Best Exterior Door Brands

Choosing the right exterior door is crucial as it impacts security, curb appeal, and energy efficiency.

A sturdy door provides safety from intruders, enhances your home’s first impression, and plays a key role in keeping your home energy-efficient by reducing heat loss or gain.

A well-chosen door helps maintain comfort while lowering energy costs.

Selecting a reliable brand ensures you’re investing in quality, durability, and performance.

Trusted brands are known for their commitment to superior craftsmanship, advanced technology, and customer satisfaction.

A reputable brand offers peace of mind, knowing your door will withstand the elements and provide lasting protection for your home.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing an Exterior Door

Choosing the right exterior door involves more than just picking a color or style.

It’s important to consider various factors that will impact your home’s curb appeal, energy efficiency, and security.

Here are the key factors to think about when making your decision:

Material Options

When selecting an exterior door, you’ll find a variety of materials, each offering unique benefits.

Wood doors provide a timeless look but require maintenance.

Fiberglass doors are energy-efficient, low-maintenance, and offer good insulation.

Steel doors are known for strength, security, and energy efficiency.

Composite doors combine the best features of wood and fiberglass, offering durability and aesthetic appeal.

Aluminum doors are lightweight, durable, and resistant to weathering, making them a great option for those prioritizing low maintenance and modern design.

Energy Efficiency

Another crucial consideration is energy efficiency, as your door’s material and design directly impact your home’s comfort and your energy costs.

For example, fiberglass and composite doors are known for their excellent insulating properties, keeping your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter.

On the other hand, steel and aluminum doors often come with energy-efficient cores and weatherstripping, helping to minimize heat loss.

Design & Customization

Your door should not only perform well but also complement your home’s aesthetic.

Whether you’re going for a traditional or modern look, there’s a material and style for every taste.

Wood doors are highly customizable, offering a range of finishes and detailing options.

Likewise, fiberglass, steel, and aluminum doors can also be tailored with different colors, glass inserts, and hardware to match your personal style and the overall design of your home.

Security Features

Security is always a priority when selecting an exterior door.

Fortunately, most exterior doors come equipped with features designed to enhance protection.

Many options, such as steel and aluminum doors, are known for their strength and resistance to forced entry.

Additionally, features like reinforced frames, multi-point locking systems, and impact-resistant glass are becoming standard for added peace of mind.

Cost Considerations

Price is often one of the most important factors in the decision-making process.

Wood doors may have a higher initial cost due to the craftsmanship involved, but their timeless appeal can be worth the investment.

Fiberglass and composite doors offer a great balance of affordability and performance.

While steel and aluminum doors may come with a higher price tag, they offer exceptional security and energy efficiency, ensuring you get great long-term value.

Most Trusted Exterior Door Brands of 2024

When it comes to selecting an exterior door for your home, brand trust is essential.

You want a door that offers durability, energy efficiency, and security, backed by a trusted brand that has a reputation for quality.

After all, your exterior door is more than just a way to enter your home; it serves as an important statement of style, an additional layer of security, and a key player in your home’s energy efficiency.

According to the America’s Most Trusted® Study, homeowners prioritize brands that consistently deliver on quality, performance, and customer satisfaction.

In 2024, the following top 10 most trusted exterior door brands are leading the industry due to their innovative designs, durable materials, and excellent customer feedback.

1. Pella

Brand Overview:

Pella has been a recognized name in the door and window industry since 1925.

Known for its high-quality craftsmanship and innovative designs, Pella continues to be one of the most trusted door brands in America.

With a focus on energy efficiency and durability, Pella provides homeowners with a variety of choices for both aesthetics and performance.

Materials & Design Options

Pella offers fiberglass, steel, and Vinyl doors, providing a wide range of options to suit different home styles.

Whether you’re looking for a classic wooden door or a modern fiberglass model, Pella has a door to match your needs.

Why Homeowners Trust Pella

Homeowners trust Pella for its durability, energy efficiency, and commitment to customer satisfaction.

Pella’s doors are built to withstand the elements while improving energy efficiency and reducing heating and cooling costs.

Cost

Pella doors are generally priced in the mid-to-high range, starting around $300–$800 depending on materials and customizations.

While the investment is higher, the long-term savings in energy costs make it a worthwhile option.

2. Stanley

Brand Overview:

Stanley is a well-established brand that has earned its reputation through quality and reliability.

