1. Introduction
Why is it important to adhere to a particular type of home design? Shouldn’t a well-built custom home be able to stand the test of time regardless of style? While this may be true to an extent, if one puts two houses of different styles and identical quality against each other, the one with the superior curb appeal is almost always going to win out in the housing market. Transmitting the craftsman aesthetic to the exterior of one’s home can be accomplished in many ways without sacrificing design quality or breaking the bank. One of the most important aspects of home exterior and one which is often overlooked is the creation of a proper entryway. The front door should be thought of as the focal point of the exterior and purchasing a style door which reflects craftsman aesthetics can make a huge impact on the overall feel of the home. Another important aspect is the use of natural materials. Craftsman aesthetics have always been about sustainability and there is no better way to showcase this than by using materials which last and are environmentally friendly. Rock or brickwork is a good way to add character to the home and creating sustained wood features such as a porch or overhang can greatly add depth and warmth. Again, it is important to remember the green practice in all of these endeavors. The mission to sustainable materials and design should not be overlooked with the goals of saving time and money.
This movement coincided with the early days of mass media, photography, recorded music, and modern transportation. There was a sense that culture was regressing. This is why the most popularized era of American craftsman aesthetics is the beginning of the 20th century. Architecture played a large role in craftsman aesthetics and it is often associated with the bungalow-style house. These were individualistic style houses with large porches and open floor plans which were intended to feel much different than the cramped, dark row houses which were the standard for most workers. The inside of these homes were adorned with mission furniture, another product of the arts and crafts movement. This era was thought to be a simpler time before high-rise buildings and it was well reflected in the prevalent architecture. An important thing to note is that many of the practices in home building and design came from the green movement in response to the environmental effects of the industrial revolution and we are seeing a resurgence in similar practices today. This is also why in modern times craftsman aesthetics is often seen as the ‘green’ choice in home design.
First and foremost, it is well worth defining what exactly is meant by ‘craftsman aesthetics’. This term refers to a particular kind of architecture, interior design, and decorative arts which are found in buildings, commercial design, and the decorative arts. The aesthetic is classically American and has an early 20th-century time period feel. This aesthetic was a product of the British Arts and Crafts movement which was the reaction of the industrial revolution to the increasing lack of quality in the goods it produced and its negative effects on workers’ conditions. This movement was started mainly by people wishing to go back to the old days before medieval times. What came out of it in America was products for the home which were simple, well-built, and handcrafted, with an emphasis on the home being a warm and inviting place.
1.1. Definition of Craftsman Aesthetics
Craftsman architecture is best characterized by its interior woodwork, which is often oak (though cherry and other woods were also used), and its earth tones and muted colors. The hallmark of a craftsman home, however, is its interaction with the surrounding environment. In essence, a craftsman style home attempts to “bring the outside in” through its use of wide porches, patios, plentiful windows and glassed doors. This, in turn, makes the home’s exterior a rather important element. As a craftsman homeowner, refurbishing or replacing a front door or closet doors is an excellent opportunity to accent your home with a taste of your own personal style.
Craftsman architecture is one of the most important design styles that arose during the American Arts and Crafts Movement. The movement, which itself originated in the late 19th century in England, is often referred to as the “mission” style in the United States, and continued well into the 1930s. Craftsman architecture was a reaction to both the mass-production of the Industrial Revolution and the ornate aesthetic style of the Victorian period. It is focused on clean, simple design, superior quality materials and construction, and a sincere respect for the natural beauty of the home’s surroundings.
1.2. Importance of Exterior Design
Craftsman style dominated residential architectural design and construction in the US from 1905-1930. The design was most common on the west coast, where the housing stock has proven to be the most durable, and this style of design is most recognized by consumers. The Craftsman style emerged from the British Arts & Crafts movement which was launched by John Ruskin and William Morris, two of the most influential writers and designers of the late 19th century. The basic tenets of the Arts & Crafts movement are reflected in the work of Gustav Stickley, who said “the mission of the craftsman is to take the personal quality into his work, and to do it right”. High quality work and use of natural materials are two key principles to the Arts & Crafts movement which greatly influence the primary identifying features of Craftsman style homes. The design is based on a return to hand craftsmanship, while moving away from the mass produced ornamentation of other Victorian homes. The exterior has square, tapered columns on stone pedestals, which extend to the ground level or sit on stone bases, commonly without extra ornamentation on the column. Usually there is either a partial or full width porch with an overhanging, low-pitched roof, sometimes with a second story built into the roof. The second story often has sloped ceilings with less space, windows are multi-paned, double-hung, and often in groups of two, four, or six. The overall effect is one of a well-built, durable, and sturdy home. Craftsman style homes are still very common on the west coast, and the large amount of original houses provide a strong market for doors and windows compatible with the style.
