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What to consider when choosing a wooden front door

Published on 20 Dec 2022

Your front door is one of the first things people see when they visit your home. As a focal point for your exterior, it should make an unforgettable impression.

When it comes to materials, wood remains an enduringly popular choice for South African homes. A beautiful wooden entry door is a warm and welcoming feature. The material works well for both traditional homes and those with a modern flair. While you can’t go wrong with a wooden door choice, there’s still much to consider to get the most out of it.

Your property inspiration

From the moment you set your eyes on this seven-bedroom Constantia home, you’ll be instantly smitten. It is an “original manor house” brought up to date with a touch of class. Built in 1937, the home is solid but stylish. It is a harmonious blend of modern-day fittings and yesteryear charm.

One of the features you’ll be glad to see preserved is the front door. This carved wooden beauty sets the tone as you enter. “Elegant” and “stately” are words that come to mind as one moves from the gracious foyer to the comfortable living rooms beyond. There’s a wonderful flow in this property as beautiful woods are featured throughout the design scheme.

The benefits of a wooden front door

There’s no doubt the Constantia home entrance is the pride of the homeowner. Wooden doors have a timeless appeal and plenty of pros for a property:

Natural beauty: No one can deny the visual impact of a wooden door. It has a classic elegance that suits most styles of homes. Wooden doors give a warm feeling when you see them. It’s unsurprising that many cultures consider the material as lucky. What’s also interesting, is that studies show visual exposure to wood can help relieve stress.

Plenty of options: Wood’s popular appeal also lies in its variety. You can make your entrance door rustic with cedar or knotty pine, traditional with oak or mahogany, or modern with bamboo or teak.

Easy to buy and install: Most door specialists will have a wide range of wooden doors to choose from. You’ll easily find one that matches expectations within your area or online. When it comes to installing, wood is an easier DIY option than heavier materials like iron.

Customisable: Wood can be custom-made to fit any size entrance or trimmed down to a specific size. The material comes in unique grains but can easily be stained or painted to match your unique sense of style. The versatile material can also be integrated with glass or metals for even further look options.

Durable and secure: Most wooden doors are solid and can withstand damage. They can keep out even the most determined burglars when fitted with a night latch and deadlock. Wooden front doors with the right finish are also able to stand up to weather elements. Another plus is that these doors are easily repaired.

Good insulation: Wooden doors work well to reduce outdoor noise from penetrating into your space. Besides sound insulation, they also insulate heat, keeping homes warm during the winter months and cutting down on heating bill costs.

Environmentally friendly: Because wooden doors are made from natural materials, they are often more eco-friendly to manufacture. They last a number of years meaning you won’t have to replace them in a hurry. And when you do, wood can be recycled or upcycled into other products.

front wooden door

What to watch out for with wooden front doors

There’s no question that wooden doors hold great appeal for homes. While they are primed to add beauty and character to your home, there are a few things to keep in mind when buying a front door:

Price: The more durable and appealing the wooden door, the more you can expect to pay in price. You can, however, pick up some quality mid-range doors. On the other end of the spectrum are antique doors like the Constantia home that have a unique design.

Location: If you live in a harsh or humid climate, you’ll need to take extra good care of your wooden door. Exposure to sun, wind, and rain can dull doors or warp or bubble them if they are not properly sealed. Coastal regions can see wooden doors experience termite or wood-borer damage.

Maintenance: Like all front doors, your wooden door will need regular maintenance to keep it in tip-top condition. It should be dusted and cleaned with a mild soap, and given a polish. Any fixtures should also be cleaned to maintain your door’s look. Over time the finish can fade, so you’ll need to repaint or revarnish after a few years.

Overhang: To boost your door’s longevity, consider installing an awning or canopy to protect it against harsh weather. Besides being helpful when entering your home during rainy weather, overhang structures will also help make your home cooler during the warmer summer months.

Your home should inspire you

The front entrance of your home is a taster of what people can expect before they enter your home. A glorious wooden front door can reflect your sophistication, style, and love of all the good things in life. At Lew Geffen Sotheby's International Realty, we take pride in finding homes that fit your needs and your lifestyle. View our portfolio of extraordinary properties for sale and get in touch with our team of property professionals today.

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