A good-looking front door is the make-or-break factor when it comes to first impressions of your home.
Cobus Lourens from leading window and door supplier, Swartland, says: “Your front door speaks volumes about the rest of the home that lies beyond – so it is important to select one that compliments your home’s architectural and interior style. However, your choice should not only be about aesthetics, but functionality needs to be considered as well.”
In this light, Cobus notes that aluminium front doors, such as those from Swartland’s KENZO range of aluminium doors and windows, for example, are a great option: “Aluminium front doors come in various good looking styles that are designed to complement both contemporary and traditional homes. They also boast a whole host of other benefits that make them a very practical option as well.” He provides a list of the main benefits of choosing an aluminium front door for your home:
Strength: “Aluminium is a composite material and is really strong, yet lightweight. As such, aluminium front doors can feature larger glazing elements in order to let in maximum light, while not compromising on the strength of the door itself. Since they are lightweight and strong, aluminium front doors are tougher and more robust than any other kind of door – providing greater security and protection,” explains Cobus.
Style: While many people tend to think that aluminium front doors err on the side of contemporary styling, Cobus notes that they are available in a diverse range of styles: “Front doors in the KENZO range, for example, are available in a variety of styles that complement both modern and traditional architectural design, and can be used in a wide range of applications, including as front doors, balcony doors, office doors and even internal doors.” He says for extra customisation, you can further complement your aluminium front door with toplights (glass panels at the top of the door), and sidelights (glass panels to the side of the door) to let in additional light and make your front door a real feature.
Durability: Aluminium front doors are incredibly durable, says Cobus: “Aluminium doesn’t experience any form of contraction or expansion, so they don’t warp or crack, whatever the climate. Aluminium is also naturally resistant to corrosion, which makes them an especially good option for coastal areas. The fact of the matter is that they will last for a very long time, and maintain their good looks all the way through!”
Ease of maintenance: Minimum maintenance is required to maintain any aluminium windows or doors – saving you time and money. Cobus elaborates: “Aluminium front doors come with a durable and aesthetically-pleasing powder-coated finish. The KENZO range, for example, is available in a choice of Silver, Bronze, Charcoal or White powder-coated finish that doesn’t fade or discolour when exposed to the elements. To maintain this finish, all that needs to be done is for you to wipe down the frame with a damp cloth every now and again. No sanding or sealing required.”
Affordability: Aluminium front doors are a comparatively inexpensive option. This is largely due to the wide availability of the material, and the fact that it is really easy to recycle. Cobus adds that its ease of maintenance also adds to its an affordability over its lifetime, as you won’t need to invest in sandpaper, sealant or labour in order to keep them looking their best.
A green option: Aluminium boasts a very long lifespan, but it is also very easy to recycle, notes Cobus: “Recycling aluminium requires a mere 5% of the energy needed to collect new aluminium – making aluminium front doors a great option for homeowners with environmental concerns.”