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Tag: front door

Today's Entry Doors > Blog > front door
How To Choose The Right Size Front Door
Products, Doors, Our Products

How to Choose the Right Size for Your Front Door

June 13, 20220

How To Choose The Right Size
Front Door In Orange County

Save Yourself Time And Money With These
Helpful Tips From The Experts

Choosing the right size entry door can be quite the confusing experience for some Orange County homeowners, and we don’t blame them! If you are one of many homeowners looking to replace their front entry door, you are in the right place.

Homes that are currently being built offer the largest opportunity for customizing the size of front door and additional features.

Homes typically have strict restrictions on how large or small a front entry door can be to maintain structural integrity, so you want to make sure you are choosing the right size.

Let’s talk about how Orange County homeowners can choose the right size front door!

Initial Measurements

While most door installation teams will measure your home for exact numbers upon arrival for the consultation, it’s always a good idea to have a rough idea of your current front door size. This will help us determine which door styles you have available for your home along with a rough estimate of the price.

Measuring your front entry door is a pretty simple task and should only take you a few minutes.

First, it’s important to keep in mind you want to measure only the door while excluding any trim or jamb.

Take your tape measure and place it as flat as you can across the width of the door to get your first measurement, the typical front door is roughly 36 inches wide.

To measure the height, simply place your tape measure in the middle of the door at the bottom and record the number that the top of the door rests at. The typical front door is roughly 80 inches in height.

These two measurements will give us enough information to curate a list of front doors for your home!

Choosing The Right Size Front Door For A Standing Home

Depending on how your home was built, you could have a lot of options when it comes to the size of your front door, or you could have very few. Before making any structural changes to your home, be sure to contact the original builder or have your new contractor review the blueprints and floor plan.

Many homes can actually accommodate a larger size door than the one that was originally installed, but this extra space is often taken up by walls, windows, or sidelights.

In this day and age, no matter what size front door your home requires, there is a seemingly endless list of door style options.

It may cost a little extra upfront to have your doorway widened for a larger door, but it can greatly increase the value of the home.

Choosing The Right Size Front Door On A New Home

Let’s face it, sometimes the only true way to achieve your dream home is by having it built yourself from the ground up. This way, you can fine-tune each and every detail about the home in the first go without having to hire additional home contractors.

If you are currently having your home built, you have a lot of options when it comes to choosing the size of your front door. Similar to other trends, bigger is typically always better!

Opting for an 8-foot tall door, for example, can completely transform your home’s entryway into a grand masterpiece. If you really want your home to stand out from the rest, double doors are sure to draw the eye.

At the end of the day, it comes down to what you want! When it comes to front door sizes, the world is truly your oyster.

Additional Things To Keep In Mind

Similar to other home remodeling projects, replacing your front entry door isn’t necessarily cheap. While our front doors are proven to give you the best bang for your buck, you still want to make sure you do your due diligence before making any purchases.

Be sure to keep in mind the following key points when choosing the right size front door for your home:

  • Cost: This is a big one for most Orange County homeowners. The cheapest door replacement is one that utilizes the space already in a home. The larger the door, the larger the price point.
  • Time: If your home is structurally built for 80-inch doors, but now you want to have 96-inch doors installed, it’s going to take some time. Because the front door plays such a big role in the home, it’s imperative to have a study front door. Sometimes the best front door is the one that can be replaced as quickly as possible to ensure maximum safety and energy efficiency.
  • Availability: Having your heart set on one specific style of door may prove disappointing if it is not available in your preferred size. The best course of action to avoid disappointment is to first determine the size front door you would like, then look for styles and color choices.

Still Confused About What Size Front Door You Need?
Don’t Worry, We Are Here To Help!

At Today’s Entry Doors, we take the guessing game out of choosing a new front door. Because fiberglass entry doors are our specialty, we have years of experience helping homeowners determine the right size front door for their homes.

If you are an Orange County homeowner struggling to find the right size front door, reach out to us!

