If your existing exterior doors are old, underinsulated, or improperly sealed, you need to replace them. Many homeowners opt for new entry doors for their looks, but if you’re looking to keep your cooling and heating bills down while increasing your comfort level at the same time, you would be wise to invest in energy-efficient models.

Material

The material you select for your new entry door will have a big effect on its energy efficiency. Solid wood doors may be beautiful, but they don’t give you the insulation and energy efficiency of other modern materials. A 1.5-inch-thick fiberglass or insulated steel door, for example, will give you at least 5x the insulating value of a solid wood door of similar thickness.

• Fiberglass entry doors are durable yet light, and resist against denting and rust for superior longevity. They draw their energy efficiency from their dense polyurethane cores. If you love the look of wood, you can choose a fiberglass with a wood grain texture so you get the best of both worlds.
• Steel entry doors have a steel outer shell with a polyurethane core for optimal efficiency. Some steel doors also have magnetic weather stripping to keep leaks at bay  that may arise between the door and frame. Steel doors are also extremely secure, long-lasting, and resist against cracking and warping.

Efficiency of Glass Panels

Whether you want a patio door with glass from top to bottom, or you’re looking for a front door with a decorative glass panel, consider the fact that glass doors lose more heat than any other type of door. Of course, the insulating capabilities of glass have gotten a boost in recent years thanks to the latest in technology.

Be on the lookout for features such as double and triple glazing, low-e coatings, thermal breaks, and low-conductivity gas fills. These typically increase the cost of glass doors, but you will find they are worth the investment.

Storm Doors

If your existing door is getting old but it’s still in good condition, you can boost its energy efficiency through the addition of a storm door. This is essentially a second door installed over the first one featuring an aluminum, fiberglass or steel frame and glass panels. High-quality storm doors can also come with screens with sliding or even removable glass panels for better ventilation without inviting bugs in.

Professional Exterior Door Installation

In the end, it doesn’t matter how energy-efficient a door is; it’s the installation that really makes the difference. Unless your new door has been installed correctly, it won’t perform as it was designed to. That’s why proper installation makes all the difference, ensuring your door will fit snugly in its frame with no chance for air leakage around corners or edges.

Contact Dallas Door Designs

Dallas Door Designs offers a variety of energy-efficient exterior doors for you to choose from. To learn more about our selection and our process, contact us at 214-973-0373 in Dallas.

Most homeowners pay very little attention to how their front doors look, and even less to the state of their doors. But not you – you’re different! You care about the condition of your front and back doors, and are here to get a few tips on cleaning them, right? If you’re starting to notice the chips in the frame paint, the cobwebs skulking in the corner or the dirty kick plate at the bottom, then surely your guests already have.

It’s time you invested in some much-needed summer time cleaningfor your front and back doors! Check out these tips.

Gather Supplies and Make a Plan

Collect the basics, such as:

• Paper towels
• Microfiber cloth
• Glass cleaner
• All-purpose cleaner

Scrawl out a plan on paper for which door you’ll start with and how you will proceed. Set the timer on your phone so you can devote a set period of time to each door. That could be 10 minutes or 30 minutes – that will depend on your individual work style.

Start With Entryway Doors

Doors that face the street and that welcome guests need more TLC, for obvious reasons. But before you tackle the cleaning, stand outside on the lawn facing your door. Then move closer, giving your entry way a discriminating eye so you know what has to be done to restore its luster. What’s the first impression of your own front door? Could it use small repairs? Is it really dirty? Now, you can get to work.  

Use a broom to sweep dust, debris and leaves off the front porch. Don’t forget to wipe cobwebs from porch railings and corners, also removing birds’ nests and bee hives if need be. Use a wet rag to wipe any dirt you see. Next, spritz glass cleaner on all glass panes, rubbing gently in a circular motion.

This is where microfiber cloths work best, because they don’t leave behind streaks or dust clumps. It’s actually better to wash door windows on cloudy days so the cleaning agent doesn’t dry too fast, which tends to leave streaks.

If the paint looks like it’s in need of a touch-up, this is the time to do it. For a nice touch, add seasonal flowers to the porch or hang a wreath or other decorative element on the front door.

Now Do the Back Doors

The back doors don’t require as much attention when it comes to beautification, but they will definitely benefit from a good cleaning. If you’re doing this late in the summer/fall season, take this time to switch out the screens for storm doors.

Got sliding doors that lead to a patio? Inspect the tracks, particularly if they have been giving you a hard time with sticking. Loosen up all debris with a scrub brush, then use a portable shop vac to vacuum up the rest, says Better Homes and Gardens. Wipe down using a sponge, then test the slider so you know it’s working smoothly.

