The steel door is secure, robust, and aesthetic, it is offered in many types of models and colors. Very economical, it ensures effective airtightness and resistance that meets the Canadian Energy Star® standards. Steel exterior doors generally have a wood core. It is composed of galvanized steel sheets with polyurethane foam between which is inserted under pressure. This process ensures a good level of insulation. In the factory, it usually receives a perfect anti-corrosion treatment for our 4 seasons as well as a very resistant double component polyurethane acrylic paint. According to many experts, the insulated steel door is probably the best quality/price ratio on the market.
Advantages of the steel door
Economical, this door is widespread. The composition of the steel door gives it a certain advantage since it can have an insulating factor of up to R16. It regularly comes with double magnetic weatherstripping that completely hugs the metal of the door frame when closed. The addition of a third weatherstrip at the bottom of the door effectively completes the air and water tightness. The galvanized steel sheet is of minimal maintenance which gives it another advantage. Some companies offer up to 240 color choices and can even manufacture, for a small extra charge, a special color.
Disadvantages of this door
The wood core of the steel door is subject to warping. Most manufacturers consider a deformation of up to 1/4 inch (6 mm) normal. This detail usually causes a break in the airtightness of the weatherstripping. The lower quality door may be made of very thin wood, which makes it easier to burst and facilitates break-ins. However, the installation of steel reinforcing bars will correct this defect. In addition, less expensive models are often insulated with styrofoam rather than polyurethane, which creates lower quality insulation.
Maintenance of the steel entrance door
This door model is not capricious. Annual maintenance is quite sufficient. Use soapy water with a sponge. What is interesting with the steel door is that it is possible to change the color. The process is simple and inexpensive. To create adhesion, you must lightly sand the surface. Then apply an appropriate coat of paint. It is strongly suggested to use a paint gun for a neat finish. Pay particular attention if you completely change the tone. An additional coat may be necessary if you are using a light color on an old dark door.
Also read: How to Choose Your Garage Door
Installing the steel door
The entrance door must be professionally and safely installed. There are several aspects to consider in order for the door to be guaranteed by its manufacturer and, above all, for it to do its job properly, which is to insulate part of the house. The door frame must be perfectly adjusted, the interior and exterior cladding must also be installed correctly, not to mention the protective strips and the clock adjustment. In short, I strongly suggest that you call on professionals who will know how to install your exterior door. Moreover, they will guarantee you security and efficiency.
The steel door in a nutshell
It is recommended that the thickness of the steel sheet covering the steel door be of a good gauge. The 26 gauge is sensitive to dents because it is a little too thin. The 24-gauge is thicker and will better resist dents. It will also provide better insulation. Note: The caliber varies from 22, 24, 26, or 28. The higher the number, the thinner the sheet.
Translated and adapted by Noobuzz staff.
Sources: Canalvie