Banishing Bad Doors, One Home at a time!

Your front door is the gateway to your home. It welcomes your guests and keeps you and your family secure.

However, not all front doors are created equal. Some make a bad impression, while others can be the weak link in your home’s overall security.

We really are on a crusade to #Banishbaddoors here at Kettell Windows! We have replaced hundreds of entrance doors across Leicester & Leicestershire so let’s look at what makes a bad front door and how to banish it!

So, what do we consider to be a bad door?

1) Poor security – Standard locks are easy to snap & clone.
2) Poor fit – Often bowed and draughty.
3) No style – New build housing development doors are often all the same and lack personality.
4) Old fashioned – White panelled uPVC Doors.
5) Developer fitted doors – Driven by budget constraints for the developer, they are often poorly fitted and not made from high quality materials.
7) Safety – Single glass on old doors as well as broken locks and loose door handles.

Appearance:

The appearance of your front door can either add or detract from your home’s kerb appeal.  A front door that is old, outdated, or dirty can make negative first impressions on visitors.

As the saying goes, first impressions count, so why not make your door stand out and showcase your unique personality. With over 250 colour combinations to choose from, your front door can be really bespoke to you. Maybe you’re drawn to warm tones or perhaps you love the energy and vibrancy of a bright colour. You could even choose a more neutral shade that is perhaps more in-keeping with the style of your property.

In addition to colour, there are other ways to customise your front door and make it truly unique. You can add stylish hardware, like a sleek modern door handle or a vintage looking door knocker. You could also opt for a decorative or etched glass panel to add some interest to your door. The key is to choose elements that reflect your personality and aesthetic.

At the end of the day, your front door is an extension of your personal style and taste. It sets the tone for your home and welcomes guests into your space.

By choosing a colour and style that truly speaks to you, you can create a front entryway that is not only functional, but a true expression of yourself.

Functionality:

Your front door is more than just a decoration; it must serve its intended purpose. A door that sticks, or is difficult to open and close not only frustrates you, it can also pose a safety hazard as well.

Have you ever stopped and thought about just how often you open and close your front door each day? If you’re like most people, you probably don’t give it much thought. But the truth is, the average front door is closed multiple times a day, making it one of the most frequently used elements of your home.

But it’s not just the act of opening and closing the door that matters – it’s also the hardware you choose to do it with.

Your door handle and lock are the most used exterior element of your home, making them crucial in both functionality and style.

When it comes to choosing the right lock mechanism and handle for your front door, there are a variety of options to consider. Slam locks, for example, are a popular choice for those who want instantaneous locking. Smart locks, on the other hand, offer the convenience of remote access via your smartphone, making them a great choice for busy families or those always on the go.

But it’s not just about the lock mechanism – the style and design of your door handle are just as important. Whether you prefer a sleek modern handle or a more traditional look, there are plenty of options to choose from.

Recently, we had a lady in our showroom who was struggling with arthritis and could no longer operate a traditional lock. After listening to her needs, we were able to recommend a lock and handle solution that was easy for her to use.

Ultimately, choosing the right hardware for your front door is an important decision that shouldn’t be taken lightly. So why not visit our showroom and let us help you find the perfect lock and handle for your home and style.

Security: 

Your front door is also the first line of defence against intruders. A door that is weak or poorly made can easily be breached, making your home vulnerable to break-in.  Standard door locks are also easy to snap & clone so consider upgrading to a door that’s made of durable materials and features strong security hardware.

Front door security is a crucial consideration for any homeowner. According to recent statistics, in the UK there is a domestic burglary every 90 seconds, with the majority of break-ins occurring via a front door. This highlights the importance of investing in high-quality security measures to protect your home and the people and possessions inside it. At Kettell, we take security seriously and offer doors with high-security cylinders as standard. These cylinders (Avocet-Hardware) offer excellent protection against forced entry, adding an extra layer of security to your home We believe in providing our customers with peace of mind when it comes to the security of their homes, and our products speak for themselves.

Energy Efficiency:

Your front door also plays a significant role in keeping your home energy efficient. A door that has bowed, is draughty or not properly insulated can let in unwanted air, increasing your energy bills that have already risen due to the cost-of-living crisis. Upgrading to a door that is energy efficient can help save you money in the long run.

According to Designing Buildings up to 25% of heat loss in UK homes occurs through the doors and windows. This statistic emphasises the importance of choosing a front door with high insulation properties. By selecting a well-insulated door, you can help to keep your home warm and comfortable while also reducing your energy bills. If you would like to find out more about how to improve the energy efficiency of your home, visit the Energy Saving Trust website at https://energysavingtrust.org.uk/home-energy-efficiency

To summarize, a bad front door can detract from your home’s kerb appeal, reduce its overall security, and increase your energy bills. If you notice any of the signs mentioned above, it may be time to consider a replacement. Be sure to choose a door that’s attractive and in-keeping with the style of your property, functional, secure and energy efficient to get the most out of your investment.

Don’t let a bad front door leave a bad impression, BANISH it once and for all!!