Ask the Builder
Entry Door Manufacturers & Care Tips
By Tim Carter
©1993-2008 Tim Carter
Summary: The entry door manufacturers that follow make steel entry doors, wood entry doors and fiberglass entry doors. There are over 100 entry door manufacturers, and plenty of selection. Read the care tips for your entry doors to keep them beautiful and functional longer.
Related Articles: entry door variety, entry doors, installation tips
Manufacturers of Steel, Fiberglass, Composite & Wood Entry Doors
The following is just a partial listing of entry door manufacturers. There are well over 100 that I could have listed! If a door company you are considering is not on the following list do not be discouraged.
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Door Care Tips/Literature
The newer doors often have very specific care instructions. There is not a catch-all program that will work for all doors. Because these doors represent a major investment in most cases, take the time to read the care instructions that come with the door.
This is very important with respect to finishing the doors. Some of the newer doors, such as the fiberglass doors, require very specific stains to achieve the best results. These stains are almost always available from the door manufacturer. If your contractor looks puzzled when you bring this to his/her attention, continue to probe.
The care of the newer steel doors that have vinyl finishes is important. The method of cleaning the door is important, as you might harm the vinyl if not careful. Once again, the doors come with specific care instructions, be sure to save this literature and read it.
After deciding upon which door you will choose, ask the supplier for specific care and installation instructions at that time. Read these things before talking to contractors. When interviewing contractors, ask questions to see how familiar they are with that particular door. See if they intend to do some (all) of the things that are required by the manufacturer. If you take the time to do this simple thing, I know you will rapidly find out who not to hire for your door job. I wish you good luck on your entry door project!