Known for producing durable products, Stanley doors offer security, performance, and functionality without breaking the bank.

Materials & Design Options:

Stanley Access offers a wide range of materials and design options for their automatic doors, tailored to various commercial applications.

Their doors are made from durable materials like aluminum, glass, stainless steel, and polycarbonate, ensuring longevity and performance.

With customizable features such as energy-efficient designs, touchless activation, and impact-resistant options, Stanley’s doors are suitable for diverse environments, including retail, healthcare, and transportation.

Clients can also select from a variety of frame finishes, glass types, and configurations, ensuring both functionality and aesthetic appeal in every space.

Why Homeowners Trust Stanley

Homeowners trust Stanley Access Technologies for its 90+ years of innovation, offering reliable, high-quality automatic doors.

With energy-efficient designs, touchless activation, and durable materials, Stanley provides both functionality and style.

Excellent customer service, quick installation, and dependable maintenance further solidify their reputation as a trusted choice for homeowners.

Cost

Stanley offers affordable options, with doors starting around $200–$600.

For homeowners looking for reliable performance at an affordable price, Stanley is a solid choice.

3. Therma-Tru

Brand Overview

Therma-Tru, founded in 1962, is known for its energy-efficient exterior doors and cutting-edge materials.

Their commitment to innovation has earned them the trust of homeowners who value energy savings and style.

Materials & Design Options

Why Homeowners Trust Therma-Tru

Therma-Tru is trusted for its energy-saving features, durability, and aesthetic appeal.

Their doors are built to withstand harsh weather while providing excellent insulation.

Cost

Therma-Tru’s doors are priced in the mid-to-high range, typically starting from $400–$700.

While on the pricier side, their energy efficiency and performance make them a great investment for long-term savings.

4. Masonite

Brand Overview

Masonite offers high-quality exterior doors at affordable prices, making them a popular choice for homeowners looking for value without sacrificing craftsmanship.

Their doors come in fiberglass and wood options, and they are customizable for various styles.

Materials & Design Options

Masonite offers a wide range of materials and design options for both interior and exterior doors, blending aesthetics with functionality.

Their doors are designed to enhance a home’s comfort, security, and style.

Masonite features doors that offer sound-dampening properties, energy efficiency, and increased natural light, ensuring they meet diverse needs.

Additionally, the doors come in a variety of materials, including solid core, wood, and fiberglass, with customizable finishes and glass options.

Whether it’s for enhanced safety, style, or technological integration, Masonite ensures every door is built to last and elevate the home’s design.

Why Homeowners Trust Masonite

Masonite is trusted for its affordable craftsmanship, reliable performance, and customization options.

Their doors are easy to maintain, and the brand offers solid warranties to ensure customer satisfaction.

Cost

Masonite offers doors in the budget-friendly range, with prices typically starting around $150–$500.

They offer excellent value for the price, making them ideal for homeowners who want a quality door without a premium cost.

5. JELD-WEN

Brand Overview:

JELD-WEN is a top choice for homeowners who value sustainability and modern design.

Since 1960, JELD-WEN has been known for creating doors that combine aesthetic appeal with energy efficiency and environmentally friendly materials.

Materials & Design Options:

JELD-WEN provides a variety of materials and design options to meet the needs of homeowners and builders.

Their doors are available in multiple materials including fiberglass, steel, and wood, ensuring durability, energy efficiency, and aesthetic appeal.

Customizable features like various finishes, glass options, and hardware allow homeowners to tailor doors to their specific style and functional requirements.

From traditional to modern designs, JELD-WEN offers a broad selection, including innovative collections like the MODA® and Karona™ series, ensuring that every home can benefit from a perfect combination of style, security, and performance.

Why Homeowners Trust JELD-WEN

Homeowners trust JELD-WEN for their eco-friendly practices, beautiful designs, and energy-efficient products.

The brand’s doors are durable and designed to last, offering long-term value.

Cost

JELD-WEN doors typically fall in the mid-range pricing category, between $250–$700.

This makes them a solid choice for homeowners seeking a balance of quality and value.

6. Rogue Valley Door

Brand Overview

Rogue Valley Door specializes in handcrafted wood doors, offering a unique blend of traditional craftsmanship and innovative design.

Their focus on quality materials and attention to detail makes them a standout for homeowners seeking elegance and durability.

Materials & Design Options

Rogue Valley offers doors made from solid wood with a variety of designs, from rustic to modern.