We can be reached Tuesday-Saturday by calling our office located in Orange at (714) 974-5728 or by contacting us today!

front-door-with-sidelights
Products, Doors, Our Products

Five Rules When Choosing Sidelights For Your Front Door

February 11, 20220

You may be in the process of looking for an amazing new front door to accent your home and front entryway. If you are looking for a beautiful door that allows even more light in, a sidelight for your door may be an excellent choice. Today’s Entry Doors knows how important it is to find the right door with the best accents, and we can help to walk you through the process of finding a front door with a sidelight. Simply, sidelights fit along either, or both sides of your door and are vertical, narrow windows that can be installed on either one or both sides of your front door. But, what are the five rules when choosing sidelights for your front door?

Style

The first rule in choosing a sidelight for your front door is to consider the style of your home. You may have a craftsman-style home or perhaps a modern-style home, so looking at style is important. Not only that, but you want to take a look at your roof line to ascertain if a sidelight would accent this and if there is already enough natural light coming through the front of your home. Sidelights allow more light to be absorbed into your home, which can create a warmth of togetherness. They create an open feeling in your home, and there are many styles to choose from. But, the rule of thumb is to first really take a look at the architectural style of your home when choosing the best sidelight for your front door.

Selecting The Best Size

Sidelights are vertical and can be added to either one or both sides of your door. Some homeowners only want them on one side because they are happy with the amount of light being let in, and the front area may be a bit smaller. However, there are many that like the grandness and natural feeling of having them on both sides of the door. Not only does this increase the light, but it increases the focus on the front door because the design is balanced.

Privacy & Security

Privacy and security are important, but this does not mean that installing a sidelight is not an option. There are options for certain types of textured glass to be used, and this allows the natural light in but still gives you privacy because no visitors can physically see into your home. Some people also choose to install a transom which is a window over the front door to accent the balance of the sidelights on both ends, which can also be done in any size or shape and glass. If security and privacy are still a concern, Today’s Entry Doors can help with many additional security features we have to offer our clientele that worry about security.

Energy Efficiency

Some homeowners are concerned that their bills may be a bit higher because more light is being let into the home. However, this is not the case with sidelights. It’s important to focus on the fact that the type of glass you are choosing, along with a possible brand new front door, can actually lead to energy savings and much more efficiency. Today’s Entry Doors can help you select the door and install it with our own process, which leads to a more secure front door installed securely into your home’s frame, with greater energy efficiency.

Cost

Cost can differ depending on the type of sidelights that you choose. Sometimes, homeowners are interested in just one to accent the door or two to balance the front entryway and make that area feel more welcoming. It’s important to focus on the materials that are chosen and whether or not you are looking for fabricated or custom and consider the size of the sidelights. Today’s Entry Doors can come directly to you, take measurements, and give you an estimate depending on your vision of your sidelights and front entryway. This way you have a lot of wonderful options!

Why You Should Choose Today’s Entry Doors

Here at Today’s Entry Doors, we offer Orange County homeowners several customizable front entry door choices, but it’s important to know about the basics of door sizes and styles before you start, and we make it easy. 

With all of the choices out there, it’s important to have a company that understands both door size, door style, and also installation. We are different here at Today’s Entry Doors, and we take pride in what we do and even have our own installation process that is time-tested and true. It’s amazing what we can create for your home by replacing your front door; it can make a huge difference in the look and feel of your home.

Today’s Entry Doors Has Got You Covered

We truly believe in our products and our ability to provide excellent customer service and installation.  Because of our warranty, guarantee, and dedication to craftsmanship, we want our customers to be completely satisfied with our work.  Today’s Entry Doors is committed to doors and door installation, and this is all we do.  We are qualified experts in helping your home to become even more beautiful.  Our warranty provides you with the peace of mind you can count on and we are so committed to our work and proud to have gained respect in the community.

We can also create some customizable options which will factor in style, material, and color to ensure that your front entry door with sidelight is customized.  It’s always important to consider the style of your home when choosing sidelight options and also to make sure that security and a welcoming environment are also addressed.

