spanish style exterior of home with brown garage and front door

Upgrade with front & garage door replacement: An open-and-shut case

Charlotte home remodeling projects often focus on the interior of our homes and how we want to live and function in our spaces. But there are two very practical items that might not immediately come to mind when you think about home renovation projects: Front doors and garage doors. While interior upgrades often take center stage, your entry doors and garage doors are exterior features that make a huge difference both in your curb appeal and your security. Plus, both consistently return more than 100% of the money you invest in them, according to the 2023 Cost Vs. Value Report. Here are a few reasons why these projects should be added to your list.

Curb Appeal

First impressions really do matter. Your home’s curb appeal is what creates that initial impression, and your front door serves as a focal point. An outdated or worn-out entrance can significantly detract from your home’s overall visual appeal. Upgrading to a stylish front door instantly makes your home more welcoming and visually striking. The choice of a new front door also allows for personalization. Whether you opt for a timeless wooden door, a sleek modern design, or a vibrant and on-trend color, the front door becomes a unique expression of your personal style and should echo the aesthetic of your home.

Likewise, the design of many Charlotte homes puts garage doors front and center (as opposed to around back or on the side of your home). For these residences, garage doors are arguably your real front door, so maintaining them and making sure their style complements the overall design of your home is just as important here as it is for your front door.

brown wooden front door with glass windows

Energy Efficiency

Many of the blogs we’ve written recently have noted that energy efficiency has become an increasing concern for homeowners – and here in Charlotte that applies to summer air conditioning even more than winter heating. What you might not realize is the impact of your doors on your home’s efficiency. Older doors often lack proper insulation, leading to increased utility costs. Many of us remember older door with gaps on the bottom that allowed outside air to pour into our homes. Modern front doors that are made with advanced materials and use new insulation technologies can significantly tighten your home’s building envelope. This not only reduces your environmental impact, it also results in long-term utility savings.

Enhanced Security

Your front door is the primary point of entry into your home, making its security crucial. Newer doors are designed with advanced locking systems and materials that withstand potential break-ins. Investing in a high-quality front door enhances the safety of your home, providing you and your family with an added layer of security and peace of mind. These same considerations apply to additional entry doors (side and rear doors) as well, so don’t scrimp on these secondary doors and entry locks that are often targets of criminals because they may be hidden from the street.

Doors Go High Tech

Okay, they may not yet function like the sliding doors from the original Star Wars movies, but modern doors come equipped with technologies that add convenience to daily life. Smart locks, integrated security systems, and energy-efficient materials are just a few examples of the technological advancements available in doors – regardless of their architectural style.

Adding smart doorbells, cameras, and remote monitoring capabilities provides homeowners with increased control over and awareness of their home’s security – whether they are sound asleep upstairs, in their office in Uptown, or on vacation hours from home.

fiber glass front entry door

Reduce Maintenance

Older doors often require frequent maintenance and repairs, which can add up over time. Newer doors are designed with durability and low maintenance in mind, reducing the need for upkeep. Materials such as fiberglass and steel resist warping, rotting, and other issues associated with traditional materials like wood. This durability not only ensures a longer lifespan for the doors but also minimizes the need for ongoing maintenance.

Garage Doors: An Overlooked Asset

Garage doors play a significant role in your home’s aesthetic appeal and its functionality. Replacing an outdated or malfunctioning garage door can literally transform the entrance that many of us use most often. New garage doors come in a nearly endless variety of styles and materials, allowing you to choose options that complement the architectural design of your home. Add smart technology and you’ll no longer be tied to those old-fashioned garage door openers that eat through batteries. Plus, you’ll never have to question whether you left the garage door open because the answer will be just a tap of an app away.

Boost Your Property Value

As we mentioned earlier, replacing doors is an investment in your home that generally returns more than you spend in value. That’s not surprising when you consider that potential buyers are drawn to homes with curb appeal. Upgraded front and garage doors not only attract potential buyers but also set your home apart in buyers’ minds. Plus, you can enjoy the benefits for as long as you live in your home.

While we always advocate taking a comprehensive approach to home remodeling projects, upgrading entry and garage doors is a “quick fix” that can make a world of difference in how your home looks and functions. As always, if you notice any wood rot or potential water damage around the doors, it’s best to consult with a qualified, professional remodeler who can make certain that there aren’t any hidden issues behind your walls. Need help envisioning how an exterior remodel project can look? Reach out to us at 704.544.0367, Ext. 101 or visit www.PalmerCustomBuilders.com.

By Gary Palmer
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