2. Choosing the Right Style Door
Craftsman style exterior doors will often times be a higher end, heavy-duty wooden door suited to the earthy and natural tones of craftsman architecture. This can mean a fiberglass door designed to mimic wood grain or an actual wood door. The latter choice being best for those in favor of authenticity, as wood doors will without a doubt outlast any other door material. Since craftsman architecture is about the details, stick to a door that has raised panels or vertical planks and avoid flush doors at all costs. These details are most often found on wooden doors and can be easily matched to the exterior of your home by simply re-staining the door to a color that complements your current housing scheme.
Craftsman style is a sub-category of American residential architecture that was established throughout the early 20th century. It has a large following in the United States and has rooted itself significantly in the housing market. As such, the creation of craftsman-like or arts and crafts style doors has emerged in the industry, giving homeowners dedicated to this aesthetic more options in choosing the right style door.
2.1. Understanding Craftsman Style Doors
One of the most distinctive and popular door styles in home design today, one can surely say the craftsman style door is utilizing heirloom quality and old world craftsmanship with the best of modern finishing touches. Craftsmanship and simplicity are the hallmarks of craftsman style doors. The versatile design is an elegant addition to contemporary, traditional, bungalow, and many other styles of homes. The doors clean lines and shaker styling produce a stylish look while the true mortise and tenon construction is a guarantee of lasting quality. Craftsman doors are also the friend of the environment, utilizing engineered stile and rail construction to prevent the warping and splitting that often occurs in solid wood door construction. This optimizes their green nature to the modern day, environmentally conscious consumer. Built to last a lifetime, a craftsman style door will remain period correct far into the future. Craftsmen style doors, with their simple elegance and style are a must when considering a high quality, yet reasonably priced home update.
2.2. Factors to Consider when Selecting a Style Door
Durability is another concern for everyone. You want to install an entry door that will hold up to the elements and the rigors of everyday use. Cost and durability usually go hand in hand. People can generally afford to invest more in an entry door than any other type of door, and a high-quality wood or fiberglass door will provide the best durability. Glass is another important thing to think about when considering durability. Glass will be covered in more detail in the next section.
Another major factor for choosing doors is the level of maintenance required. Metal and fiberglass doors are generally lower maintenance than wood doors. In general, wood doors require an immediate coat of finish to protect them from the elements. Failure to finish a wood door can lead to warping, cracking, and increased likelihood of the door failing to perform its duties as it ages. High-quality woods such as mahogany and vertical grain Douglas fir will hold up better than pine and are a better choice if you wish to avoid the maintenance.
When deciding on which style door would best suit your home, you should think about a number of things. The first thing that you’ll want to think about is what types of entry doors would flow with the overall exterior/interior look and feel of your home. You’ll want to make sure that your entry door would be a good fit in terms of materials, durability, maintenance, and of course aesthetics.
2.2.1. Material Options
One of the key considerations when choosing style doors for your exterior is the material options. Different materials offer distinct advantages and aesthetics that can greatly enhance the overall appeal of your home’s entrance. From traditional wood to modern fiberglass, the range of material options allows homeowners to choose the perfect style door that complements their architectural vision. Wooden doors provide a classic and timeless look, while fiberglass doors offer durability and low maintenance requirements. Steel doors, on the other hand, provide enhanced security and energy efficiency, making them a popular choice for homeowners concerned with safety and sustainability. In addition, steel doors are resistant to extreme weather conditions and provide excellent insulation for your home.
