From how they look to how well they hold up to weather, there’s a lot of variation between door materials and designs. To understand how important these differences can really be, take a look at how the typical wooden door compares to one made from iron.
Home Security
With a decent lock system, the material of the door itself makes little difference. However, certain door materials can be more easily damaged during forced entry. A solid wood door is more difficult to break into than a hollow one, but it can still be broken with sufficient force. Wrought iron security doors, on the other hand, are more difficult for the average person to break or push open, even with significant impact.
Durability and Integrity
When treated, sealed, and painted properly, a wood door can take a pretty good beating before it starts to look truly worn. A wooden front door that is exposed to the elements can also last a long time if it’s properly cared for, but it can eventually start to fade, warp, or crack. Wrought iron doors aren’t susceptible to the same kinds of issues, though they might develop rust as protective coatings wear off.
Style and Curb Appeal
Wood and iron lend themselves to different kinds of artistry. Wooden doors can be intricately carved, but the majority of styles involve angular shapes, panels, and windows. Iron doors can also have simple, angular styles, but the material is great for things like complex scrollwork, curved shapes, and other fun flourishes. If you want something a little “fancy,” a wrought iron door might be right up your alley.
Energy Efficiency
Wood and iron insulate differently, which could mean differences in your heating and cooling bills. Wood is generally a better insulator than metal, so a solid wood door won’t let as much heat energy out (or in) as an all-metal door. Most of the time, however, metal doors include a material that improves insulation. At Universal Iron Doors, we inject our doors with foam.
Regardless of which type of door you choose, the most important thing is to make sure it is properly fitted and there are no gaps.
The Impact on Your Wallet
The cost of a door varies based on factors like the manufacturer, the details of the design, and the labor involved. In general, however, budget options tend to be made of wood. A custom wrought iron door with a lot of embellishments will cost more than a basic one. In the end, you’ll need to weigh the door’s pros and cons and decide whether the cost is worth it to you.
Renew Your Home with Beautiful Wrought Iron Doors
At Universal Iron Doors, we go above and beyond to create high-quality designs that are both functional and artistic. If you don’t find what you’re looking for in our live inventory of interior and exterior products, we can work with you to develop the perfect custom iron door design.
To find out how we can help you update your home, call us today at (818) 771-1003.
