Front doors are so much more than a way to enter and leave your home. Custom doors can be works of art that welcome your guests and frame their first view of your home's interior. They also serve practical purposes, which include:

• Security. Especially since custom doors tend to be heavier and to have top quality hardware
• Potential tax advantages. Many are so energy efficient that they may earn you a tax credit
• Light control. They can let in all the light you want or, conversely, provide total anonymity
• Aesthetics. Custom doors can complement any architectural style from rustic to ultra-contemporary
• Durability. Custom doors are likely to provide decades of frequent use without sagging or coming apart.
• Design options. Shapes are limited only by your imagination--rectangular, arched, vaulted, elliptical, etc.

New Technologies Solve Problems Old Doors Didn't Address

There's a lot to be learned about today's custom doors. You can order them from a national manufacturer or from your favorite local craftsman. Either way, check the U-Factor (rate of heat loss) and SHGC (Solar Heat Gain Coefficient or rate of solar penetration) if you want a tax credit. Materials include:

• Wood: Many grains and species to choose from. Some doors are fire- and hurricane-rated. Upkeep required.
• Fiberglass: Durable in all climates. Authentic wood grain looks. Little maintenance.

• Steel: Often made with decorative panes inset or overlaid with scroll work, natural themes, etc.
• Insulated: Fire-and hurricane-rated. No termite or water damage.

Use Decorative Accents in Custom Doors

If you use a local cabinet-maker, add decorative elements or native materials such as:

• Bands of aluminum, brass, copper, etc.
• Pebbles, shells, turquoise
• Tiles, including mosaic patterns or small glass tiles

As you can see, sky's the limit for beautiful, imaginative custom doors. Start your idea list today!