"Best" Exterior Doors
#1
02-08-16, 05:34 AM
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"Best" Exterior Doors
I am in need of replacing my front door this summer (2'8" with double side lights) due to rot. I don't want to ever have to deal with this again, so I want to get something that has a completely composite frame/trim. I have been looking at Therma Tru from Harvey, but are there others I should be checking out. Also want something that comes factory finished. Not looking for wood/woodgrain, just solid colors.
I am staying away from box stores.
Any experience/insight would be great.
I am staying away from box stores.
Any experience/insight would be great.
#2
02-08-16, 07:38 AM
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ThermaTru makes nice doors in their higher end lines. I really like ProVia. I'm not sure that either is available with 100% composite frame, although often the lower section is composite. The fiberglass doors usually have wood lock and hinge stiles, although the bottom rail is composite. Steel frames are also available.
But aside from the outside trim directly exposed to the weather, if you have a rot problem it's most likely due to improper installation and flashing allowing water in. Get those details right and it won't be a problem.
But aside from the outside trim directly exposed to the weather, if you have a rot problem it's most likely due to improper installation and flashing allowing water in. Get those details right and it won't be a problem.
#3
02-08-16, 10:51 AM
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So the "Smooth Star" (fiberglass door) is available with wood, vinyl clad wood, or woodgrain composite.
I am not too worried about the stiles, as I am not having issues with those. What is rotting is the lower portion of the frame and 5/4x4 molding.
I just searched ProVia's site a bit and they don't say what the frame options are for their doors, however, what they do show looks similar to Therma Tru. Only downfall for them is there are no dealers within like 1 1/2hrs from me.
I am not too worried about the stiles, as I am not having issues with those. What is rotting is the lower portion of the frame and 5/4x4 molding.
I just searched ProVia's site a bit and they don't say what the frame options are for their doors, however, what they do show looks similar to Therma Tru. Only downfall for them is there are no dealers within like 1 1/2hrs from me.
#4
02-08-16, 11:24 AM
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I certainly wouldn't drive an extra hour and a half to buy ProVia over ThermaTru. I thought the smooth star doors had to be painted, are they available pre-finished?
#5
02-08-16, 12:03 PM
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Through the vendor they are available pre-finished. You are right, from the manufacturer no. Harvey is the one that paints it.
