Showing posts with label Exterior. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Exterior. Show all posts

Thursday, December 1, 2011

Fiberglass Exterior Door Purchase and Maintenance

Are you considering changing your door entrance? Are you tired of looking at the door on your home that is in terrible condition due to the effects of the sun? There are many homeowners who are faced with this dilemma all across America. The sun wrecks havoc on the wood door and destroys the wood in a very short time. The best option for the homeowner in this condition is fiberglass. A fiberglass door entrance will give you years of lasting beauty, but is not 100% maintenance free. But a fiberglass door entrance is by far the best option for a homeowner.

exterior doors for sale

There are lots of people who love fiberglass exterior doors because they are durable, are relatively maintenance free and they look will good for many years. In general, Fiberglass exterior doors are durable and will last a long time with very little care, or care that is simple for most homeowners. Any fiberglass door will still require some maintenance from the homeowner from time to time to ensure that they last and to keep their new looking beauty. This care is by far alot easier than dealing with a wood product, making fiberglass the preferred choice in high sun exposure conditions.

EXTERIOR DOORS

Fiberglass doors are definitely attractive, stylish, and durable. There are many designs available to choose from and many manufacturers offer them. Our number one choice is the Jeld-Wen brand, who have the most realistic wood look and the best quality finished product on the market. But with any other brand you may choose you still need to keep them working well, a small amount of maintenance must be kept in mind.

Fiberglass doors can come finished from the factory or are available unfinished for the homeowner to contend with. Remember that when you purchase a door, if it's not already painted the color that you want, you will need to purchase paint and paint them every few years to keep them looking nice. Depending on your budget, Fiberglass doors can either be inexpensive or quite expensive, but they will still need maintaining. Doors finished from the factory will last longer and require less work and may come with a better warranty.

Issues that can affect these Fiberglass doors
Fiberglass doors are not subject to the harmful effects of cracking or rotting as found in wood doors, but still they have some issues that require periodic maintenance to keep the door in perfect shape.
These doors should not be subjected to any physical impacts or other external pressure on the surface of the door. In case such impacts take place, the material of the door can be chipped or scraped because of it and may require refinishing or repainting.

There can be a certain amount of superficial wear caused in these doors by the sun's rays. This needs to be repaired else it creates the appearances of scratches on the fiberglass door. A good prevention or way to prolong the finish is to apply a marine wax each season. Simply use a spray on wax that would be used on a fiberglass boat and the wax will help to protect the unit from the harmful rays of the sun.

Dirt accumulation on the door should be cleaned by using specialized cleaners as available for these doors. If your door was stained and has a poly finish simply use furniture polish to remove the dust and dirt accumulation. Treat the unit just like a piece of furniture.

These are just a few of the basic maintenance activities for the fiberglass exterior door. But these simple procedures are all the homeowner will need to maintain their door entrance for many years after it is installed on the home.

Fiberglass Exterior Door Purchase and Maintenance

The author of this article is Peter Sicoli. Peter owns and operates Somerset Hills Doors a successful custom millwork and door company.

EXTERIOR DOORS

Wednesday, November 30, 2011

Invest Wisely by Upgrading Your Exterior Front Doors

Modern homes would benefit from upgraded exterior front doors. Not only would a replacement door greatly improve the overall appearance of your house, but it would also increase the value of your home.

exterior doors lowes

Front doors are available in different styles and designs. They are also made of different materials. The type of material you choose for your doors would influence their prices. A popular material used for the front door is glass. You can choose between a full-view or half-view glass model and embellish it with sidelights. Many online retailers would be more than happy to help you in making a choice

EXTERIOR DOORS

Carved and Mansion:

Door Emporium believes that changing a home's entry door will significantly enhance the look of the house. The company has a line that not only offer superior performance but can be a work of art. Take for example its Carved and Mansion models which are artistically hand carved by master carvers. All are available in chosen mahogany and are sold unfinished.

Fiberglass Entry Door Systems:

Therma-Tru offers this package that the company claims boost the homeowners' comfort and quality of life. It also increases the curb appeal of your home. The company also guarantees that using this front door will increase your home's perceived value by almost ,000. The Classic-Craft Rustic model is constructed with durable fiberglass making it look like a real wood grain. It takes advantage of the company's AccuGrain technology which creates a look of a high-grade wood but the durability of a fiberglass.

Exterior Doors by Milano:

The company guarantees that its line of doors is constructed to enhance the visual appeal of any home. These architecturally-designed collections are offered in a wide range of heights and widths and can be custom-built too. The stainless-steel versions have multi-chamber insulation with thermal door separation and special foam inserts to give the best cold and heat resistance. The mechanism of the stainless doors is made of high material for superior security. Their 11-point locks will pose a challenge to any intruders. They can withstand any weather conditions. They are designed to prevent temperature fluctuations, giving you the highest level of comfort.

Rustic Exterior Entry Door:

Emeralddoors.com offers this beautiful door for your entrance. The Betram-style is available in single, double and single door with rectangular or elliptical transom and two sidelights. The oversized sidelights allow it to swing freely. The beauty of the wood is enhanced by multiple premium polyurethane coats and traditional mahogany stain.