Furthermore, steel doors are available in a variety of finishes and designs, allowing homeowners to customize their exterior with style and elegance. In addition, another popular material option for style doors is fiberglass, which offers its own set of advantages and design possibilities. Fiberglass doors are known for their durability and resistance to extreme weather conditions, making them a practical choice for homeowners seeking long-lasting and low-maintenance options for their exterior doors. Moreover, fiberglass doors are also available in a wide range of colors and textures, providing homeowners with even more opportunities to enhance the aesthetic appeal of their exteriors. They can be designed to mimic the look and feel of real wood, allowing homeowners to achieve the desired craftsman aesthetic without sacrificing durability or maintenance requirements. Additionally, fiberglass doors are also energy-efficient, providing homeowners with the added benefit of reducing heating and cooling costs.
2.2.2. Design Elements
In addition to the choice of materials, design elements also play a crucial role in creating craftsman aesthetics for stylish doors. Design elements can include the use of geometric patterns, intricate detailing, and authentic hardware, all of which contribute to the overall charm and sophistication of the craftsman-style doors. These design elements are often inspired by the Arts and Crafts movement of the early 20th century, which emphasized simplicity, functionality, and the use of natural materials. Craftsman-style doors often feature clean lines, symmetrical arrangements, and handcrafted touches, all of which reflect the principles of the Arts and Crafts movement. The use of high-quality materials such as solid wood and stained glass further enhances the authenticity and beauty of these doors.
Craftsman-style doors are known for their durability and timelessness, as the combination of solid wood and stained glass not only adds to their visual appeal but also ensures their longevity. Furthermore, design elements such as intricate paneling and decorative hardware contribute to the overall charm and authenticity of craftsman-style doors. These design elements create a visually appealing and inviting entrance to any home. Craftsman-style doors are renowned for their attention to detail and craftsmanship, making them a focal point that enhances the overall architectural style of a house. The incorporation of design elements like unique glass patterns and hand-carved motifs further accentuate their timeless elegance and add a touch of personalized charm. Craftsman-style doors are a testament to the dedication and skill of craftsmen, resulting in a truly bespoke and exquisite entrance that captures the essence of the homeowner’s individuality and refined taste.
By combining design elements such as stately sidelights and rich wood finishes, craftsman-style doors add a touch of grandeur and sophistication to any home’s exterior. These design elements work together to create a timeless and elegant look that enhances the overall aesthetic appeal of the property. The intricate details and clean lines of craftsman-style doors add a touch of sophistication and charm to any home. Craftsman-style doors are known for their attention to detail and emphasis on craftsmanship, making them a popular choice for homeowners seeking to elevate the exterior of their homes with style and elegance.
2.2.3. Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency is a crucial factor to consider when selecting style doors for your exterior. Poor energy efficiency can result in higher heating and cooling costs, as well as a negative impact on the environment. To address these concerns, style doors with advanced insulation materials and weatherstripping can significantly improve energy efficiency in homes and reduce both expenses and carbon footprint. By minimizing air leakage and heat transfer, these energy-efficient doors help to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature throughout the year. Additionally, the use of double or triple pane glass in style doors further enhances their insulation properties, contributing to even greater energy savings. With their ability to reduce heat loss and gain, these doors play a vital role in achieving a more sustainable and eco-friendly living environment. Furthermore, style doors with energy-efficient features such as low-emissivity coatings and insulated frames can also help to minimize the transfer of solar heat, resulting in a more balanced and energy-efficient home. As a result, homeowners can enjoy reduced reliance on heating and cooling systems, leading to significant energy savings and a smaller carbon footprint.
