamlessly into the property’s exterior. Here are some expert tips for picking a palette.

• Complement or match: Choose a hue that goes well with your house’s roof, trim, and siding. For example, navy blue stands out against crisp white walls, while a natural wood finish pairs well with brick exteriors.
• Highlight the architecture: A modern steel door might look stunning with a matte black finish. Likewise, a traditional design could benefit from a vibrant color that highlights its classic lines.
• Think about maintenance: Dark finishes on wood may fade faster under direct sunlight, so you’ll need to consider regular repainting or resealing. On the other hand, fiberglass entries with baked-on finishes often retain their vibrant colors longer.

Design Elements and Accessories

Beyond choosing the right materials and picking colors and finishes, you’ll also want to consider these “added touches” to improve the overall appearance or functionality of your front door. Check these ideas below.

• Hardware ideas: The choice of hardware can add personality to your front entry. Modern builds often showcase metal handles, while traditional homes might focus more on detailed brass hardware.
• Lighting: Front door lighting on either side of your entry can accentuate its design at night.
• Sidelights and transoms: Vertical sidelights and horizontal transom windows above the door can brighten your foyer and make the entrance feel more inviting and spacious.
• Smart home features: You can also opt for integrated video doorbells or keyless entries. Smart entry doors also add an extra layer of security against forced entries.

Choosing the Right Entry Door for Your Home

There are many front door ideas available, and choosing just one can be challenging. We’ve gathered these tips based on years of experience serving homeowners across Florida.

• The style of your home: The design of the front entry should be in harmony with the overall exterior of your property. A traditional door with ornate glass could clash with a contemporary-styled home. Similarly, a minimalist steel entrance may look out of place on a classic ranch.
• Your budget: Balance aesthetics with longevity. A more expensive, high-quality entry door can pay off over time with reduced maintenance and better energy efficiency.
• Added security features: If you are concerned about storms or break-ins, look for entries tested for durability. Entry door security features may include cylinder guards, peepholes, and alarm systems.

If you aren’t sure which entry door design or material suits your home best, contact FHIA Remodeling. Reach out today for a free consultation!

Popular Entry Door Trends in 2025

These entry door trends of 2025 will set your property apart from others. Hop on the trend with these home design ideas before they’re mainstream!

• Eco-friendly materials: Front entries made from greener materials, like FSC-certified wood, are popular because they help reduce the ecological footprint. Fiberglass, recycled steel, and recycled wood are also suitable options.
• High-tech front entries: Smart homes are the latest hit, featuring windows and front doors that can be locked, opened, and controlled via your smartphone. A single touch of a button or facial recognition is enough to access these features.
• Dark tones: Dark colors like black and anthracite will be in high demand in 2025, creating an eye-catching entrance through strong contrasts with lighter exterior tones. Often, the look is paired with textures like wood grain for a more inviting and modern appearance.
• Colors inspired by nature: Moss green, beige, and earthy notes are also popular front door trends for 2025. Neutral tones you can find in nature offer a sense of balance and elegance. Also, they’re versatile colors that pair easily with other elements, making them a safe choice that never goes out of style!
• Double doors: Many homeowners are going big with double doors and broader entrances. If space allows it, choose double doors to add a dash of grandeur to your property. Often, you’ll see this trend used in larger homes or properties with formal entryways.

Conclusion

The entry door is an expression of your personal taste, an essential factor in keeping your household members safe, and a potential shield against frequent storms. The right design can change your home’s exterior, no matter whether you choose a more traditional, modern, or contemporary design.

If you are thinking about a remodeling project and expert door installation, get in touch with a professional service. At FHIA Remodeling, we offer a wide range of solutions to meet every homeowner’s aesthetic and functional needs. Give us a call today for a free consultation, explore new entry door options, and learn more about our Lifetime Warranty!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the latest trends in entry door designs?

The latest trends for 2025 include nature-inspired colors, dark tones, and the installation of double doors, which provide a bold, welcoming entrance. Smart home features and eco-friendly materials are also trending in home design.

What is the most popular front door style?

Many homeowners in Florida choose contemporary or modern doors made from durable materials such as fiberglass. Impact-rated glass for extra protection is also popular in Florida, especially for hurricane protection.

How do I choose the right entry door for my home’s style?

Match the front entry to the overall theme of your home. For example, a minimalist steel door goes well with a modern facade. Wood doors with decorative glass fit a more traditional design.

Should the front door be lighter or darker than the house?

It depends on your preference. A darker front door creates a bold statement, while lighter shades or neutrals blend smoothly with the home’s exterior. Choose a color that complements or contrasts effectively with your siding and trim.