Kershaws Door Warehouse Front Doors:

The company offers more than 2,500 models in numerous styles and timbers. Kershaws stocked on non-standard-size doors made of pine, clear pine, oak and hardwood. There are various styles also, including bifold, French doors, antique stripped reclaimed and custom-made reproduction period models. For custom hand-made period exterior front doors, the company works from a sketch or photograph to produce your desired door according to your size and style specifications. The construction method used by the company eliminates the possibility of twisting and warping. It can also produce any design for any door type using traditional leaded glass.

Invest Wisely by Upgrading Your Exterior Front Doors

For more about the home improvement benefits of Exterior Front Doors, visit http://www.theresidentialdoors.com.

EXTERIOR DOORS

Vinyl Exterior Shutters Add Style

Our new home in North Carolina was truly beautiful but for some reason I kept thinking that it was missing something... The home was all stone in the front and I realized it had no shutters. My husband and I decided to go with vinyl exterior shutters in a deep merlot color. That particular color worked really well with the stonework on the house. In the past the only type of shutters that we had ever had were wooden and they were hard to care for. It felt like the paint was always peeling or there was some type of mold or wood rot on them. We knew that vinyl exterior shutters were virtually free from any type of upkeep and they looked great and would last.

exterior doors with sidelights

The style of vinyl exterior shutters we chose were raised panel because I really liked the way they sort of popped of the house. When you looked at the home the vinyl shutters really stood out and added color and definition to the windows. Vinyl exterior shutters come in many different styles and they can be painted if needed. Most companies that carry vinyl exterior shutters will offer them in around 20 colors but sometimes painting them is necessary because they may need to match an existing color on the home. We were very lucky with the deep merlot color because it matched some of the stone perfectly.

EXTERIOR DOORS

Having the option of using vinyl exterior shutters was not only good for improving the look of our home but it also saved us a lot of money. These shutters are very affordable as well as durable. Compared to the old wooden ones that always needed paint and repair the vinyl ones are a much better deal. Vinyl exterior shutters are readily available and very easy to install. They weigh almost nothing and hang in just a few minutes. My husband was so proud of himself when he was done hanging the vinyl exterior shutters. So much so he stood out in front of the house bragging to the neighbors about how "handy" he was. Well, he did do a great job and the vinyl exterior shutters look terrific.

Vinyl Exterior Shutters Add Style

Simon Harris writes about Vinyl Exterior Shutters at http://www.shutter-world.com

EXTERIOR DOORS

Saturday, November 26, 2011

Considerations When Choosing Exterior Wood Siding

Transit home decoration may come and go, vinyl fades in and out, and aluminum is popular every few years, but one choice that is here to stay his exterior Wood siding. Some of the oldest houses have been clad with exterior wood siding, yet even today wood is a reflection of modern design aesthetics.

exterior doors with blinds

The popularity of exterior wood siding can probably be attributed to its versatility of design. Be it channel, bevel, tongue and groove, or wavy edge wood has a lasting power that just won't quit. Its many different styles can be mixed and matched to form a custom solution that meets the needs of the homeowner.

EXTERIOR DOORS

Here are some detailed specifications of wood siding design.

Wavy Edge Bevel

With the advent of the more modern design, aesthetic natural designs are now becoming synonymous with somewhat chaotic and twisted structures. More simply straight lines are no longer in fashion, and natural curves and angles are in. When choosing an exterior wood siding to mimic this natural look wavy edge bevel is an excellent choice.

To see some great examples of wavy edge bevel exterior siding click on its link at http://www.haidaforest.com/products/index.php. There you will find some excellent examples from Haida Forest Products LTD.

Board & Batten

Board and Batten use a vertical technique to apply exterior wood siding. A technique uses to wood siding boards of different dimensions to create an aesthetically pleasing effect. Traditionally the board and Batten technique uses three-inch battens and ten-inch boards to create the effect. Different dimensions can however be used to create radically different designs that change the entire exterior of the home.

When using the board and Batten technique boards are applied to the entire exterior of the home, and then the battens cover the joints. The purpose of the battens moves beyond aesthetics, as they sealed the joints keeping rain from entering the interior of the home.

Bevel

When making a bevel the exterior wood siding is cut at an angle him in producing the illusion of in two materials stacked one on top of the other giving somewhat of a 3-D effect. When using a bevel exterior wood siding it is usually installed vertically to produce a very pleasant shadowing effect.

When choosing a beveled exterior wood siding Western red Cedar is the most commonly used material due to the high percentage of knots in the wood. These knots are considered very attractive, and are highly sought after when producing a rustic looking exterior wood siding.

Considerations When Choosing Exterior Wood Siding

Learn more information on Vinyl Siding

Manufacturers and Buy Vinyl Siding Online. homesidingreview.com is a comprehensive resource to know more about home siding review.