3. Enhancing Curb Appeal with Craftsman Style Doors
Invisible topic. As many people instinctively understand, it is a discernible quality present in only a few homes – that elusive, yet unmistakable, curb appeal. A porch defined by tapered, battered columns and liberal use of river rock, or a bungalow with a low-pitched roof and exposed rafter tails, appeals to the senses of an era of “simplicity” that fulfills the image of earlier times. But if none of the above residences have been made particularly if they are older and are seeking restoration. Typically, one broken Cosmas-style door must be replaced with the tedious replication of existing doors without compromising the integrity of historical architecture. What options are there in today’s mass replication doors that still maintain decorative hardware but also function well and are secure? It begins with understanding good Cosmas design for your home and choosing a door befitting the style, both of which can contribute much to the appeal. Invisible topic. Craftsman-style doors of good design should have well-defined proportions and grouping, with divided lite panels. A good example is the door shown, with six lites over a panel. Notice that the lower third of the door is subdivided into three equal sections formed by horizontal members. This is a consistent theme in Cosmas-era furniture and thus very appropriate for a Cosmas home. Glass panels can be any number and should be large enough to lighten the entry, but not so large as to lose security and insulation. If your home is truly representative of Cosmas architecture, it is likely that your front door has grown from newer designs that are incongruent with Cosmas style. You would do well to replace it with a replica door of Cosmas design to restore architectural integrity. Newer homes seeking Cosmas appeal can adopt Cosmas-style doors into their architecture more easily through the use of basic designs discussed and applicative usage.
3.1. Incorporating Traditional Craftsman Elements
A sure way of enhancing the curb appeal of a home’s exterior is by incorporating the traditional elements of the American Craftsman Style, which include Arts and Crafts and Mission. This style of architecture, with its emphasis on the use of natural materials and handcrafted elements, is easily enhanced with the addition of a Craftsman-style door. Using the simple, elegant, and clean lines of a Shaker door or a Mission-style door and warm, rich, earthy tones found in the stains from brands like Minwax or Sherwin-Williams, homeowners can instantly and cost-effectively add an authentic Craftsman aesthetic to their home. Although solid wood doors are long-lasting and a testament to fine craftsmanship, a quality fiberglass door is an excellent substitution and can effectively mimic the texture, grain, and warmth of real wood at a fraction of the cost. Fiberglass doors are also low maintenance, and higher energy efficiency may save the consumer money in the long run. Another popular element of Craftsman-style doors is the use of divided lite. This refers to the way in which glass panels are structured, using muntins to separate the panes. There are many styles of divided lite doors, but one in particular that fits well with the Craftsman style is the 3-lite door, which consists of one large panel of glass spaced into three sections with muntins holding the glass in place. While the look of divided lite is generally American Craftsman, Mission-style doors usually consist of one small lite centered near the top of the door. Traditional Craftsman-style doors use clear glass or glazing to help bring natural light into an entryway; however, homeowners seeking extra privacy have the option of using textured or frosted glass to achieve the same aesthetic effect.
3.1.1. Use of Natural Wood
Using natural wood is a timeless and elegant choice for enhancing the aesthetics of your exterior, creating a warm and inviting ambiance. It adds a touch of rustic charm and character to any home, while also providing durability and longevity. Natural wood doors are not only visually appealing, but they also offer exceptional insulation and are resistant to harsh weather conditions. This makes them a practical and sustainable choice for homeowners looking to improve energy efficiency and maintain the beauty of their exterior.
In addition, natural wood doors are known for their ability to withstand the test of time, ensuring that your home’s style and functionality will remain intact for years to come. Moreover, the use of natural wood adds a warm and inviting touch to your exterior, creating a welcoming atmosphere for both residents and visitors alike. Natural wood is not only aesthetically pleasing, but it also provides durability and longevity to your style doors. Furthermore, the distinct grain and texture of natural wood give your style doors a unique and timeless look that cannot be replicated with synthetic materials. The natural variations in color and pattern of the wood can enhance the overall appeal of your exterior, making a bold statement and adding character to your home.
Additionally, the earthy tones and organic beauty of natural wood doors can seamlessly blend with various architectural styles, further enhancing the visual appeal of your home. In addition, the use of natural wood doors adds a touch of warmth and sophistication to your exterior, creating a welcoming and elegant entrance. Wooden doors are not only visually appealing but also provide durability and longevity to withstand various weather conditions. Moreover, the natural grain and texture of wooden doors can add a sense of charm and character to your home, making it stand out from the rest of the neighborhood. With proper maintenance, natural wood doors can retain their beauty and uniqueness for years to come.
