Front entry doors can make or break a home's curb appeal. A door that's outdated, lacking in visual punch, or mismatched from a home's overall style will detract from rather than add beauty. On the other hand, the right door can enhance your home's style and create a welcoming entrance for visitors.

Like many renovation projects, selecting entry doors can feel like a huge undertaking. Creating a list of priorities in three important areas will help make the process less overwhelming and much more fun.

Entry Doors: Visual Appeal and Style

Your entry door can be anything from a simple rectangle with a door knob to a double-hung, 10 foot tall giant with sidelights and dramatic decorative moldings. You'll be best served to use your home's overall architectural style as a guide: a two-bedroom beach bungalow and a Santa-Fe style house in the desert will call for very different doors. Ask yourself:

• Does the architecture of my home necessitate a certain door style?
• Do I want a door that can be painted to match trim or would I prefer a traditional wood stained look?
• How simple or dramatic should my entry doors appear?

Functional Requirements for Entry Doors

In addition to looking good your entry door must serve its actual functions, which lie primarily in creating privacy, establishing safety, and keeping out the elements. While glass front entry doors are beautiful, they probably don't make sense for a home set close to a busy street. Ask yourself:

• How much privacy do I need?
• What kind of weather conditions will the door face?
• Is energy efficiency an important factor in my decision?

Entry Doors Have a Range of Price Options

Unless you've recently struck gold or won the lottery, you'll have to come down to earth eventually and consider price. The cost of your entry door will vary widely based on whether it's made of steel, fiberglass, or wood; other elements that impact price include size, windows, and molding details. Entry doors range in cost from $135 up to about $2,500. Ask yourself:

• What budget have I established for this project?
• What features are "must-haves" and which are optional?
• What warranties might be available?

Choosing an entry door can be a big decision. If you're still feeling overwhelmed, consider consulting with a contractor or experts at the local home improvement store for more detailed advice.