EXTERIOR DOORS

Monday, October 24, 2011

Functional Exterior Shutters - A Good Investment For Your Home

Functional exterior shutters can be a great investment in your home. For starters, they add curb appeal and boost your home's value. Furthermore, the fact that they are functional provides critical storm protection for your home, which can be especially important if you live in an area that is prone to hurricanes. When purchasing and installing functional exterior shutters, there are a lot of important considerations that must be taken into account. The following article contains a checklist of questions that homeowners should ask themselves before investing in functional exterior shutters.

exterior doors lowes

Is hurricane protection a consideration?

EXTERIOR DOORS

If you answered no to this question, then you can skip right on to the next question. If you answered yes, then you'll need to do some homework before purchasing shutters. First, contact your local building department to inquire about building codes and/or product approvals that are applicable to your area. A local building department may also be able to guide you toward a good installer, too. Look for shutters that have received Miami-Dade County Product Approval. This approval is considered to be the highest standard in the industry for shutters and other hurricane protection products.

What type of functional shutters are you installing (material and style)?

There are many different types of functional exterior shutters on the market today. The most common material for functional shutters is wood. Types of wood can vary, though cedar is a common choice because it weathers quite well. There are many different styles of shutters on the market. What you choose depends on the size and style of your windows and architectural elements of your home. Exterior shutters play a big role in your home's appearance and curb appeal. Be sure you take time to choose something that suits your tastes and compliments your home's architecture.

What type of hardware will be used in the installation?

Functional shutters require hardware, including hinges, pintels, tie backs, and hook latches and or center slide latches. The quality of hardware you choose is closely related to how much you want to spend. Steel hardware is by far the most common choice. There are two types of steel hardware to choose from: carbon steel and stainless steel. Carbon steel is economical; however, it will rust, particularly in salty, coastal areas. Stainless steel hardware will not rust and is a much better choice, although it is also much more expensive. Not sure if what you're looking at is carbon or stainless? Check it with a magnet. Carbon steel is ferrous, and therefore magnetic, whereas stainless steel is not. If you do choose carbon steel hardware, be sure is it covered with a durable powder coat painted finish, as this will delay the rusting process.

Aluminum shutter hardware is also available, though it is not as common. If hurricane protection is a consideration, then aluminum hardware is probably not the best choice.

Remember, functional shutters are a homeowner's first line of defense against hurricane damage. When a window is broken in a hurricane, the high speed winds enter the home and put enormous pressure on the interior walls and roof. In most cases, when a home collapses or a roof is torn off, it's usually because a window was blown out first. Functional exterior shutters (whether or not they have been approved by Florida Building Code or Miami-Dade County Building Code) are an excellent investment in protecting your home and your life.

Many insurance companies now offer reduced premiums and discounts on deductibles for homes with functional exterior shutters. Be sure to check with your insurance company before purchasing and installing shutters to find out if you qualify.

Functional Exterior Shutters - A Good Investment For Your Home

Ellen Bell works for Home Products n' More, a company dedicated to providing high quality products for your home, garden, and auto. Home Products n' More offers exterior shutter hardware, including a complete line of all stainless steel shutter hardware, all with free shipping and handling. Visit us at http://www.homeproductsnmore.com/Shutter_Hinges_s/109.htm

EXTERIOR DOORS

How to Choose Exterior & Interior Paint Colors For Your Home

Choosing Exterior Paint Color Tips

steel exterior doors

" If a home is large and is on a small lot, painting it white or a light color will make the house seem larger and the lot seem smaller.

EXTERIOR DOORS

" When choosing the color of your front door carry out the personality from inside your home. It will create a bridge to connect the inside to the outside.

" A dark color on the lower portion of the house grounds the home to the earth.

" Light or white is an excellent choice for windowsills for reflection of the sun's heat and light into the house. The sash, frames and sills painted individual colors can really enliven a home. Even a subtle change in color can add appeal.

" Accentuate the positive and significant architectural details. For instance, rain gutters may not be worthy of an accent color, but if the rain gutters are part of the outer trim boards on the roof line, paint them to match the trim boards and they will blend in and work with overall design of the house.

" Windows are the eyes of the home they can add or even define the character of a home. Decorating them with flowers or drapery lends crispness to the color scheme.

" Color makes an impression, and can enhance the appeal of your home. A creative color scheme can add enjoyment and value to the home.

" Paint always looks dark on a textured surface due to the shadows the home creates.

" Pay attention to the geography of your home. Intense sun washes out colors so brighter colors that are suitable in Sunbelt areas might stand out in the northern locations.

" Balance is important. Keeping the balance between light and deep and warm and cool colors; consider not just paint color scheme but all the elements that make up the surroundings.

" Consider the color of your shingles when painting your home as well. If you have a black roof consider grays or whites. If you have a brown or tan roof consider earth tones.

" Avoid paying too much attention to metal window colors, they tend to blend in and go unnoticed.

Choosing Interior Paint Colors Tips

" Pick your favorite object in the room such as a rug, wall art, or a piece of furniture. The colors in this piece will set the scheme for the rest of the room.

" Pick colors that match that favorite piece and coordinate those.

" Pick accents to bring the color scheme together for most people, the "best part" of choosing colors is completing the look with accents and furniture. Everything from chairs to window treatments can help coordinate your color scheme.