Each door is carefully crafted to deliver both style and functionality.

Why Homeowners Trust Rogue Valley Door

Rogue Valley Door is trusted for its timeless craftsmanship and durability.

Their doors are built to last, and the brand’s commitment to quality ensures that each door adds a touch of elegance to the home.

Cost

Rogue Valley’s doors fall in the mid-to-high price range, with prices typically starting at $600–$1,200 depending on customization and materials.

7. Simpson Door Company

Brand Overview

Simpson Door Company is known for its custom doors that combine handcrafted elegance with innovative designs.

With over 100 years of experience, Simpson offers doors that stand out for their beauty and craftsmanship.

Materials & Design Options

Rogue Valley Door offers a wide selection of materials and design options for homeowners seeking unique and customizable door solutions.

Their doors are available in various styles, including rustic, urban, decorative, and traditional designs, with options for French doors, panel doors, and Dutch doors.

Rogue Valley specializes in wood and glass combinations, allowing for the customization of features like overhangs, millwork, and sticking profiles.

Additionally, they provide customizable finishes and glass options to suit different architectural needs.

Their interactive door builder tool allows customers to visualize their door selections, ensuring the perfect match for any home design.

Why Homeowners Trust Simpson Door Company

Homeowners trust Simpson for its quality craftsmanship, attention to detail, and the ability to create customized doors that match their home’s unique style.

Cost

Simpson doors are premium priced, typically starting around $800–$1,500, depending on material and custom design.

8. Weather Shield

Brand Overview

Weather Shield offers high-end exterior doors with an emphasis on energy efficiency and long-lasting materials.

Their doors are designed for homeowners who want the best in performance, style, and durability.

Materials & Design Options

Weather Shield offers a broad range of materials and design options for their windows and doors, catering to various styles and functional needs.

Their collections include ultra-modern all-aluminum options, contemporary aluminum-clad wood designs, and high-end traditional models, offering flexibility for both residential and commercial projects.

With multiple color choices (up to 66 options) and custom finishes, homeowners can personalize their doors to match any architectural style.

Whether choosing from their Signature, Premium, or Vue collections, Weather Shield emphasizes energy efficiency, innovation, and seamless design to elevate any space.

Why Homeowners Trust Weather Shield

Weather Shield is known for its high-end materials, superior craftsmanship, and energy-saving features, making them a popular choice for homeowners seeking the ultimate in quality and energy performance.

Cost

Weather Shield’s doors are in the high-end price range, typically starting at $1,000 and up, making them a choice for homeowners seeking premium doors.

9. Milgard

Brand Overview

Milgard is a leading manufacturer of windows and patio doors known for its commitment to quality, energy efficiency, and innovation.

With a strong focus on customer satisfaction, Milgard has become a trusted name in the industry.

They offer a wide range of customizable options for both new construction and replacement projects, ensuring that every home receives the right combination of functionality and aesthetic appeal.

Milgard’s dedication to offering high-performance products backed by excellent customer service makes it a standout choice for homeowners and contractors alike.

Materials & Design Options

Milgard provides a diverse selection of materials and design options to suit various architectural styles and homeowner preferences.

Their window and door products are available in premium materials like vinyl, fiberglass, and aluminum, all designed to provide superior energy efficiency and durability.

Customers can choose from different window styles, including casement, double-hung, sliding, and picture windows, as well as a variety of patio door options.

With a broad selection of colors, finishes, and glass types, Milgard allows for extensive customization, making it easy to match any home’s unique design.

Why Homeowners Trust Milgard:

Homeowners trust Milgard for their high-quality, energy-efficient windows and doors that enhance both comfort and curb appeal.

Known for their long-lasting products, Milgard provides reliable, low-maintenance solutions that help reduce energy costs while improving the overall aesthetic of any home.

With a reputation for excellent customer service and a range of warranty options, Milgard has become a go-to brand for homeowners looking for durable, stylish, and functional window and door systems.

Their commitment to quality and satisfaction ensures that homeowners can rely on Milgard for years to come.

Cost:

Milgard windows and doors are typically priced in the mid-to-high range, with products starting around $300–$800, depending on the material and customization options selected.

Apro

Brand Overview

Apro is a trusted name in the exterior door industry, offering a wide range of high-quality doors designed to meet diverse customer needs.

With years of experience, they are known for their exceptional craftsmanship and dedication to delivering reliable, long-lasting doors.

