1. The new trend in entry doors, more options - more wood species; finishes; styles and more sizes than available previously. Oak has been commonly used for many years as entry doors, but now other wood species such as walnut, cherry, alder, maple, mahogany, pine, fir, and hemlock are available. Each wood specie accepts stain differently, and stain colors vary from white wash to deep golden to a dark sepia brown. Door shapes are now available in a variety of options; segment top, gothic, radius and arched. Panels are offered as flat or plank, as opposed to the traditional raised panel design. Previously the standard entry door was 3'0" x 6'8", but now larger sizes, 3'5" x 8'0" for example, are no longer a custom item.

2. It is an advantage when the entry system components fit precisely together and match in species and color. The pre-assembled system allows for ease of installation. The sidelights and transom are manufactured at the same time as the doors, built of the same wood species allowing for consistency in staining. The recent offering of adjustable hinges makes door installations even easier.

3. In compression glazing the glass becomes an integral part of the door. Since the glass is pressed into groves cut in the stiles and rails, with all edges of the glass coated with glazing compound, it becomes a very weather-tight seal, a much better seal than traditional glazing. The chances of a seal failure are greatly reduced. Exact miter joints and bookmatched veneer MDX core panels improve the performance of the door as well.

4. Steel doors are a good choice when durability and price are considerations. Fusion-crafted wood composite exterior doors bridge the price and performance gap between steel and wood doors. Both steel and fusion-crafted composite wood have an insulating core, but composite doors offer better insulative value than steel. Steel and fusion-crafted wood composite doors hold up to direct sunlight (ultraviolet light) and weather better than exposed wood doors, so they are the products of choice when exposure is an issue.

5. Wood entry doors have the advantage when the criteria are beauty and versatility. As an insulator, wood is 400 times more effective than steel. Wood resists the penetration of cold outside air and provides a warm feel regardless of the outside temperature. Custom designs can be created in any species, stained or painted to match any décor, and numerous decorative glass and hardware options are available.

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