" Choose a color theme. For example, cool colors give the illusion of space, while warm colors tend to create warm and cozy spaces.

" When changing colors from room to room consider which path in the home is most traveled and have the colors flow in that direction.

How to Choose Exterior & Interior Paint Colors For Your Home

EXTERIOR DOORS

Friday, October 21, 2011

Finding the Right Exterior Window Shutters

Exterior window shutters can be used as decorative additions to your house. They can also be used to keep out the light, heat and noise.

exterior doors for home

Comparing Exterior Window Shutters

EXTERIOR DOORS

When you start looking for exterior window shutters you will soon find that there are many different types of shutters. Some are used for functional purposes while others are used as decoration only.

Decorative exterior window shutters tend to be made of wood or faux wood. These are usually attached to the side of the exterior windows and painted to match the trim or the door of the house. These shutters consist of one panel on each side of the window. These panels does not open or close, but remain affixed to the side of the window. These are often added to houses to increase the curb appeal of the house.

Solid exterior window shutters can look the same as the decorative windows, only they're built to shut. These shutters are made of wood panels. Many of them also contain decorative outside panels to add a little pizzazz to the shutter. These shutters are very effective at keeping out the cold in the winter and the heat in the summer.

Roll-down metal shutters and Bahama shutters are two types of exterior window shutters that are used as emergency shutters. These shutters are not used on a daily basis because they block all sunlight from the house. They also don't keep out the heat because that's not what they're meant to do.

Emergency exterior window shutters are used when a massive storm such as a hurricane or a tornado is en route. These shutters are made of sturdier materials such as metal or steel and they are not attractive. However, they will prevent your windows from breaking during a natural disaster. This will keep you and your family safer.

Shutters To Go in or Out?

So how do you know if you need interior or exterior window shutters? For starters, you don't have to choose one or the other. People who have exterior shutters also have interior shutters. Each type of shutter serves a different purpose.

As we discussed, outside shutters are primarily used for decoration and protection from wild storms. Some of them are also used to insulate the house. Inside shutters are used solely to protect the house from the elements and to create an element of privacy in the home.

Some people find outside shutters very unattractive, but they may like the look of inside shutters. The nice thing about both inside and outside shutters is that they can be used in conjunction with other window coverings such as curtains.

Whether you decide to use inside or outside shutters, make sure to do a little research before you buy your shutters. If you shop around, you'll be able to find exterior window shutters at a discount.

Finding the Right Exterior Window Shutters

Choosing the right exterior window shutters for your home can improve it's value and it's beauty. Get tips on interior and exterior shutters by visiting http://www.mywindowtreatmentpro.com/

EXTERIOR DOORS

Thursday, October 20, 2011

Outdoor Lighting - Lighting Up Your Exterior Living Spaces

Outdoor lighting in your home is installed primarily for security purposes, but can also be selected and placed to add some mood or highlight the design of your home. Lights in the exterior areas of a home, such as backyards, front lawns and patios, can make the simplest of houses to the most charming abode in the neighborhood.

prehung exterior doors

One of the places in your house that constantly need security lighting is the garage. Make sure this area is amply covered with lighting at night. For a small garage, a single light at the center of the entrance would suffice. But for a 2-car garage or bigger areas, you should install some more. The sides of your house also need proper illumination for a similar purpose. In addition, sensors in your lighting system in these areas are a good idea if you'd like to save energy. These sensors automatically activate your lighting system when programmed according to time or when motion is detected.

EXTERIOR DOORS

Of course, outdoor lights are very important in the entryways of your house. The front entrance lighting should always be functional and aesthetic. An uncovered front door would look inviting, warm and elegant with a wall sconce on each side. If your front door is in a covered porch, you can install from the simplest to the most ornate hanging fixture on the ceiling. Aside from providing you with a dramatic façade, front entrance lighting lets you easily see who's knocking at your door and helps keep your home safe from burglars and the like.

You can transform your dull and boring backyards, decks and patios into a favorite hangout place that's romantic, chic or however you want it to be with the proper outdoor light fixtures. Spotlight on a tree or a plant that you'd like to be a main feature in a certain spot is a simple idea that brings an enchanting element to the place. Tiny low-voltage lights on the ground promote not just visibility but also a sentimental mood in your exterior space.

Your functional spaces outside your house like your barbecue and pool areas require an ample amount of lighting to avoid accidents and injuries. Swimming pools must have proper underwater lighting to ensure safety during your poolside parties and night swimming laps. Outdoor barbecue and kitchen areas should have task lighting fixtures, which are usually recessed spotlights or track lighting.

There are, indeed, many things to consider when deciding on the lighting products for your exterior living spaces. Good thing you've got outdoor lighting shops online that offer you wide selections of illuminating systems answering the various requirements of your exterior living spaces. Compared to hardware stores or light shops in malls, online vendors usually have more unique products that come from various manufacturers, which you can also research on through other websites. So, if you need to choose some lighting fixtures for your outdoor areas, you might want to check out some vendors on the Web and see their numerous solutions for your lighting needs.