Materials & Design Options

APRO offers a variety of aluminum doors including folding, sliding, pivot, and hinged styles, each combining durability with modern design.

Customers can customize their doors with various sizes, finishes, colors, and glass types (clear, frosted, tinted, decorative).

Additional options include hardware, sound insulation, and panel designs (solid or glass), ensuring each door meets specific needs for aesthetics, energy efficiency, and functionality.

These doors are suitable for both residential and commercial projects, offering style, security, and minimal maintenance.

Why Homeowners Trust Apro

Homeowners trust Apro for its combination of durability, energy efficiency, and excellent customer service.

With a focus on compliance and quality, Apro ensures every door is built to last, backed by professional installation and support.

Cost

Apro offers competitive pricing for both mid-range and premium doors.

While their products are slightly higher than entry-level options, they provide excellent value due to their long-lasting quality, energy efficiency, and customization options.

Customization Options of Exterior Door

When it comes to choosing the perfect exterior door, customization plays a key role in turning a functional entryway into a stunning focal point of your home.

Personalized doors not only showcase your unique style but also enhance your home’s curb appeal, making it stand out in your neighborhood.

Whether you want a modern look or a more traditional style, customizing your door ensures it perfectly matches your vision.

Why Customization Matters

Personalized exterior doors are more than just a design choice—they offer a chance to reflect your personality and complement your home’s architectural style.

A custom door can create a striking first impression, setting the tone for your home’s interior and increasing its overall appeal.

Plus, customization allows you to select features that enhance security, functionality, and energy efficiency, making your door a practical yet stylish addition to your home.

Leading Brands Offering Customization

Many top exterior door brands offer extensive customization options.

TruStile, Rogue Valley Door, and Simpson are renowned for their high-quality custom doors that provide homeowners with a range of design choices.

These brands understand that each home is unique and offer a variety of materials, designs, and finishes that allow you to tailor your door to fit your exact needs.

Types of Custom Features Available

• Glass Inserts:
  Glass inserts are a popular way to add both beauty and functionality to your exterior door. You can choose from a variety of glass options, including frosted or privacy glass, which ensure that your home remains secure while still allowing light to filter through. Decorative glass patterns like etched, beveled, or leaded glass are also available, adding a touch of elegance to your entryway. There are also energy-efficient glass options that improve insulation and help keep your home comfortable year-round.

• Hardware:
  The hardware you select can significantly influence the overall look of your door. Choose from an array of handles, locks, and hinges that best complement the style of your home. Whether you prefer a sleek, modern handle or a more ornate, vintage-style knob, the right hardware can enhance the door’s aesthetic and functionality. Many brands offer a variety of finishes, including brushed nickel, oil-rubbed bronze, and matte black, so you can match your door hardware with other elements of your home’s exterior.

• Finishes:
  A custom finish is one of the easiest ways to ensure your door matches your home’s color scheme and texture. There are numerous options when it comes to stains, paints, and textures. For instance, wooden doors can be stained to highlight the natural grain, while fiberglass or steel doors can be painted to match your home’s exterior palette. Custom finishes not only add beauty but also provide protection against the elements, ensuring that your door remains durable and weather-resistant over time.

Cost Breakdown for Exterior Doors

When choosing an exterior door, understanding the costs involved is crucial.

A door is not only an investment in your home’s aesthetics but also in its security, energy efficiency, and longevity.

The price can vary greatly depending on factors like material choice, customization, and brand.

In this section, we’ll break down what influences door prices and offer guidance on how to get the best value for your budget.

Factors Influencing Cost

Several elements impact the cost of an exterior door, and understanding them will help you make an informed decision:

• Material Choice:
  The material you choose for your door plays a significant role in its cost. Wooden doors are often the most expensive due to the natural materials and craftsmanship involved. Fiberglass and steel doors are typically more affordable options that still offer excellent durability and energy efficiency. Aluminum doors fall somewhere in between, offering a good balance of strength and cost-effectiveness.

• Customization:
  Adding custom features like unique glass inserts, hardware, and finishes can increase the overall price of your door. The more specialized your request, the higher the cost. Custom-made doors from brands like TruStile and Simpson will generally be priced higher than off-the-shelf options.

• Brand Premium:
  Well-known brands like Pella, Stanley, and Therma-Tru might come with a premium price tag. These companies have built their reputation on quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction, which often means a higher initial investment.

