Your front door is more than just an entryway; it’s a critical component of your home’s security, energy efficiency, and curb appeal. Given the unique challenges of the West Texas climate—from high winds and dust storms to intense summer heat and cold winter snaps—choosing the right material and style is essential for Lubbock homeowners.
At Reid It Right Construction, we specialize in selecting and installing high-quality doors that are built to last and perform efficiently. Here’s your guide to choosing the perfect door for your home.
1. The Importance of Material: Performance in West Texas
The material of your door dictates its durability, energy efficiency, and maintenance requirements.
| Door Material | Pros for Lubbock | Cons | Best Use |
| Fiberglass | Excellent Energy Efficiency (superior insulation to wood). Highly Durable; resists warping, cracking, and denting—ideal for extreme temperature swings. Low maintenance. | Higher initial cost than steel or basic wood. | Best All-Around Choice for energy savings and longevity in harsh climates. |
| Steel | Superior Security and strength. Good energy efficiency (when insulated). More affordable than fiberglass. | Prone to denting. Can rust if the protective coating is compromised. Conducts heat and cold more than fiberglass (leading to more heat transfer). | Best for Security and maximum durability against break-ins. |
| Wood | Unmatched Aesthetic Appeal and versatility (classic look). | High Maintenance (requires regular painting/sealing). Prone to warping, swelling, and cracking due to moisture and extreme temperature changes (a common risk in Texas). Lower energy efficiency unless using an insulated core. | Best for Historical or Custom Homes where aesthetics are the top priority. |
For most Lubbock homes, a high-quality fiberglass door offers the best balance of energy efficiency, weather resistance, and low maintenance.
2. Focus on Energy Efficiency and Installation
In a region with high cooling and heating demands, the door’s energy performance is key to lowering your utility bills.
- Insulation: Look for doors with an excellent R-Value (a measure of resistance to heat flow). Fiberglass and insulated steel doors generally offer the highest R-values.
- Weatherstripping and Sealing: Even the best door will fail if air leaks around the frame. Ensure the door comes with high-quality, durable weatherstripping and that the professional installation includes meticulous sealing and caulking around the frame to prevent drafts, moisture, and dust infiltration.
- Glass Options: If your door includes glass (sidelights or a central pane), choose Low-E (low-emissivity) glass and double- or triple-pane construction. This dramatically reduces heat transfer in the summer and prevents heat loss in the winter without sacrificing natural light.
3. Security and Aesthetics
Security
Lubbock homeowners prioritize security. Look for the following features:
- Lockset Reinforcement: Ensure the door frame and internal structure are reinforced where the deadbolt and lockset attach.
- Strong Core: Steel and solid-core fiberglass doors offer excellent resistance against forced entry.
- Hinges: Hinges should be durable and located on the interior side of the door.
Aesthetics
The style you choose should complement your home’s architecture, enhancing its curb appeal and value.
- Traditional Homes (Brick or Ranch): Often look best with classic panel designs, sometimes featuring simple, elegant glass in the upper section.
- Modern or Contemporary Homes: May benefit from sleek, flush designs or doors with long, vertical glass panes and minimalist hardware.
At Reid It Right Construction, we are certified installers for industry leaders like Marvin and Pella. We provide expert guidance on selecting a door that meets your aesthetic goals while delivering the security and energy efficiency required for life in West Texas. Contact us today for a consultation!