Outdoor Lighting - Lighting Up Your Exterior Living Spaces

Outdoor lighting online from various top-rated light manufacturers can be found at Buyster. Visit the Buyster website for an array of outdoor lights, interior light fixtures, and other types of lighting systems, all available at reasonable prices.

EXTERIOR DOORS

Sunday, October 16, 2011

Exterior Double Doors - A Quick Overview

French doorways are among the most desirable to homeowners due in large part to their effortless elegance. They're different than other doorways in that they're built from two-layers, which allows for opening both inwards and outwards. Read on to learn more about the various types of exterior double doors available to buy and install in your home.

exterior doors for sale

French doorways may be used either outside or inside the house. Indoors, they function well as dividers between one living area and the next and are a much more stylish replacement for sliding closet doors. On the other hand, these doors can be charming and functional when leading to an outdoor patio, for example.

EXTERIOR DOORS

Outside facing French doors can be found in a number of designs and in a wide range of prices, from cheap to expensive. Many feature ornamental details including glazed or stained glass, which is usually double-paned, and even wooden edges with custom carvings.

Hinged Front French Types: These can open in the direction most suitable to their use. Front doors should open into the home, for example, while patio ones are better opening out into the patio space.

Pocket French Types: Like bifold closet doors, pocket French doors do not swing, the slide laterally into the walls on either side. This makes them ideal for small entryways unable to properly accommodate the swinging of a hinge.

They're also great for small porches or patios. They do require room on either side, however, and also need special construction considerations. Adding a sliding screen door is also desirable in this setup scenario.

Bi-Fold & Multi-Fold French Types: These accordion-like folding doors are excellent for closets and even sheds, but do not make the best exterior door option for a home. They're installed and hinged on a track and slide and collapse with effort and can be condensed down to a quarter of their size.

While every type of door has its purpose, it's important to consider the desired function and overall look you're looking to achieve with your purchase of exterior double doors. Besides the two most obvious considerations of climate and budget, if you keep the above considerations in mind, you should be ready to make an informed purchase.

Exterior Double Doors - A Quick Overview

Want more important information on selecting your exterior doors?

Click Below!

http://www.slidingcloset-doors.com/exterior-double-doors.php

EXTERIOR DOORS

Saturday, October 15, 2011

Enhancing the Interior and Exterior of Your Dodge Charger With Aftermarket Accessories

Are you an automotive trendsetter or a follower? If you are a trendsetter, continue restyling. On the other hand, if you are a follower, please follow me to the restyling zone where automotive dreams are made of. This is not Facebook or Twitter follow me, just follow me, so I can show you how to enhance the internal and external features of your Dodge Charger with the latest aftermarket accessories. Not all of us are gifted equally when it comes to automotive restyling. If you are among the few that don't know how to style your Dodge Charger, follow these simple suggestions.

steel exterior doors

If you are looking ahead to enhance the look of your Dodge Charger in every new season with fresh collection, how is the idea of adding custom aftermarket grilles? If you look around or drive down the street, you will practically see a whole lot of Chargers or mistake a Dodge Avenger for a Dodge Charger. Reason why? A dodge Charger that is not supped up just look plain and boring. However, you can do something about it; start with replacing the stock grille. One of the first options in styling your Dodge Charger is replace the boring one-style-fits-all factory grille with aftermarket options. There are several grille offerings from top manufacturers such as E&G Classics, T-Rex Billets, Asanti, Giovanna, Carriage Works, Putco, Precision, SES Trims and MVP Styling.

EXTERIOR DOORS

If you are a showoff enthusiast, try enhancing the exterior of your Charger. Among the many options; Body Styling kits, rear trunks spoiler, and rear roof wing. If you like to bling bling, add a dash of chrome trims to the exterior with chrome door handle covers, fender trim moldings, chrome taillight bezel, fender or rocker vents, rocker panel moldings and chrome body side moldings. Projector headlights, high intensity definition (HID), LED taillights are not a bad idea in any one way. For you to really exhibit a different persona for your Dodge Charger, upgrading of your wheels is a must. 20 inch, 22 inch and 24 inch wheels will do the trick. You might not believe me, but adding a set of square fender port holes will cap the finishing touch to the exterior of your ride.

Adding body kits and chrome trims is just a phase of your Dodge Charge enhancement. You are welcome to go extreme. A custom paint job that includes flames, two tone paint or even candy paint is a possibility. How about a Lambo vertical kit or even a suicide door? Enhancing the exterior of your Charger has no boundary or limit. If you have unlimited funds or simply have a serious passion for your ride, you may also make some aggressive styling that requires you replacing the front end with a Chrysler 300 front. It is possible and do-able. Mind you, these are suggestions; don't over do it, as too many cooks spoil the broil.

Are you done enhancing your Charger yet? Of course not; it is not over until the fat lady sings. Since you do not know which of the fat lady is going to sing, I suggest you start decorating the interior of your Charger right now. The interior is definitely the home away from home. And as such, add accessories that encompass style, security, convenience, comfort and protection in any order. For comfort, I recommend seat covers, floor mats, dash covers, cargo liners, sunshades and legal window tint. Also, try upgrading the electronics of your Charger. There are lots of choices; back up sensor alarm or back up alarm is not a bad idea. You are also welcome to add dash accents, upgrade the audio, video, speakers, GPS navigation system, or simple plug-ins for your iPod, cellular phone chargers or what have you.