3.1.2. Emphasizing Simplicity and Symmetry
Craftsman aesthetics emphasize simplicity and symmetry in order to create a harmonious and visually appealing exterior. This is achieved through the use of clean lines, balanced proportions, and minimal ornamentation. The emphasis on simplicity and symmetry in craftsman aesthetics creates a harmonious and cohesive exterior design that enhances the overall appeal of the style doors. Craftsman aesthetics prioritize clean lines and balanced proportions, while also minimizing excessive ornamentation, resulting in a visually pleasing and unified look for style doors.
The clean lines, balanced proportions, and minimal ornamentation of craftsman aesthetics work together to create a sense of order and tranquility, making style doors an inviting and stylish addition to any home. They embody a timeless elegance that can enhance the exterior of your home while seamlessly blending in with its surrounding environment. These style doors are designed to prioritize clean lines and balanced proportions, creating a harmonious and sophisticated look for your property. Their minimal ornamentation allows for a focus on simplicity and symmetry, resulting in a visually pleasing and aesthetically appealing entrance. The deliberate absence of excessive details and intricate designs allows for a more streamlined and cohesive appearance, emphasizing the importance of clean and organized aesthetics.
3.1.3. Adding Decorative Accents
One way to enhance the visual appeal of your exterior is by incorporating decorative accents onto your style doors. These decorative accents can range from intricate carvings and moldings to ornate handles and hinges. In addition, decorative accents can also include elegant glass panels and unique trim designs. These added features not only add a touch of sophistication, but they also allow natural light to flow into your home. Furthermore, the elegant glass panels and unique trim designs create a visually stunning focal point for your exterior, enhancing the overall curb appeal of your home. Not only do these decorative accents elevate the aesthetic value of your style doors, but they also contribute to the overall architectural charm of your property.
Additionally, the intricate carvings and moldings, ornate handles and hinges, elegant glass panels, and unique trim designs all work together to create a cohesive and harmonious exterior that showcases your attention to detail and craftsmanship. The decorative accents not only enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of the style doors but also serve as an expression of your personal taste and individuality. These accents can range from intricate carvings and moldings to ornate metal hardware and stained glass inserts. The wide range of decorative accents allows homeowners to customize their style doors and create a unique and personalized look for their home exteriors. Some popular choices include decorative window grids, door knockers, and address plaques.
4. Customization Options for Style Doors
Personalizing your craftsman style door can be a fun and fulfilling process. The choices you make truly do give your home a unique look and feel. Start with door color—a very broad custom option. Choose a color that stands out from your home’s exterior finish. Accent colors can be used to add definition to the door, defining intricate details and making pane configuration more apparent. Rubbed or glazed finishes are another option. These can be added to create an antique look, or highlight contours with the look of hand craftsmanship.
Customization options for style doors are virtually endless. It all begins with the decision whether to purchase a premade door or custom order one. For those purchasing a premade door, there are still ample options for personalization. Choose from a variety of glass styles, and then decide whether to use a single pane or configure multiple panes to create a more authentic look. Some companies offer premade doors with custom options, such as choosing between different wood species, a choice between plank, shaker or traditional stile and rail construction, and sometimes custom sizing options. For those ordering a custom door, the options are limited only by the budget.
4.1. Personalizing Your Craftsman Style Door
The first step to putting your personal stamp on your Craftsman wooden style door is color. You have the simple option of matching it with the rest of your woodwork, or you can spice it up a little. You might consider a paint or stain that imitates the wood grain in your door for a subtle, yet individual statement. For a bolder look, it’s a simple task to paint your door a completely different color. Deep earthy greens, reds, browns, or other muted colors are good choices for this type of door. Lighter colors will also work, with sage green and light yellow being popular choices for different styles of Craftsman homes. White can also look very sharp on a Craftsman style door. If you are painting your door, you must consider repainting every few years, as natural wear and tear can have an adverse effect on the visual appeal of your door.
Customization is an important part of utilizing Craftsman style doors. Since the Craftsman style is about warmth, craftsmanship, and simplicity, functional design is a key principle of this style. This means that even though the doors themselves are beautiful, your home will benefit from a personal touch. Craftsman style is also predominantly a wood-based style, and when it comes to wood, customizing is endless.