Comparing Entry-Level, Mid-Range, and Premium Options

When comparing prices, it’s important to understand what you’re getting at each price point.

Here’s a quick overview of what to expect at different budget levels:

• Entry-Level Doors:
  Typically made from fiberglass or steel, these doors are affordable and practical. They provide basic security and insulation but may have fewer design options and features like customization. Expect to pay anywhere from $200 to $500 for a simple entry door. While budget-friendly, these doors still offer decent quality and durability for most homes.

• Mid-Range Doors:
  At this price range, you can find better-quality materials, such as higher-grade fiberglass, wood veneers, or reinforced steel. Customization options like glass inserts and enhanced finishes are often available. Prices typically range from $500 to $1,200, depending on features and brand. Mid-range doors strike a good balance between cost and performance, offering improved aesthetics and energy efficiency.

• Premium Doors:
  Premium doors from high-end brands like Pella, TruStile, and Simpson often feature superior materials, top-tier energy-efficient glass, and extensive customization options. These doors are designed to last and offer maximum curb appeal, security, and energy savings. Prices for premium doors typically start around $1,200 and can go up to $3,000 or more for fully customized, high-end models.

How to Find the Best Deal Without Sacrificing Quality

Balancing your budget with quality can feel like a challenge, but there are several ways to get the best value:

• Look for Sales and Discounts: Many door manufacturers offer seasonal promotions or sales events, allowing you to score a high-quality door at a reduced price.

• Focus on Essential Features: Prioritize features that matter most to you—such as security or energy efficiency—and consider skipping less critical customizations. Opt for standard sizes or finishes to save money while still getting a door that meets your needs.

• Invest in Durability: Sometimes, spending a bit more upfront on a durable, energy-efficient door can save you in the long run by reducing maintenance and utility costs. Look for energy-star rated doors that help lower your heating and cooling expenses.

• Compare Brands: While well-known brands may have a premium price tag, lesser-known but reputable manufacturers may offer similar features and quality at a more affordable rate. Don’t be afraid to shop around and check reviews before making a purchase.

Conclusion

In summary, the most trusted exterior door brands like Pella, Stanley, Therma-Tru, and JELD-WEN offer a blend of durability, energy efficiency, and security.

Each brand provides a variety of materials, designs, and customization options to fit various homeowner needs and budgets.

Take the time to explore different door options, compare prices, and read customer reviews.

By considering your home’s style, security needs, and energy efficiency, you’ll find the perfect exterior door that adds value and curb appeal to your home.

FAQs on Exterior Door Brands

1. What is the best exterior door to buy?

The best exterior door largely depends on your priorities. For security and durability, a steel door is your top choice, offering superior strength and resistance to weather changes. If aesthetics and energy efficiency are more important, consider a fiberglass or wood door, both of which provide excellent insulation and customizable designs. Ultimately, the best door balances your security needs, energy efficiency, and home style.

2. Is Jeld-Wen or Therma-Tru better?

Both Jeld-Wen and Therma-Tru are highly regarded, but Jeld-Wen stands out for its superior finish and design quality. If a polished, aesthetically pleasing look is essential, Jeld-Wen is the better choice. However, Therma-Tru focuses on energy efficiency and performance, making it an excellent option if those factors are a higher priority than appearance. Both brands offer exceptional value, so your decision should be based on design preferences and performance needs.

3. What is the longest-lasting exterior door?

When it comes to longevity, steel doors are by far the most durable. They are less prone to damage from weather elements and are built to last for decades. Steel doors also provide excellent energy efficiency, which can help reduce energy bills over time. While they offer fewer design options compared to wood or fiberglass, their durability and security features make them a top choice for homeowners looking for long-lasting performance.

4. What are the top door brands?

Some of the most trusted names in the exterior door industry include Andersen, Jeld-Wen, Marvin, Masonite, Pella, and Therma-Tru. These brands are known for their high-quality materials, innovative designs, and durability. If you’re looking for energy-efficient, secure, and stylish doors, these companies are excellent places to start your search.

5. Which quality of door is best?

For a balance of strength, aesthetic appeal, and customization, wooden doors (or engineered wood like plywood) are often the best option. Wood is known for its structural integrity and resistance to warping. Additionally, wood doors are highly customizable, allowing you to choose from a range of finishes and designs to suit your home’s style. If you want a durable, beautiful, and versatile option, wood is a great choice.

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