The availability of the interior and exterior auto accessories in different styling option would help you to add freshness to your ride. Each of them is made up of different kinds of style to reflect different features. However, all of them are designed to give you the ultimate comfort and style that you might seek in enhancing your Dodge Charger. The key to enhancing the interior and exterior of your Charger is coordination. A coordinated styling will eliminate the frustrating decision of attempting to install all the above accessories at one time or any time when your appearance needs to make a statement.

Enhancing the Interior and Exterior of Your Dodge Charger With Aftermarket Accessories

For more information about Dodge Charger Accessories Accessories, visit http://www.showtrix.com

EXTERIOR DOORS

Thursday, October 13, 2011

Exterior Door Choices - Guidelines

Wood

steel exterior doors

Doors made of wood are highly recommended when they are protected by an overhang and not facing direct sunshine from the east or west.   Wooden doors have an aesthetic appeal and add to the feeling of warmth in a home. They also provide an authentic look.  However, they require some special care and attention in order to ensure a very long lasting product.

EXTERIOR DOORS

As wood doors are made of natural fibers, there will be some expansion or contraction under different temperatures. Each door will perform differently according to the particular environment in which it is installed. A wood door in a very hot environment may require some periodic maintenance, typically once a year. Protection will vary according to the finish applied.

There are many varieties of styles and finishes available in doors made of wood. Some are offered with impact resistant glass. Please see our Door Samples web page to get an idea of the tremendous variety of wooden doors now available.

Solid wood doors typically provide increased security, longer life, and require less maintenance than those that are not solid wood. The wood doors that we carry are only solid wood.

Fiberglass

Fiberglass doors require little or no maintenance. Many fiberglass doors are now available with the look of wood.

Steel and Other Metals

Steel doors (and doors made of other metal composites) are recommended when there is little or no overhang protection and at patios and front doors when they will be exposed to severe weather conditions. They do not require maintenance, as they are made of galvanized steel or other metal laminate with wood inside.

Steel doors are available in a wide variety of styles, including hurricane impact resistant types.

Energy-Efficient Doors

Custom-fitted doors made with polystyrene cores have been demonstrated to have superior energy efficiency ratings.  "Custom fit" status is achieved merely by making several key measurements of the door opening to ensure proper fit of the door before it is ordered and installed.  This ensures the air-tightness of the door and allows the polystyrene core to achieve its full effect.  Doors in hot climates such as Miami, Florida are rated as energy efficient if they keep warm temperatures out; doors in cold climates are rated to be energy efficient if they effectively keep cold temperatures out and retain heat inside. 

Regarding Severe Weather Conditions

As long as a door is installed so it opens outward, it will provide an additional measure of safety and security under severe weather conditions. For example, in high winds, the frame will help protect the door against inward wind force.

In areas such as Miami, Florida, hurricane impact doors provide an extra measure of safety and protection against hurricane force winds. Hurricane impact resistant doors vary in quality. Local governmental entities may offer certifications and approvals of specific door models and brands.

New Door Styles

New styles of doors have been introduced with blinds installed internally between two layers of hurricane impact door glass. This provides an additional benefit of not having to dust blinds.

Exterior Door Choices - Guidelines

Nick Covey is the Webmaster and content writer for J&M Doors, Inc. of Miami, Florida.

J&M Doors, Inc. at http://www.j-mdoors.com/ is a locally owned and operated family business, with an emphasis on friendly, courteous, personalized service. J&M opened its doors in 2007. This company was formed after the staff gained experience with a larger organization that was felt to be overpricing its doors and was not providing the individual service that each customer deserves.

EXTERIOR DOORS

Tuesday, October 11, 2011

Exterior Doors - Wood, Fiberglass Or Steel?

There are many choices when it comes to exterior doors for your home. The three most popular door types are wood, fiberglass and steel. Factors such as where you live, the exact style or design you want and your budget will all affect your decision. If you are thinking about replacing your exterior front entry door then you should think about all the great benefits to a new front door such as adding curb appeal and value to your home. A new door will also give the exterior of your home a quick update for a relatively low price. In fact, you can purchase a really great quality steel door (which is one of the best door types on the market) for about 0.

exterior doors with sidelights

Wood Doors
Wood doors have been around the longest of all doors and provide the most decorative and personalized options. These traditional doors have other beneficial characteristics such the ability to be painted or stained, a project you could probably handle on your own. Wood doors are made better and stronger today then they used to be. While wood doors do provide a sense of security (being that they are thick and heavy) they are not as secure as fiberglass or steel doors in that they have the potential to be kicked in. You can also choose from a variety of finishes for a wooden door and easily customize decorative glass for the door. If you live in a hot climate such as Las Vegas or Palm Springs then a wood door may not be best for your home because the wood can swell and end up costing you time and money from having to maintain and fix the door. If you want a warm and traditional feel to your home and top security isn't a priority for you, then wood doors are an excellent option.