Ready to install sidelights for your front door?   If you are in the Orange County, CA area, please feel free to reach out to us and schedule your free consultation. We are happy to answer any questions you may have about choosing and installing the perfect door for your beautiful home.

beautiful-front-entry-door-todays-entry-doors
Entry Doors, Products, Uncategorized

Questions To Ask When Buying A New Entry Door

December 21, 20210

The Best Questions To Ask When Buying A New Front Door

Looking to replace your front door? There are many questions to think about before selecting the best type of door for the front entrance of your home. You may be thinking about style, color, and even a beautiful handle and door knocker, however there are some very specific and important questions to ask before you choose the right door for your home. Here at Today’s Entry Doors, we have a large selection of beautiful doors that can change the entire look of your home and make a true statement. Our door replacement company can help you make the best decision, but what are the best questions to ask when buying a new front door?

Style

Let’s focus on style first. With so many choices, this is truly the fun and creative part of the process. You have a vision in mind but aren’t exactly sure what materials would be best. It’s great to focus on the architectural style of your home, the accenting colors, and also what materials your home is made of. Don’t forget that the types of doors we offer can be customized, so if you are looking for a solid fiberglass door with a glass insert to allow in the light, this can be accomplished. There are also architectural styles like craftsman, contemporary, and dutch doors.

Next is the color. This is one of the most exciting parts of the process. There are so many shades to choose from, and if you choose a fiberglass door, the sky’s the limit! Perhaps your personality is saying, “I want something bright and bold and modern.” Or, instead, you are looking for a traditional door with a subdued shade. Either way, Today’s Entry Doors can create this for you.

Security

A new entry door must be secure. Part of this is the hardware you will choose for your actual door such as locks, handles, deadbolts, hinges, levers and knobs, and accessories such as doorbells and door bumpers. Because security is so important these days, you also want a solid door that can ensure your safety, keep pests out, and also be incredibly strong.

Materials

So many options, but which materials are best for my front door? Fiberglass is an excellent option because it is durable, has a wonderful warranty, and also holds up much better than wood when it comes to the elements. The best part about fiberglass is that it can be made to look exactly like wood and can be finished in so many different colors and styles. This is one of our best-selling doors at Today’s Entry Doors because of its durability and lifespan. It is secure, resists damage, and holds up well to the sun.

One of the best fiberglass doors is the Therma-Tru Doors. They hold one of the best warranties, are solid and secure, and hold up to the weather. But, where can you buy a Therma-Tru door? Here at Today’s Entry Doors! They are the top brand we have in stock for our clients because they are so energy-efficient.

It’s Your Choice

The process is a lot of fun for both our clients and our team here at Today’s Entry Doors.  We can create a pre-hung door for you or go through the entire customization process.  The choices are endless and we have extensive experience with installing doors- it’s what we do!  We stand behind our promise and all of our products offer a wonderful warranty for our customers and their doors.  Because we created our own method of installation that is proprietary to our organization, the installation process is easy and stress-free.

Today’s Entry Doors goes the extra mile to give you several customizable options to ensure that you are safe and secure in your home. Plus, be sure to check out our door gallery and see why we are the top door replacement company out there!

Interested in replacing your front entry door?   If you are in the Orange County, CA area, please feel free to reach out to us and schedule your free consultation. We are happy to answer any questions you may have about choosing and installing the perfect door for your beautiful home.

Double Front Door Orange County CA
Doors

Are double front doors worth it?

October 5, 20210

Curious about double entry doors?

If we were to go out and ask Orange County, CA, homeowners how many times they’ve walked through a single entry door… they probably wouldn’t know. But, we know the answer is countless times because they’re quite standard and ultra-common, especially when looking at the construction-grade models installed when homes are built.

How about double entry doors, though?

If you have a home which has either double doors or can accommodate double doors, one of the inevitable considerations along with color, height, glass, and material is whether to invest in a new custom set.

Is it worth it?

Let’s take a look at the basics.