4.1.1. Custom Color Choices
Custom color choices play a crucial role in enhancing the overall appeal and charm of style doors, adding a personalized touch to the exterior of your home. They allow homeowners to express their unique sense of style and make a statement with their front entryway. Homeowners can choose from a wide range of custom color options to perfectly complement their home’s exterior. Whether you prefer bold, vibrant hues or subtle, understated tones, there is a custom color choice that will suit your individual taste and preferences. These custom color choices can add a touch of personality and character to your home’s exterior.
From vibrant reds and blues to earthy greens and neutrals, the possibilities for creating a truly one-of-a-kind front entryway are endless. With such a wide range of custom color choices, homeowners can easily find the perfect hue to complement their exterior aesthetic. From bold and vibrant tones to subtle and earthy shades, there is a color option to suit every individual’s unique style and preference. Whether you prefer a statement-making entrance or a more understated look, the custom color choices available for style doors allow homeowners to achieve their desired aesthetic. Create a cohesive and harmonious exterior design that reflects their personal taste and enhances the overall curb appeal of their home.
4.1.2. Hardware Selections
In order to complete the overall look and enhance the appeal of your style doors, careful consideration must be given to the hardware selections. Here are some key factors to consider when choosing hardware for your craftsman-style doors. Finding the right hardware can truly enhance the overall appeal and authenticity of your craftsman-style doors. By selecting hardware that complements the design and style of your doors, you can create a cohesive and visually pleasing aesthetic. Not only does the hardware serve a functional purpose, but it also adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to your exterior space.
The hardware selections should not only be durable and practical but should also reflect the craftsmanship and attention to detail that is characteristic of craftsman aesthetics. The hardware chosen for craftsman style doors should be made of high-quality materials and feature intricate designs that complement the overall aesthetic. These hardware selections play a crucial role in enhancing the overall visual appeal of the doors and adding a touch of sophistication to your exterior. They should include elements such as decorative hinges, hand-forged door knockers, and ornate locksets to truly capture the essence of craftsman aesthetics.
Each piece of hardware should be carefully selected to ensure that it not only enhances the visual appeal of the doors but also withstands the test of time. The hardware selections play a crucial role in both the functionality and overall design of the Craftsman-style doors. They not only provide security and ease of use, but also add a touch of sophistication to the exterior of your home. The right hardware selections can elevate the craftsmanship and aesthetic of the doors, making them the perfect addition to any home. From classic knobs and handles to decorative hinges and door knockers, there is a wide range of hardware options available to suit your personal style and enhance the overall appeal of your home’s exterior. Whether you prefer a more traditional or modern look, there is a hardware selection that will complement and enhance the overall design of your Craftsman-style doors.
4.1.3. Glass Inserts and Panel Designs
In addition to the wide range of materials and finishes available for style doors, the incorporation of glass inserts and panel designs adds another layer of sophistication and elegance to your exterior. These elements not only enhance the visual appeal of your home but also allow for an abundance of natural light to enter your living spaces. Furthermore, glass inserts and panel designs provide an opportunity to showcase your personal style and add a touch of elegance to your home’s exterior. By choosing from a variety of intricate patterns and designs, you can create a truly unique and eye-catching entrance that reflects your individuality and enhances your home’s overall curb appeal. In addition, glass inserts and panel designs offer the flexibility to customize the level of privacy and security you desire for your home. You can opt for frosted or textured glass that obscures the view while still allowing light to filter through, or choose clear glass with decorative accents to create a more open and inviting entrance. Moreover, glass inserts and panel designs can be combined with other materials such as wood or metal to achieve a stunning and harmonious aesthetic appearance for your home’s exterior. The combination of different materials not only adds visual interest but also creates a dynamic and modern look that will make a lasting impression on anyone who sees your home. Additionally, the use of glass inserts and panel designs allows for the incorporation of unique architectural elements, such as stained glass or geometric patterns, that can further elevate the style and sophistication of your exterior doors. These artistic details can transform a simple entryway into a work of art, adding character and charm to your home’s overall design. Not only do glass inserts and panel designs provide aesthetic beauty, but they also serve as functional elements by allowing you to showcase your personal style and preferences in a practical and visually appealing way. By selecting different glass textures and panel designs, you can create a balance between privacy and openness, ensuring that your exterior doors not only look beautiful but also meet your specific needs and preferences.