EXTERIOR DOORS

Fiberglass Doors
If you are looking for a strong, very secure and very energy efficient door then a fiberglass door is a great option for you. Fiberglass doors look and feel like wood but won't crack, warp, scratch, peel, swell or expand like wood and are three times stronger than wood doors and in some cases can be easily painted or stained. These doors have a wood grain texture molded into them which gives the appearance of a real wood door when painted or stained. Fiberglass doors resemble wood doors so closely that it is hard to differentiate between which one is real wood and which one is fiberglass. These doors provide added security protection and greater insulating quality- while keeping to a traditional theme with less maintenance than wood doors.

Steel Doors
Steel doors are the most energy efficient of the doors discussed here but do not have as much decorative options as wood. Steel doors are the best option for those who live in areas that are subject to harsh weather such as hurricanes or tornados since they are so tough and strong and also hold up to all the elements (such as heavy rain and snow) well. Another great benefit to steel doors is that they don't chip or crack or even warp. Another perk is that many steel doors come with a fireproof option. Keep in mind that steel doors can get dents but can also be easily repaired if needed. Being that steel doors are so strong and secure and the most cost efficient, they will probably continue to be one of the most popular door choices.

Whatever door you choose for your home, make sure that you weigh out the advantages and disadvantages of each door type to find the one that suits you best. If you are looking for other door types for your home, such as a garage door from any of the materials discussed above, then make sure you find a professional contractor to install it for you.

Exterior Doors - Wood, Fiberglass Or Steel?

Marcy Tate is a content writer for Networx.com

At Networx.com, we connect you with local contractors who are trustworthy, quality professionals that are screened by us and reviewed by you. Make sure you click this link Doors Networx to find a reliable, local garage door contractor in your area and to receive free quotes on any garage door needs.

EXTERIOR DOORS

Sunday, October 9, 2011

Exterior Doors for Home: Can Wood Work?

When you think about exterior doors for home, you should keep in mind that these are the first things that people getting into your house will always see. The exterior door is also the most used in the house by both visitors and the people living in the house. As such, much consideration should be given when choosing the material and design for them.

exterior doors for home

When we talk about aesthetics, there is no material that can beat wood in that game. The beauty of the natural grain of hardwoods and the fact that you can curve wooden doors to come up with any design you desire are facts that cannot be spoken of any other material. So, if you want to make that unforgettable impression in the minds of the people who visit your house, then you should think about wood as the best material for exterior doors for home.

EXTERIOR DOORS

A major concern that most people have is that wood is affected by weather and would expand during wet seasons and contract during the dry and hot season. Due to this expansion and contraction, wood is said to be a weak material that will require constant maintenance work. These claims, today, are only facts if one makes the wrong choice of the wooden doors dealer. Good dealers today have a way of treating and finishing wood that will make your exterior doors for home almost weather resistance. So you do not have to worry about the material but the dealer.

Wood is an expensive material owing to its natural way of giving your home a touch of class and creating a palatial impression even from a simple small home. However, the beauty that wooden doors give your home and the class that it puts you in is worth the money that you give for it. Maintenance of hardwood exterior doors for home would also not costly if you get the best providers for treated hardwood. The important thing to keep in mind is that the skills of the person installing the doors for you will determine whether you get the value you desire or not.

Exterior Doors for Home: Can Wood Work?

Click here http://www.essenceofwoodworking.com to see pictures of my work and services. You can contact me or order the woodwork project for you on the website.

EXTERIOR DOORS

Types of Exterior French Doors

French doors are some of the most popular doors to use in a home today mainly because of their exquisite beauty. What sets these doors apart from other door types is the fact that they are constructed out of double-layered doors, which means that one can open inwards and the other outwards.

exterior doors

French doors can be used both inside and outside the home with interior doors being ideal for rooms such as the dining room; while exterior doors can work wonders for your patio. This article will focus on the various types of exterior French doors, to enable you to make the right choice for your home.

EXTERIOR DOORS

Exterior French doors are available in a variety of styles but mainly feature decorative or carved wood edges with stained or glazed glass. These doors are also normally available with double-paned glass which provides for better insulation. Below is a look at the various types of popular choices for exterior French doors you can choose for your home.

Hinged exterior French doors: These are 2 double doors which are hinged, thus enabling them to either open out of or into a room. For instance, if you use hinged French doors for your patio, the out swing doors will open onto your patio. You may opt for hinged French doors made out of decorative metal or ornate wood, along with decorative or clear glass. If you don't want the hassle of constant maintenance, go for the hinged doors made from vinyl or metal which do not have glass.

Pocket exterior French doors: These are ideal to use in rooms which do not have a lot of space to accommodate the swinging open of the doors. Pocket French doors will slide into the walls on either side of the door. When used for the patio, these doors slide off to the side which enables you to save on space if your patio is small, or in the event that you don't have adequate space for them to open in to the patio as well.

It is important to allow for enough space for the pockets and special construction that the exterior pocket French doors require on either wall. This will help to ensure that the doors are properly sealed and protected from the elements.