Contact Dallas Door Designs

Do your doors need a whole lot more than just some simple spring cleaning? Choose Dallas Door Designs for brand new ones you can be proud of. Please contact us at 214-973-0373.

Historically, black, white and beige have always been the most popular front door colors for homeowners. That’s because they go with any style of home and match any other complementary color very well, making them a safe, classic choice for people welcoming guests to their front door.

However, sometimes you just want to stand out and be a bit different. There’s no better way to show your unique personality than with a bold front door. Check out these 10 most popular colors for front doors in 2020.

1.    Turquoise

Turquoise is very popular with cottages and progressive ranches, but it can be used for any style of home no matter where it’s located. Add blue-green touches to your exterior, with a muted effect being achieved with a glaze, according to the DIY Network.

In the same color family is a bold blue, yet another option if you’re looking for that signature style that harnesses the power of the ocean. An electric blue is best for stately brick façades, which can give a modern spin on a traditional look.

2.    Lime

Great for contemporary homes, lime gives a pretty touch to your front door, says HGTV. You can complement it with a wide side light window to result in a cool contemporary design.

3.    Brick Red

Bright red doors are nothing new, but they’re experiencing a resurgence in popularity this year. Got a brick front or stucco façade? A deep red will bring out the dark, rich tones of your exterior for an exceptional entryway.

4.    Indigo

Victorian homes would make a perfect pairing for indigo, especially when offset by brass hardware and copper trim. Making this outstanding choice will draw the eye to the front door area, making it an attractive focal point.

5.    Bright Yellow

Sunshine and happiness: that’s what abright yellow door says. And who doesn’t want that? There’s no way to be in a bad mood when you get a nice welcome from a sunny shade of yellow. To offset this bright choice, though, use accessories and exterior paint colors in gray, slate or charcoal.

6.    Orange

Best suited to a contemporary home complemented by a cool gray exterior, bright orange is vibrant and energizing, bringing an unmatched exuberance to your curb appeal.

7.    Mint

Why not add a sweet confectionary appearance to your front door? Reach for the mint, as a pale Jordan-almond hue will show off your love of pastels.

8.    Grape

Using a non-traditional color triggers an emotional response from homeowners and guests. Why not make your home more approachable by adding a whimsical touch of light grape to the front door?

9.    Coral

Pink is making a comeback, especially when coupled with an olive green or pale cream brick.

10. Moss Green

Pair this beautiful color with another tone of green siding, which will help bring out the rich undertones of this exceptional color family.

Contact Dallas Door Designs

We invite you to browse our site to see the unique door colors and styles our designers can create for you. To learn more or to book a consultation, contact us at 214-973-0373.

Looking for added security for your home, as well as a unique touch to your overall décor? You may consider adding custom iron doors to the front of your home. They’re great for peace of mind because they are the most secure doors you can buy. Usually when you think of having a secure house, you automatically think of your alarm system, or cameras, CCTV or at the very least, locks on all windows and doors.

But you should also think of security in the form of your front door itself. Do you have a flimsy, cheap front door that could easily get kicked in during a burglary? The right door is just as important as having a fancy security system.

Here are some tips to choosing the perfect iron door that flawlessly complements your home.

1.    Know its Functionality

While there are several types of iron doors on the market today, they’re not all created equal. Some are decorative and ornate than others, while others are quite plain. You have double doors and single doors, etc. But no matter what type you settle on, make sure you know how it functions. Make sure you’re getting a solid material that addstexture, strength, sustainability and security to your home.

Iron doors are durable entry way additions in their own right, but they also must feature top of the line locks to guarantee the highest level of security. But contrary to popular belief, the handle or keyed knob you choose isn’t as important as the deadbolt you ultimately go with. Choose wisely, as this deadbolt is harder to manipulate and break into than a spring-loaded latch. In fact, there’s no way to move the bolt without a rotation of the lock core.

2.    Keep Curb Appeal in Mind

Iron doors present a grand entrance, a first impression you just can’t get with other materials. Choose an iron door that is aesthetically pleasing but that also complements your home’s style. Such doors accentuate the portal to your home, but make sure you don’t overpower that entry with something too grand for the space. Many people think of dark, medieval images when calling to mind wrought iron doors, but believe it or not, today’s iron doors can be just as beautiful and modern as less imposing materials.

3.    Make Sure it’s Energy Efficient

Iron doors are usually foam insulated, which means they prevent extreme temperatures from infiltrating your home or damaging the door itself. The result? Cooler temps in your home in the summer and warmer temperatures in winter time, saving you money on energy bills as well.