5. Installation and Maintenance of Craftsman Style Doors
Professional installers should evaluate how doors affect the sun within a home. If the existing door is a standard type, anything other than a fiberglass door will be a step up. The durability of fiberglass makes it the logical choice for a door coming into a home from an attached garage. Fiberglass doors come in all the same options as steel doors, but there are far fewer sizes and the chances of having to order one to fit is great. High-end homes may make the investment in wood doors, which offer warmth and beauty, though they require constant maintenance to keep them looking nice. In terms of energy savings, installation of any quality door makes little difference. The primary consideration when installing an exterior door should be how well it keeps out the weather. Too often this important aspect is overlooked. An experienced carpenter should be able to install a door correctly in half a day, with no issues. A professional installer may cost as much as the door itself and is probably not worth the additional expense. An amateur job will be easy to spot. It will lead to air infiltration, which can be 5% or more of a home’s heating costs! This can also be much more costly if the door does not keep the weather out. Unfortunately, too few homeowners know how to assess the competency of an installer. A license is always a good indicator. A three-quote process is the best way to find a competent installer. A quote should be based on a set of plans and guidelines. If the same guidelines are used to ask each contractor, it will be easier to compare quotes. Any discrepancies should be cleared up before you choose an installer. This can save many headaches down the road. High-quality installers may have high-quality questions. For example, if there is a stone entry, an outswing door may not be the best choice. A good tradesman may talk you out of a bad choice. He is probably right. An entry door is not a cheap investment, and there is no reason to cut corners. Always be prepared to undertake the right decision on this topic. High performance often hinges on the trivial elements. Ask any top athlete or musician. There are many resources out there on the installation of doors. It is a trade and like most trades, it takes many years to learn. Expect that this information will fly under the consumer radar. This is a job that is best learned through practice. Unfortunately, the understanding of weatherization still eludes many builders. A visit to a local building envelope consulting firm can be an eye-opening experience. Although costly, these door installation facts are more than opinion, they are science.
5.1. Hiring a Professional Installer
There are a few essential things to take into consideration when hiring a professional to install your craftsman style doors. While you may feel capable of doing the work yourself, it is always best to have a professional do the job. They have the experience and knowledge to know how to properly handle and install the doors. They can also suggest things that you may not know about. For example, you may have purchased a door that you think will fit and work great, but a professional may be able to point out why that door will not work so great and suggest a different door that will look better and be more functional for you. Installing craftsman style doors can be quite complex depending on the type of door and your home. A professional will know how to properly cut and fit the door if it is a little too big for the doorway. This is a fairly common occurrence in older homes that have settled. Professionals will also know how to properly seal or weatherproof the door to protect it from the elements and make it last for a long time. This is probably the most crucial part of the installation process, and doing it improperly can be a costly mistake. Even though it will cost you some money to hire a professional, it is a worthy investment, especially if the cost of the doors was substantial. With a professional installer, you are far less likely to incur additional costs of repairing any damage that could be done by improperly installing the doors on your own, and you will have peace of mind in knowing that the doors are installed to their full potential.
5.2. Proper Care and Maintenance Tips
Proper care and maintenance is crucial in ensuring the longevity of your Craftsman style doors. Historical significance meets a fresh perspective in Craftsman style homes and furniture. The craftsman must do more than merely replace a door. Some patience, good tools, and coherence to certain details are required to install a door properly. This article will describe the techniques and tools necessary to install a new door. Before describing the step by step process of door installation, it is important to surround the reasons behind choosing this task. Often, a sticky or ill-fitting door is due to foundation settling or fluctuations in relative humidity. Before performing major irreversible repairs to a sticking door, it is wise to observe the door for a full year during various seasons to ensure that it consistently rubs in the same spot. Failure to anticipate future swelling or shrinkage of the door may lead to a poor fit. If the door does not hang plumb, a hinge adjustment may fix the problem. A door hanging significantly out of square may require reframing the door opening. Assuming that these problems have been addressed, the door has simply lived out its life and it is time to replace it.
