PHOTO: MADERO, WEISER PHOTO: THINKSTOCK IMAGES
cause moisture and frost can form on the inside of un-insulated doors. Aluminium, steel and fibreglass doors have a typical insulation value of R-5 to R-6. In Canada, steel units remain the top selling exterior door in the market, according to Kelly. The rigidity, ease of maintenance, impressive insulation properties and low cost make them a favourite, especially in regions exposed to extreme cold temperatures. Steel units are also stronger than fibreglass or wood. They do not crack or warp, but may become dented or dinged. Prices start at about $150 per unit without hardware or glazing. Most premium steel doors have a 24-gauge skin and a steel frame. Many doors have a baked on polyester finish that requires periodic repainting, but more expensive models come with a vinyl coating that is more weather-resistant. Some models even have wood-fibre coating or laminated wood veneers. Fibreglass doors are finding increased use in most new home constructions. Although most fibreglass units are not as strong as steel doors, they are tough and stand up to harsh climates. These low-maintenance units come in styles that mimic wood-grain textures and can be stained to emulate oak, cherry, walnut and other woods. They are generally more expensive than steel doors with prices starting at $200 per unit to about $4,000. One disadvantage is that fibreglass doors can crack under strong impact. Aluminium doors also use an insulation core covered by a metal skin. These doors typically have a baked-on enamel finish to eliminate rust and the need for
In recent years door dimensions have also been changing, observes Carlo Ianni, director of sales and marketing for Tru Tech Doors. “I think the current trend of higher ceilings in most new condo units is translating itself to taller doors,” he says. For instance, the popularity of 9’ ceilings has bumped up the usual 6’8” door height to 8’. Larger appliances and greater awareness of accessibility issues are also leading many manufacturers to produce doors that are 36” to 42” wide
painting. There are dozens of styles to choose from with smooth or wood-grain finishes. Aluminium is a very light material and can be dented or scratched. Most models start at around $600. Versatility and natural beauty are the main selling points of wood doors, says Mike Snider, CEO of Madawaska Doors Inc., a Schomberg, Ont. company that specializes in custom-designed doors. Although now increasingly rare in mainstream constructions, wood doors are popular choices for traditional and many high-priced homes. New manufacturing techniques have made wood doors more resistant to warping due to temperature changes. There are
instead of the traditional 32” wide doors. Many custom home projects are also leaning towards glass-pane and sidepanel inserts to lend an air of uniqueness to the front door, Ianni says. “When using glass panels, be mindful of your door’s orientations,” he points out. “Ideally you would like a glass paned door where the sun is shining to let in more light. A south-facing or tree-shaded location could mean a cold door.” Contractors as well as DIY-inclined homeowners can jazz up an otherwise
hardwood varieties that are resistant to termites, and some manufacturers stain or apply polyurethane finish to wood doors to prevent the absorption of moisture and swelling. Expensive units are made of solid oak, cherry, walnut, mahogany, maple, fir, pine or other exotic varieties and start at around $600, with complete systems retailing for up to $6,000 and some custom designed units costing more than $10,000. A cheaper alternative is wood veneer units with injected insulation material at their core. These doors sell for around $300 to $600 and offer better insulation values than conventional units (around R-5 compared to R-2).
plain doorway by adding some simple touches that need not break the bank. “For example, hinges, door knobs and lock sets that come with various finishes and designs can evoke certain period styles,” Sexsmith says. Arches and decorative casings can be easily constructed and installed using pre-formed wood or synthetic materials to add visual impact to a doorway. Drama can also be achieved with minimal cost through the use of unconventional colours like deep blue and bright red or the use of strategic lighting.
CONTRACTOR ADVANTAGE
JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2013
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