What is the best color for an entry door to boost curb appeal?

Bright colors like red and orange can create instant visual interest. Navy blue and classic black can also look stunning. If you prefer a softer look, consider earthy browns or neutral grays.

Florida’s hot, humid, and hurricane-prone climate can be tough on older front doors. If your entry door is outdated, it may let cooled air escape and compromise security during storms. So, what can you do? Consider front door replacement.

With over 15 years of experience and 100,000+ completed home remodeling projects, FHIA Remodeling is Florida’s leading provider of impact windows, doors, and roofing services.

In this comprehensive guide, our experts will explain how to know when it’s time to consider front door replacement. You’ll also uncover the benefits you can gain from a replacement.

Signs That Indicate It’s Time to Replace Your Front Door

Front door replacement isn’t something most people do spontaneously. Usually, there’s a good reason, like compromised security, aesthetic concerns, or functional problems. Here are the main signs that will help you identify when replacements are needed.

Difficulty in Opening and Closing the Door

Florida’s humidity and heat can cause older door materials, especially wood, to swell over time. One of the main signals that your front entry is misaligned or warped is if you need to push, tug, or pull with more force than usual.

Also, if the latch doesn’t align correctly with the strike plate, you might have a problem. This can reduce front door security by preventing the lock from fully engaging.

Visible Damage

Damage such as cracks, peeled paint, dents, and soft spots caused by rot can indicate a structural weakening in your front door. Even small cracks can let water seep in, which may lead to further damage, mold, or warping, especially in the rainy season.

Some older front doors may show rust on hardware or hinges. Rust can compromise the integrity of the hardware, making forced entry easier. If you notice visible damage, it’s time to finally replace your front door!

Drafts or Leaks Indicating Poor Insulation

Many households in Florida rely on air conditioning year-round to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures and air quality. However, poor door insulation can force your HVAC system to work overtime.

This can result in higher energy bills and a less pleasant home environment. Basic tricks, like a rolled towel, might combat small drafts near the threshold, but these are only temporary fixes. Upgrading to energy-efficient doors with more robust insulation will help keep the cool air inside and reduce monthly utility costs.

Moisture Between Glass Panes or Signs of Rot

Many front doors feature decorative glass inserts. With time, seals around these panes can degrade and allow fog or moisture to appear between the layers of glass. As condensation builds up, it can lead to mildew or mold growth, which can spread into the frame and cause further damage.

If wood is not regularly painted or sealed, it can be susceptible to decay and rot. Softened areas could point to deeper rot in the internal core, which can weaken the doors and make them less secure.

Outdated Design

Choose an aesthetic and functional front door design to boost your home’s curb appeal, especially if you live in a neighborhood with similarly valued properties. If your front entry style clashes with your home’s overall exterior, it might send the wrong message and lower the perceived value of your property.

Outdated doors might come with inefficient single-pane glass or older, less secure hardware. Level up your front entry design and enjoy better insulation and enhanced security.

Benefits of Replacing Your Front Door

Why should you replace your front door? Replacing your front door goes beyond just fixing immediate problems like peeling paint. Here are the details.

Enhanced Security

Consider a new front door with secure locks and reinforced frames. Impact-rated glass can further boost the overall safety of your home.

Modern door materials such as steel and fiberglass can stand up against forced entry, keeping your entire family safe and secure. Also, these materials can handle heavy rain, high winds, and flying debris typical of hurricane season.

Improved Energy Efficiency

High humidity levels and soaring temperatures can cause your cooling costs to spike, especially if your doors are compromised. Energy-efficient doors often feature advanced insulation, weatherstripping, and carefully engineered cores that minimize heat transfer. As you’re aware, better insulation can lead to savings on monthly utility bills.

Increased Curb Appeal

The main door of the house is typically the first thing people see when they approach your property. A front door replacement can refresh your entire facade and give your property a more polished and inviting look. Bold colors or sleek finishes can make your home stand out. Alternatively, a timeless design can blend elegantly with existing architecture.

Higher Property Value

Boost the market value of your home by investing in a new front door. Buyers are aware of the importance of insulation, general upkeep, and hurricane readiness. For professional results that last, contact trained professionals instead of engaging in a DIY job.

Reduced Maintenance

If you have an old entry, maintenance can become an ongoing and tedious chore. A wooden main door needs routine painting and sealing to stay water-resistant, and outdated hardware might need frequent repairs. Install a new front door constructed with low-maintenance and modern materials to cut back on future upkeep.