4.    Make Sure it’s Damage Resistant

Iron doors are tough enough to stand up to all kinds of threats, especially extreme weather and corrosion. This is a big advantage over wooden doors, which aren’t as sturdy, and are more likely to succumb to the ravages of the weather and insects.

Contact Dallas Door Designs

Book a consultation with Dallas Door Designs to learn more about our custom wrought iron doors that can complement any home. Get a free estimate when you contact us at 214-973-0373.

As the weather gets warmer, there is nothing quite like feeling fresh air breeze through your home, or seeing sunlight streaming in. But you can’t just open up your front door. You’d let bugs and other elements into your home. If you have a patio door with a screen, though, you have the option of getting fresh air whenever you want it, risk free.

 If you’ve been meaning to install new patio doors, summer is the best time to do it.

Benefits of New Patio Doors

Many homeowners love patio doors because they provide a feeling of openness within the home via the addition of natural light and unlimited views to the outdoors. While patio doors can certainly be enjoyed year round, summer really gives you the chance to benefit from them.

They’re available in a variety of materials and designs to suit your budget, space and needs. Your patio door can include the best of both worlds: glass for a bit more insulation and security, and screens for a fresh breeze while inside your home, while at the same time keeping bugs and other pests out. Plus, patio doors give you access to your outdoor space, usually a backyard. You can reinforce them for extra security and you can lock them so you can view who is outside before opening up the door.  

What are the Right Patio Doors for You?

Summer’s the best time to replace your patio doors, preferably early on in the season so you can get the most out of them. If you plan it right, you can enjoy your new patio doors with screens for the next five months or so. There are many types of patio doors, including:

• Rolling screen patio doors
• Double swinging doors
• Swinging patio doors
• Sliding patio doors

Here at Dallas Door Designs, we specialize in sliding doors. We prefer these because they don’t require swing room, which means they’re perfect for tight spaces or when you have furniture placed nearby. These doors are beautifully designed for smooth operation, drawing the eye outdoors and highlighting your patio, deck or yard. Standard sliding doors glide along horizontal tracks at the sill and head, and can be crafted to accommodate either right-hand or left-hand operation.

New sliding patio doors are:

• Energy efficient
• Visually appealing
• Functional
• Safe
• Easily accessible

So, what are you waiting for? Summer is the perfect time to book a patio door installation!

Contact Dallas Door Designs

Here at Dallas Door Designs, we have vast experience creating and installing all types of patio doors. Contact us today at 214-973-0373 for a free estimate or to get more information.

With spring upon us, it’s natural to want to get outdoors, take a look around, and consider ways in which you can improve your property. Landscaping, planting, and painting all probably top your list, but when looking to improve your home this spring, don’t forget to replace your doors if they’re old, out of style or dysfunctional. 

Here are some ideas for sprucing up your home with new doors this spring.

Which Material to Choose

When replacing your front entry door, one of your first choices will be about composition. You have many choices. For a natural, classic look, consider solid wood or solid engineered wood core. Either one offers incredible durability and insulation, reducing the amount of outside noise that enters your home.

The type of wood you go with will bring a variety of different looks for your home. Bamboo, for instance, has a sleek and modern appearance and happens to be a sustainable, eco-friendly option. Oak on the other hand, has a tougher,traditional look, while cedar and knotty pine bring the most rustic look possible. There’s a wood out there for every style!

Iron is another good choice, known for its security, strength and strong personality. Some models are more ornate than others, and you can choose between double or single. Some feature intricate designs, while others are plain. Due to their solid texture and sustainability, iron doors add abundant security to any home.

No matter what material of door you choose, it can be custom made to fit all openings and can be trimmed to fit a specific size doorway. You may even opt to insert windows, glass or other decorative accents.

Styles

Now that you have considered material, it’s time to consider which style to go with. This will depend largely on the style of your overall home and property.

A glass front entry is a nice choice for larger homes thanks to their sleek contemporary looks. You may even want to incorporate a sandblast etched glass design to give you plenty of natural light yet some much-needed privacy as well.

Or perhaps a double black front door with bars is more your speed. For example, black stripes offset by long bar pulls give your home a regal look. If you have a large home, you can’t go wrong installing a double entry door to make a bold, elegant statement.

For a modern accent that prioritizes natural light, try a grid of glass panes best for ultra-modern homes, reminiscent of a bank vault. As such, it offers heightened security, durability, and strength.

Another great option is double wood doors with a transom. Giving a more muted tone, such a door brings in plenty of natural light but you still get the grand sweeping entrance you have been craving.