What Exactly Are Double Entry Doors, Anyway?

Simply put, we’re talking about entry doors with two slabs instead of one. These allow for a much wider entrance and more artistic expression — style. And, as you might expect, this means their frame is bigger and stronger. Plus, you’ve got the entire gauntlet of accessories to customize with.

Here at Today’s Entry Doors, one of the most popular double entry doors is dutch. With Double Dutch Doors, you have not two but four operable sections to your entryway. Here’s an example directly from our project galleries, along with the primary photo we attached to this article.

As you can see, double dutch doors give you a lot more control. You can have just the tops open, or maybe just one of the tops, with the bottoms firmly closed to keep kids and pets inside. Or, you can have two solid doors for a more traditional look:

What Are The Main Benefits Of Double Entry Doors?

The pros of double entry doors are easy: increased curb appeal, increased property value, a much wider entrance, and a much more dazzling focal point to your Orange County home.

No more worrying about how to get couches or the piano into your home. No more issues with minimal entry door security. No more wishing you had a fantastic and unique entry door.

What Are The Cons?

First and foremost, the initial price tag. However, these are offset by homeowner satisfaction, increased curb appeal, and home value.

Then you need to consider the wider entrance and doors.

  • How much wall space will they take up?
  • What will the implications be for your overall entryway to have a double-wide framing installed?
  • Is your home actually big enough to justify this large of an entrance?

The renovation to go from a standard single entry door to a double entry door is often a bit more complex than homeowners assume. At Today’s Entry Doors we’re known for impeccable, professional work, but we want you to know exactly what to expect.

Can You Have Transoms & Sidelites?

Absolutely. If you have a General Contractor enlarge your present opening, Today’s would be happy to quote on a door set that includes sidelights and transoms. Are you trying to get something generic from a big box store or an average window & door company?

Or, instead, are you interested in a custom, high-quality double entry door custom-made to your specific needs? There’s a world of difference. Here’s another example from our Entry Door Galleries:

Wrapping Up: Key Takeaways

Double entry doors are two-door slabs conjoined together into one magnificent entryway. While they cost more, the value they bring is considerable over their single-door counterparts. If you’re in the Orange County, CA area and you have more questions, feel free to Contact Today’s Entry Doors at your convenience.

We consider ourselves prominent door scientists, and we’re happy to take the time.

  • Double entry doors have a tremendous, dramatic impact on your home’s overall look.
  • With that much room, moving things like large furniture in and out is a breeze.
  • Double entry doors have plenty of room for gorgeous stylistic elements.
  • Like single entry, you can use glass, sidelites, and transom windows to let in more light.
Secure Double Dutch Entry Door
Doors, Door Security

What Is The Most Secure Front Door Material?

September 30, 20210

When you’re shopping around and researching new entry door options, the benefits of security are always a big issue. All styling and aesthetics aside, the last thing our Orange County, CA customers want are burglars.

Did you know that most home burglaries aren’t committed by professional or experienced thieves?

Most often, they’re done at random and by inexperienced, desperate people.

Nothing makes them move on and away from a home quicker than an obvious high-quality, high-security entry door. They aren’t worth the trouble. Even the strongest of men will over-exert themselves and make a tremendous racket trying to kick them in.

But the question is, when it comes to materials, which is the most secure?

  • Wood?
  • Fiberglass?
  • Steel?

Like so many other good questions in this world, the answer is “It depends on…” a variety of things. First and foremost, who you’re asking.

If you talk to a door company that only installs wood, they’re going to talk up the modern security of wooden doors over other options. The same thing goes for steel. And, here at Today’s Entry Doors, we focus on nothing but Fiberglass Entry Doors, so our focus is their premium security features (coupled with some of our own).

Each material has its pros and cons, but if installed incorrectly or sloppily, even the most secure front door will lose a good percentage of its integrity.

Wood Entry Door Security

Even solid wood doors are going to be less energy efficient and require more maintenance to stay ‘like new’ and secure. Wood breaks down. Wood rots. Wood eventually will succumb to the elements, especially if neglected.