5.2.1. Cleaning and Finishing
In order to maintain the beauty and longevity of your stylish doors, it is crucial to prioritize the cleaning and finishing process. Proper cleaning and finishing not only enhances the visual appeal of the doors, but also protects them from environmental factors. Applying a high-quality finish can provide a polished look while shielding the doors from moisture and UV damage. Additionally, a thorough cleaning routine helps to remove any built-up dirt or grime, ensuring that the doors maintain their pristine appearance. Regular cleaning and maintenance can also prevent the accumulation of mold or mildew, prolonging the lifespan of the doors. Moreover, choosing the right cleaning products and techniques is essential to avoid damaging the surface of the doors and to ensure their optimal performance. Using mild, non-abrasive cleaners and soft cloths or brushes is recommended to prevent scratches or other physical damage to the doors. Furthermore, it is important to avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive tools that can strip away the protective finish or leave unsightly marks on the surface of the doors. Instead, opt for gentle, environmentally-friendly cleaning solutions and tools that are specifically designed for use on wood surfaces.
5.2.2. Regular Inspections and Repairs
Regular inspections and repairs are essential for maintaining the quality and longevity of your stylish exterior doors. They not only help to identify any potential issues and prevent further damage, but also ensure that your doors continue to enhance the overall aesthetics of your home. Regular inspections and repairs are essential in maintaining the longevity and functionality of your style doors, as well as preserving the visual appeal of your home. They allow you to address any minor issues before they become major problems, ensuring that your home’s exterior remains beautiful and inviting. By conducting regular inspections and repairs, you can ensure that your style doors remain in optimal condition, preventing any potential deterioration and preserving the charm of your home’s exterior.
Additionally, regular maintenance can help to extend the lifespan of your doors, saving you money in the long run. It is recommended to schedule professional inspections and repairs at least once a year to ensure that any potential issues are identified early on. Regular inspections and repairs are crucial for maintaining the longevity and functionality of your exterior doors.
Regular inspections can help to identify and address any structural or aesthetic issues before they become more serious and costly to repair. Additionally, proper maintenance and timely repairs can ensure the longevity and functionality of your stylish doors. Regular inspections and repairs are essential for addressing any potential issues such as damaged hardware or weathering, as well as preventing further deterioration. By identifying and resolving these issues early on, homeowners can maintain the beauty and functionality of their stylish doors for years to come. Regular inspections and repairs can also help to prevent more costly and extensive repairs or replacements in the future. By addressing minor issues promptly, homeowners can save both time and money in the long run. Regular inspections and repairs can catch small problems before they escalate into major issues that require extensive time and financial investments to fix. In addition, regular inspections and repairs contribute to the overall safety and security of your home by ensuring that your stylish doors are in optimal condition.
6. Conclusion
These Craftsman Style Doors are constructed to emulate the initial design of doors found in the craftsman era. The door provides an easy and sufficient look, with routes set into the door panel consisting of straightforward lines or a square design. This may be completed using router sets and craftsmanship to build up the effect. The door style is designed to highlight the beauty and natural expression of wood, with simplicity set into the design. This is a great complement to wooden floors and interior furnishings.
Craftsman style doors have become very popular these days. So many people end up choosing it for their house’s entry door. Whether in the form of an entry door with sidelights or a double entry door, it always manages to attract attention.
Relationship with aesthetics of the house has broadened, gone outside and beyond. Well, the interior is always an essential part. The term “home sweet home” also means a cozy and beautiful shelter from the outside. To create a beautiful home with a matching beautiful interior and exterior is every homeowner’s dream. And elevating the beauty of a house won’t be complete without a stylish door that represents the essence of beauty, elegance, and function. Craftsman style seems to answer those needs, with a combination between function and style in its design. This style of door is one that brings attraction and elegance accompanied with a sense of class to a house.
Ready to upgrade your home’s exterior with timeless elegance? Explore our stunning collection of Craftsman-style exterior doors at Todays Entry Doors. Visit our website now at todaysentrydoors.com to find the perfect door to enhance your home’s curb appeal
