When it comes to selecting wood for front doors, homeowners have a plethora of options to choose from. The entrance doors are the first impression visitors get of a home, and the type of wood used can make a significant impact on the overall aesthetic appeal and durability of the door.
In this article, we will discuss the best wood species for front doors, both single front doors and double entrance doors.
Mahogany Entrance Doors
Mahogany is considered one of the most popular wood species for front doors. This type of wood is known for its durability, resistance to rot and insects, and deep, rich color. It is also a straight-grained wood, which makes it easy to work with, and it has excellent stability, which helps it resist warping and shrinking. Mahogany is a perfect choice for modern single-front doors because of its beauty and longevity.
Teak Front Doors
Teak is another great wood for front doors. It is a dense, oily wood that is naturally resistant to decay and insects, making it ideal for use in exterior doors. Teak is also known for its beautiful golden-brown color that can add warmth and character to any home’s entrance. It is a perfect option for homeowners who are looking for double entrance doors, as it is incredibly durable and can withstand heavy use.
Oak Entrance Doors
Oak is a classic wood species that has been used in furniture and construction for centuries. It is a hard and durable wood that can withstand heavy use and is resistant to decay and insects. Oak has a beautiful grain pattern that adds character to any door, and it comes in two varieties: red and white. White oak is a better option for exterior doors as it is more resistant to moisture, making it an ideal choice for traditional single-entrance doors.
Cherry Entry Doors
Cherry is a beautiful wood species that is often used in furniture and cabinetry. It is a straight-grained wood that is easy to work with and has a beautiful reddish-brown color that darkens over time. Cherry is also a durable wood that is resistant to decay and insects. It is an excellent choice for single front doors as it can add elegance and sophistication to any home’s entrance.
Walnut Front Doors
Walnut is a beautiful and unique wood species that is often used in high-end front doors It has a rich, dark color that can add depth and warmth to any home’s entrance. Walnut is a durable wood that is resistant to decay and insects, making it an excellent choice for exterior doors. It is an ideal option for homeowners who are looking for double entrance doors as it is a highly durable and stable wood.
Cedar Entrance Doors
Cedar is a softwood species that is commonly used for exterior construction, such as decks and fences. It is a beautiful wood species that has a warm, reddish-brown color and a distinct aroma. Cedar is naturally resistant to decay, insects, and rot, making it an excellent choice for front doors. It is also a lightweight wood species, which makes it easy to work with and install.
Redwood Entry Doors
Redwood is another softwood species that is commonly used for exterior construction, including decking, siding, and front doors. It has a beautiful red tone and a straight grain pattern that adds character and warmth to any entrance. Redwood is naturally resistant to rot and insects, making it a durable and long-lasting option for front doors.
Maple Exterior Doors
Maple is also a perfect wood for front doors. Maple is a hardwood popular for its strength and durability. It has a light, creamy color and a fine, straight-grain pattern that creates a clean and modern look. Maple is also a stable wood species that resist warping and shrinkage, making it an ideal choice for modern double doors. It does require regular maintenance to preserve its beauty and durability.
Sapele Front Doors
Sapele is a hardwood species that is often used in high-end furniture and cabinetry. It has a rich, reddish-brown color and a unique, ribbon-like grain pattern that adds elegance and sophistication to any entrance. Sapele is also a durable wood species that resist decay and insects, making it a great option for front doors. It is a less common wood species, which may make it more expensive and harder to find.
Ipe Entrance Doors
Ipe is a hardwood species that is commonly used for decking and outdoor furniture. It has a beautiful dark brown color and a dense, tight grain pattern that creates a sleek and modern look. Ipe is naturally resistant to rot, insects, and decay, making it an excellent choice for front doors. It is also a highly durable wood species that can withstand heavy use and harsh weather conditions.
Hickory Entry Doors
Hickory is another hardwood species that can be considered for front doors. It is a strong and durable wood that is known for its hardness, making it resistant to scratches and dents. Hickory has a light to medium brown color and a bold, distinct grain pattern that adds character and texture to any entrance. It is also resistant to rot, decay, and insects, making it an ideal choice for front doors that are exposed to outdoor elements. However, it can be difficult to work with due to its hardness, which may require special tools and techniques during installation. Overall, hickory is a great option for homeowners who value durability and unique aesthetics.
Factors that Homeowners Should Consider When Selecting Wood Species Front Doors
Budget
One of the most important factors that homeowners should consider when selecting the best wood species for their front doors is their budget. Different wood species have different costs, and some can be more expensive than others. Mahogany, for example, is one of the more expensive options, while oak is a more affordable choice. Homeowners should consider their budget and choose a wood species that fits within their financial limitations.
Durability
Another important factor to consider when selecting a wood species for front doors is durability. Front doors are exposed to various weather conditions, such as rain, wind, and sun, and they need to withstand heavy use and potential damage. Homeowners should choose a wood species that is strong and durable enough to withstand these elements and resist rot, insects, and warping.
Aesthetics
The aesthetics of the wood species should also be considered when selecting front doors. The color, grain pattern, and texture of the wood can have a significant impact on the overall appearance and style of the entrance. Mahogany and teak, for example, are known for their warm and rich tones, while oak and walnut are popular for their unique and beautiful grain patterns. Homeowners should choose a wood species that complement the style and architecture of their home and creates a welcoming entrance.
Maintenance
Maintenance is another crucial factor to consider when selecting a wood species for front doors. Some wood species require more maintenance than others, and homeowners should choose a species that they can maintain easily. For instance, teak and mahogany are low maintenance, while cherry and oak require more upkeep. Homeowners should choose a wood species that fits their maintenance routine and lifestyle.
Environmental Impact
Lastly, homeowners should consider the environmental impact of the wood species they choose for their front doors. Some wood species are sustainable and responsibly sourced, while others may contribute to deforestation and environmental degradation. Homeowners should choose a wood species that is sustainably sourced and has a minimal environmental impact.