Contact Dallas Door Designs

If you’re looking to replace your front door but aren’t sure which style or material to choose, contact us for a free estimate and consultation in Dallas at 214-973-0373 or email us at sales@dallasdoordesigns.com.

You may only think about your budget when considering replacement windows, heading off to the nearest big box store to kick off your home improvement project. This is not always the best idea, for many reasons. First, the benefits that usually come with cheap windows, such as convenience or affordability, are often exaggerated and untrue. But if you really take a look at the issue, you’ll see that made-to-order products make much more sense for homeowners.

Check out these reasons why custom sized windows trump off the shelf ones.

1.    Customized Appearance

With the right designer behind you, it’s simple to design made-to-order windows exactly as you want them, as opposed to stock products that can be limited in color, shape, size, and other details.

2.    Long-Term Cost-Effectiveness

You may be drawn in by the low price of cookie cutter windows at the big box store. Yes, it looks good for your budget in the short term. But you have to look ahead over the long term, when those windows will likely fail. Then, you’ll have to buy new ones much sooner than you wanted to instead of just buying good quality custom ones in the first place.

And unlike units you pick up at the store, the prices of made-to-order windows vary by the features you want to include. Translation: it’s much easier to plan your budget because you have a higher degree of control over the outcome.

3.    Reduced Incidence of Air Leaks

Custom windows are measured and cut according to the exact parameters of your existing window openings, which in turn reduces the chance of leakage. When you purchase undersized stock products, by comparison, extra sealant is necessary in order to cut back on air infiltration. Also, sealants will break down more quickly than the actual window will.

4.    Building Code Adherence

Proper window sizing, along with the latest glass technology, are crucial in making sure your home is up to code. It makes sense: the more freedom you have in designing your custom windows, the better you can meet stringent building requirements.

5.    Personalized Service

Stock windows are mass-produced in big batches, sold by salespeople who are not trained in how windows are made or how they should be designed/installed. Do you really want someone with no training to sell you a product that will be a part of your home for decades to come? With made-to-order windows, skilled trade professionals design, make and install them, so you get peace of mind with personalized knowledge and attention to detail.

6.    Rapid Installation

Made-to-order windows do not have to be resized in order to fit existing openings, which means the installation takes less time. A 12-hour installation job could take several days to finish with stock products as opposed to a customized window job.

Contact Dallas Door Designs

To learn why our custom sized windows beat off the shelf windows, contact us today for a free estimate and design consultation.

Often, all it takes is a new patio door to breathe life into your outdoor space, bringing the outdoors in. If you like to entertain in the backyard, have a pool or just like the view from your porch, a patio door can augment and enhance your home in many ways. Your exterior should reflect your unique style.

But it’s important not to rush into a patio door decision. Do your research, contemplate your budget, and make sure the one you choose gels with your home’s style. Here are the three steps to choosing a new patio door.

Step 1: Determine Your Budget

According to Home Advisor, the average homeowner spends between $500 and $1400 to install a door. But each door and installation job will be different, depending on the size and type of door, the demolition that may need to occur to accommodate it, and the complexity of the installation.

Talk with your door design professionals to go over your options. Keep in mind, Dallas Door Designs can design your sliding patio door to be either for right-hand or left-hand operation.

Step 2: Choose the Best Style for Your Home

There are many different styles of patio doors. It’s up to you to weigh the pros and cons of each in accordance with your space constraints and style.

• Sliding Patio Doors: Ideal in rooms where you don’t have a lot space, their sliding functionality means they don’t take up extra space when they are opened. And with multiple glass panels, you get an expanded view of the outdoors as well as an ample amount of natural light that brightens up the interior.
• Hinged or French Patio Doors: The difference between the two (sliding vs. hinged) lies in how they operate. Hinged patio doors are hinged on either side of the door, opening outward or inward. French patio doors in particular often feature multiple small panes of glass for an elegant look. Choose this option if you have extra room in your living area to open the doors. French doors are best for traditional architectural styles.

Once you’ve settled on the style of door you want, you can start to choose custom styling so you can better blend it into your home’s existing style. Dallas Door Designs gives you several options when it comes to customizing doors to match your home’s interior design, including custom colors, hardware and glass options.

Step 3: Ready to Buy a Patio Door? Find a Professional in Your Area

If it’s time to refresh your patio and add value to your home, seeking out a professional with experience in your area is the next logical step. Dallas Door Designs is a natural choice, as we are a family owned and operated company offering superior durability, a wide range of door styles and designs, dependable customer service, and dedication to high-quality workmanship.

Contact Dallas Door Designs today to learn more about our sliding patio doors and to get a free estimate.