What Should I Consider When Buying Metal Doors?

Metal doors can provide one of the best values on the market today, especially when compared to other door materials. They do not warp, last a considerable period of time and can be as aesthetically pleasing as most other doors. However, some things about metal doors are unique and should be kept in mind when an individual is looking to make a purchasing decision.

The versatility of the metal door is unmatched. It can be an entrance door or front door. It can be an exterior door used in a commercial setting or a residential setting. While metal commercial doors are usually less attractive than residential doors, it shows just how many applications the material is suitable for.

Although some may be tempted to buy a door larger than the size of the opening and trim it down, this is not recommended with metal doors. Even if it could be done, the task of cutting the door and making it look right would take specialized tools that most home owners simply do not possess. Therefore, it is very important to get the size of the metal door correct.

Metal doors may not look right when painted different colors. Painting a metal door with certain types of paint just may not look right. If that is a concern, check the paint and the door and make sure they are compatible. Some paints may streak. Others may begin to prematurely chip and crack. Either way, it may not be the look a homeowner desires.

Also, keep in mind that not all metal doors are fire-resistant, at least to the same extent. Some metal doors are specially rated based on how long they can resist a fire. While doors with a higher rating may cost more, if this is an important consideration for you, keep this in mind at the time you are making the purchasing decision. While no one wants to think of what may happen in a house fire, interior doors made of metal could be the difference between life and death.

Even though many people may prefer metal doors because they are marketed as security doors, it is important to keep in mind that some metal doors may not offer any more security than wooden doors or other types of doors. Security is less dependent on a material than how strong or thick the material is, and the workmanship that goes into the door. Also, the type of lock on the door plays a crucial role, whether the door is metal or not.

In addition, consumers should understand while metal doors may come in certain designs, those designs may not always be available in stock. In some cases, a retailer will have to make a special order. While this will take some additional time, the benefits of the metal door may outweigh any short-term inconvenience.