You never get a second chance to make a first impression. Even if your family uses a side door to make their entrances and exits, the front door is the first thing most guests and neighbors will notice about your abode. As you renovate, think of doors to add beauty and value to your home.

1. Front Doors: When purchasing any exterior or entryway door consider the following:

• materials
• durability
• security
• frequency of use
• weather-resistance
• your home's architecture.

Steel, African mahogany, and white oak tend to be the most weather-proof. Fiberglass doors provide the appearance of wood, while being warp and rust-resistant. Arched exterior doors add an elegant feel.

Small-gauge, steel doors provide the most protection. Doors that fit tightly into their frames, and non-removable interior hinge pins, also add security. Avoid glass panels on exterior doors, if security is a major concern.

2. French Doors: While they originated in the 17^th century as balcony doors, French doors are currently popular as decorative interior doors, and exterior doors for rooms requiring a lot of natural light.

Varieties of these popular interior and exterior doors include the following:

• double doors
• pocket doors
• antique doors
• four-panel folding doors.

When installing French doors, your door jamb will probably need to be modified. Add a bottom lock for extra security with exterior French doors.

3. Patio Doors and Sliding Glass Doors: A swinging patio door will offer a tighter seal, and thus greater energy efficiency, than a sliding glass door. However, sliding glass doors with multiple layers, low-emittance coatings, and low conductivity gasses between panes also offer good insulation.

4. Storm Doors: These outer doors are installed adjacent to interior doors. They provide energy savings by insulating your home against inclement weather, particularly during winter.

5. Custom Doors: Whether for the interior or exterior of your home, custom doors cost more than stock doors from major retailers. Hand-carved wood, stained-glass and frosted glass panels, wrought iron hardware and decorative fixtures are just a few of the options. Hire a licensed contractor, who specializes in custom doors, if you choose this route.

For a quick renovation project, few home features are simpler to add - or more personalizing - than new doors. Shop around for the best options today, and add a brand new look to your home, tomorrow!