If you're looking for a way to upgrade your exterior without any major renovations, look no further than your front door.
Your front door is the focal point of your home's exterior and are a great way to project personal style to visitors while boosting curb appeal (and enhancing your home's value). And that little boost can really matter — according to A Pop of Pretty, dated-looking doors are a real turnoff for potential home buyers, and suggest that a home's interior be on the shabby side, too.
An old front door might also literally cost you extra money every month through higher utility bills. If you can see light around the door when it's closed, have difficulty opening or closing it, can see visible weathering and warping, or constantly need to stop drafts with rolled-up towels, then upgrades or an entirely new door might be necessary.
If you're on a budget and your door is otherwise in good working order, then an update might be as simple as a fresh coat of paint and shiny new hardware.
But if your door doesn't match the rest of the house, consistently lets drafts into your house, or has seen much better days, then it might be time for a new front door. Some things to consider:
* Choose a material that can withstand the climate and weather in your area. A solid wood door simply won't hold up to cold and rain as well as a fiberglass or metal door, for example.
* Hire a professional to install the door. A new door is an investment into your home's value and overall function, so leave it to a reputable professional if possible.
* Choose a door that complements your home's exterior. Don't pick a door that competes with other architectural features or doesn't fit in with the overall feel. An understated door that won't look dated in a few years is your best bet.