For example, fiberglass resists rot, rust, and warping. Steel is also a smart investment for a new front door as they generally only need occasional painting or wiping.\

Choosing the Right Front Door for Your Home

Choosing a new front door isn’t easy, as you need to think about your taste, budget, and what your home needs. We are here to explain the entire process.

Material Options

Think about fiberglass, steel, and quality wood when choosing your new front door. These materials can make a big difference in security, insulation, and aesthetics.

• Fiberglass: Fiberglass offers the warmth and luxurious look of wood doors without the vulnerability to rot. Energy-efficient doors from fiberglass often come with heavy-duty cores for improved insulation.
• Steel: Steel excels at front door security and is generally budget-friendly. This type of doors has a tough exterior that is dent and crack-resistant. If you choose steel, be prepared for occasional repainting, especially if you live in a high-salt area close to the coast.
• Wood: Wood front doors are classic and elegant. However, they require regular staining, sealing, or painting. The beauty of a well-crafted wooden door is often worth it!

Design Considerations

A new front door should complement the exterior style of your property. If you have a modern minimalist home, you might want to choose simple paneling and sleek hardware. Hardware finishes like bronze, matte, and brushed nickel create different visual effects.

For a traditional home, a paneled design or decorative glass insert can enhance curb appeal. In Florida, impact-rated glass is essential for safety and hurricane protection.

Customization Options

Unique glass designs, transom windows above the main entry, or sidelights along each side might be options for door customization. Homeowners can personalize elements like custom knockers, decorative grilles, or smart locks that pair with home automation systems.

Save time and get an expert opinion — reach out today. We are a locally owned and operated company with a Lifetime Warranty on all of our products. Let us help you with every aspect of front door replacement in Florida!

When to Consider Professional Installation vs. DIY

Front door replacement can be a challenging project, and it demands careful measurement, structural knowledge, and the right set of tools. While some experienced DIYers may feel confident, it is always best to seek professional help.

Basic Tips for Those Considering a DIY Installation

If you are thinking about tackling the job yourself, you’ll need to make sure that all measurements are precise. A new front door that’s even slightly off can lead to misalignment or gaps. Measure the width, height, and depth of the frame accurately.

Ensure safety if you want to replace the front door alone. Replacing a front entry often involves removing heavy and unwieldy existing framing.

Always wear protective gear and have a second person help you with positioning and lifting. While a standard tool kit may be enough for minor tasks, you will typically need more professional equipment for serious front door installation.

Advantages of Professional Installation

If you want guaranteed results, contact experts for professional installation. Working with experts comes with many benefits—they can guide you on the best door materials and design features based on your budget and home needs.

You’ll also have the opportunity to discuss customization with experts who understand the technical aspects of front door installation. Professional services often include labor and product warranties for added peace of mind.

FHIA Remodeling offers a Lifetime Warranty, so you’re always covered. The front door installation will be completed fast, so you can spend more time with your friends and family and allow professionals to take over.

Our bilingual team is available in English or Spanish to provide all the details you need. Reach out for professional door installation and a free consultation!

Conclusion

Replace your front door and transform the appearance of your property. Feel more comfortable and know that your entire household can sleep safe and sound in a secure home.

Opt for front door replacement to address multiple issues at once, like signs of structural damage, and switch to a durable and energy-efficient entry. You’ll notice a dip in energy bills, boosted curb appeal, and enhanced security during severe weather.

If you want to replace the front door and would rather entrust the project to specialists, FHIA Remodeling is ready to help. Contact our experts to get the job done right as soon as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my front door needs to be replaced?

Tell-tale signs that you need expert front door replacement include warping, sticking, and drafts. Visible cracks and fogging between glass inserts are also frequent. If your front entry looks outdated or ragged, it could be time for a professional replacement!

What are the benefits of replacing an old front door?

A replacement front door provides enhanced security for all your household members and better energy efficiency, thanks to insulation. Plus, a well-sealed front entry reduces noise and creates a quieter indoor environment.

What factors should I consider when choosing a new front door?

Focus on durability, security, design, and energy efficiency. Choose durable door materials like steel, fiberglass, and adequately treated wood. You’ll also want to think about maintenance and your budget limits.

What’s the best type of front door for security?

High-quality steel and fiberglass offer the highest level of front door security, especially when combined with reinforced door frame. An impact-rated model can help protect your home during various weather conditions.

Can replacing my front door increase the value of my home?

Yes, a front door installation featuring modern materials and security features can be more appealing. Incorporate the latest trends in home design to make your home even more attractive to potential buyers.

How long does a new front door typically last?

If the entry is installed correctly by an expert service, it can last for decades. However, factors like routine door maintenance and material choice can affect your front entry’s longevity.