Exterior Door Replacement Types & Styles
Your front door style is the first thing guests notice. Your patio doors frame the view you enjoy every evening. Even your side and back doors quietly shape how you move through daily life. The truth is, exterior doors aren’t just functional – they define your home’s security, appearance, and comfort!
If your doors are drafty, outdated, or simply don’t reflect your home anymore, it may be time for an exterior door replacement. From classic exterior door styles to modern patio designs, today’s exterior door types and materials give you more choices than ever. This guide will walk you through the most popular styles, explain when to replace each one, and help you find the perfect door installation contractor for your home!
Exterior Doors Types by Styles
A great exterior door style combines beauty with practicality, creating a home that feels inviting, efficient, and protected. Let’s walk through the most popular exterior door types so you can see which one is the perfect fit for your home.
Front Entry Doors
Your front door is more than just an entry point, it’s the first impression of your home. Popular front door styles range from classic wood to low-maintenance fiberglass and secure steel. A well-maintained front door can last 20–30 years, but if you notice drafts, warping, or fading finishes, it’s time to consider an exterior door replacement.
Explore front door entry costs with Smucker & Sons!
Storm Doors
Storm doors act as a protective layer in front of your entry door, shielding it from rain, snow, and UV damage while providing ventilation during warmer months. Typically built from aluminum or vinyl with tempered glass, storm doors last about 15–20 years. Replace them when the frame becomes bent, the screen tears, or the glass seals fail otherwise they stop doing their job of protecting the main entry door.
Patio Doors
Patio doors connect indoor living spaces with outdoor patios, decks, or backyards. They come in sliding, French, and folding styles, often featuring large glass panes for natural light. High-quality patio doors last 20–30 years, but foggy glass, sticking tracks, or compromised locks are signs they need replacing.
Curious about what’s new? Step into our showroom and see today’s most popular exterior door styles up close.
Back or Side Doors (Garage Side Doors, Basement Walkout Doors, etc.)
Back and side doors may feel more practical than decorative, but their style still plays an important role in your home’s overall look. These secondary entrances are often used just as much (if not more) than the front door, which means they show wear faster. On average, they last about 15–25 years before needing replacement. When getting any exterior door replaced, consider a style that balances durability with curb appeal, since these doors are part of your home’s everyday rhythm.
Exterior Door Types by Materials
Equally as important as what your doors look like is what they’re made of! The right exterior door material can change everything, from how secure your home feels to the character it adds to your exterior. Some materials bring timeless charm, others focus on durability and low maintenance, and a few strike a balance of both. Let’s take a look at the most common exterior door materials so you can find the one that feels like the perfect match for your home.
Wood Doors
Wood doors remain a classic choice for homeowners who value warmth and timeless appeal. They’re highly customizable, available in countless stains, paints, and carved designs, making them perfect for creating a beautiful front porch. While they require regular upkeep to protect against weather, wood doors are most often used as front entry doors or decorative double doors where style is a priority.
Fiberglass Doors
This exterior door type is known for blending durability with design flexibility. Fiberglass doors resist dents, scratches, and moisture while offering excellent insulation for energy efficiency! Because they can mimic the rich look of wood without the constant maintenance, fiberglass is a popular exterior door material option for patio doors, back doors, and even front door styles with glass inserts!
Steel Doors
Steel doors provide superior security and strength, often with insulated cores for energy savings. They’re commonly used for front entries, garage side doors, and utility entrances.
Aluminum Doors
Aluminum doors provide a modern, streamlined appearance while being lightweight and corrosion-resistant. They require minimal upkeep, making them preferred by busy homeowners who want both function and clean design. You’ll often see aluminum used for storm doors or contemporary-style front entries.
Glass Doors
Glass doors maximize natural light and create an open feel, while reinforced glass maintains safety. They’re most associated with sliding patio doors, French doors, and decorative front entries.
How to Choose the Right Door for Your Home
Choosing the right exterior door means striking a balance between security, style, and comfort – all while keeping your climate, budget, and lifestyle in mind. Maybe you need a door tough enough to withstand kids running in and out all day, or perhaps you’re after a showpiece that instantly boosts resale value. Whatever your priorities, the best choice is the one that fits seamlessly into the way you live.
Once you’ve found the right style, make sure it’s installed the right way. Even the highest-quality door won’t deliver on its promise if it isn’t installed properly. That’s why working with a professional installer is so important!
Upgrade Your Home with Smucker & Sons
When it’s time for an exterior door replacement, don’t settle for guesswork, let Smucker & Sons guide you through our process! Our team makes it simple to choose the right door by combining expert advice with professional, certified installation you can trust.
Visit our showroom to see today’s front door styles and exterior door types in person, ask questions, and explore options that fit your home’s look, budget, and lifestyle. From selecting the perfect design to ensuring a flawless installation, we handle every step with care.