What about a solid wood door & frame system with a proper deadbolt and jamb reinforcement?

It still isn’t going to compete with superior, harder, and more durable materials like fiberglass and steel. Sure, it’s just as hard to kick through a solid oak or mahogany door, but the jamb is usually what breaks first.

Steel Entry Door Security

No one denies that insulated steel entry door systems (solid would be too heavy) are among the most secure in the industry. While they used to be almost exclusively used for commercial businesses, they’ve become more popular in the residential market because of their lower costs compared to high-caliber fiberglass.

And what happens when you kick or abuse a steel door? They can dent, get dings, and nasty scratches. When all is said and done, when side by side, a quality fiberglass and steel front door system will have similar levels of security. However, fiberglass pulls ahead in both styling and energy efficiency.

Fiberglass Entry Door Security

Fiberglass doesn’t dent. It doesn’t ding. And it’s harder to scratch. Custom fiberglass front door systems are at the cutting-edge of home security across the board. Here’s a short video we made to demonstrate the point and provide a bit more visual evidence.

3 Things WE Do To Improve Security With Fiberglass Doors For Our Orange County, CA Customers.

  1. We invented our own proprietary method and exclusive product, so your locking mechanism is attached to not just the door frame, but also reinforced by being attached to the actual sub-structure of your home. This makes kicking in the door a LOT harder.
  2. The key to our extra secure installation is a 16-gauge steel security plate designed by Today’s Entry Doors. This plate is installed as reinforcement where the lock meets the door, and then this plate is in turn attached to your house frame.
  3. We use extra-long screws in multiple places for each hinge. This makes a huge difference in how hard it would be to breach the hinge side of the door. Our method of using extra-long screws also helps keeps the door jamb from being spread apart and sagging.

If you’d like to learn more, please visit our page on Safety & Security.

In Conclusion: It’s Typically Fiberglass or Steel

Key Takeaways

  • We can debate material differences, but at the end of the day, the ‘Most Secure’ entry doors are not going to have windows. They’re solid. No glass. No fancy sidelites (especially on the lock side). While not as aesthetically pleasing, this is a fact.
  • Nothing compares to a custom, superior-quality entry door system of either fiberglass or steel. Common, inexpensive options from retailers simply can’t compete.
  • When you work with a company like Today’s Entry Doors, you get the best security features and deadbolt mechanisms installed by a professional.

We at Today’s Entry Doors believe our fiberglass doors are among the most secure out there. But, we’re not a massive corporation and only really serve homeowners in the Orange County, CA area. What it comes down to for you is your installer. What are they doing to make their doors secure, or are they barely focused on that issue?

If you’re in our part of the country, consider fiberglass and Contact Today’s Entry Doors. We’ll happily answer all your questions, address the security points thoroughly, and walk you through your options. Thanks for your time, and we look forward to hearing from you soon.

pros and cons phrase in reference to fiberglass versus steel doors
Products

Fiberglass Doors Vs. Steel Doors

December 28, 20200

Steel Is Great, But We Think Fiberglass Is Better. We Think You’ll Agree.

In the world of doors, fiberglass and steel often become lumped together. They’re both considered alternatives to wood doors. They’re both incredibly strong, meaning that you’ll have better security than you might with other doors. But fiberglass and steel doors are not equal in terms of quality, and it’s likely that one is better for your Orange County home than the other. How can you know which is the best for you? In today’s blog, let’s break down the pros and cons of both fiberglass and steel doors.

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Products

Make Your Double Front Door Burglar-Proof

December 10, 20200

Double Front Doors Add A Nice Touch To Any Orange County Home, But They Can Pose Some Security Risks. Take These Precautions, To Keep Your Double Front Doors Secure.

Your front doors make a great first impression and can go far in boosting your curb appeal. It’s for this reason that many homeowners like to go all out with double front doors. But your front door is for more than just looks. It should also be your first line of defense against burglars. A secure front door will make for a safer home.

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