Bi-Fold and Multi-Fold Exterior French doors: These are accordion style doors with door panels which are hinged together and set onto a sliding track, which enables them to fold and slide to the side. Bi-fold and multi-fold exterior French doors are very attractive and stylish to have in any home. Bi-fold doors comprise of two panels which fold twice onto itself, while the multi-fold doors consist of smaller panels which fold three to four times onto themselves.

Both styles of doors are ideal for use in small rooms and spaces as they do not take up too much room. These doors nevertheless require special construction which will ensure that the doors remain sealed and protected from the vagaries of the weather. To find out more about French doors visit the Savoy Doors shop.

Types of Exterior French Doors

Joan One is a freelance journalist and creative writer who immensely enjoys writing and researching into any topic under the Sun. She specializes in writing "green" eco-friendly topics aimed at enabling environmentally conscious readers to find simple ways to reduce their carbon footprint and help save our planet.

EXTERIOR DOORS

Saturday, October 8, 2011

Buy Exterior Doors: 7 Tips on How to Get the Best Exterior Doors Today

When you buy exterior doors, there are usually different things that you have to keep in mind. You have to think about the right material, design, energy-efficiency, and security and weather-resistance features. If you're thinking of replacing your entry door at home, here are some practical tips that you can use when you buy exterior doors.

exterior doors for home

Identify the purpose you have in mind for your entry door; it will save you lots of time. Do you want to use it as a mere decorative piece or as a barrier against criminals? Most of the time, homeowners prefer to buy exterior doors that are durable enough to withstand forced entries and the different weather elements.

EXTERIOR DOORS

Steel, fiberglass, wood, or aluminum, which is which? All are good options, actually. All of them have their set of pros and cons. Steel and fiberglass entry doors are very durable, low maintenance, and highly resist deteriorating effects of weather elements. Wood entry doors are dent and scratch resistant and very elegant.

After you've chosen a material, it's now time to focus on the style that you want. There are so many choices out there. You can buy exterior doors with flat or smooth surfaces, or you could choose one with wood-like texture. You can combine different styles of decorative glass panels, sidelights, and transoms to make your door conform to your personal taste - don't forget to choose energy-efficient glass panels.

Glass panels add to the beauty points of your front door. But when it comes to security reasons, these can used by criminals to go in your home. It is wise to reinforce them with iron grills, or you could keep them away from your locking system.

The prices of front doors today range from cheap to expensive (0 to ,000 each, more or less). These could quickly cost higher as the design becomes more intricate. You also have to take into account the cost of additional accessories, installation and maintenance. Steel and fiberglass doors are usually cheaper to maintain and easy to install.

Do not forget to check the warranty policies of the manufacturer that you are going to buy your door. The warranty is a good indicator of the quality of their product. If possible, stick with a well-known company. Anyway, if the manufacturer is disreputable, complaints are almost always available online. But if not, try to ask friends or relatives for recommended manufacturers or distributors.

Shopping through online or offline means are both valuable options. It is great to shop online because of the wide selections and great discount promos. But visiting your local or national home improvement store also gives you the opportunity to get a closer inspection before you buy exterior doors that you like.

Buy Exterior Doors: 7 Tips on How to Get the Best Exterior Doors Today

These are just a few of the options when you buy exterior doors.

Next, discover how the right exterior door at http://www.doorshelpunlimited.com can save you time and money!

EXTERIOR DOORS

Friday, October 7, 2011

Refinishing Exterior Doors in the Southeast US

Exterior Doors in the Southeast US, more specifically Mississippi and Louisiana, suffer from a tremendous amount of elemental damage.

exterior doors for sale

While the heat might be fine for enjoying the lake, hiking, and swimming pools; sun and heat cook exterior doors like a fried egg on a skillet. Exterior doors' finish takes most of the damage from direct sun resulting in peeling, flaking, or even complete breakdown of the finish.

EXTERIOR DOORS

The winter does not help either. The typical Southeast ice storm causes as much or more damage because of the short duration of exposure to extremes. It may be 80 degrees on one day and then 20 degrees the next, with rain, sleet, or snow.

If your doors were finished correctly, meaning the doors were laid down flat and three coats of polyurethane were applied, your doors have lasted for about 3-5 years in direct sun without fail, longer if your exterior front doors are covered or somewhat protected. In my experience in Mississippi and Georgia I have found that most finishing on new homes is substandard, unless the house was a custom built home.

If your front doors only had one coat applied when you bought the house, after a year or two, you are probably staring at bare wood, and an ugly entryway. It bothers you when you drive up, it bothers you that friends and neighbors see the unsightliness of your entry. You want it fixed.

You can try to do this yourself. I recommend you don't. You should call a pro. One thing you can always find in and around the South is a ready stable of carpenters, painters and contractors. I have been in the door business in Jackson, MS for years and done many a refinish job on front doors.

When you need doors refinished, look to a local provider, especially in the Southeast, they will have the knowledge about not only the refinishing requirements, but also wood species that perform well under the conditions here in the South.

I have found a few folks who I interviewed for this article and the best one I found is a re-modeler/painter who knows the proper process for refinishing doors, right here in Jackson, MS.

I've also taken the opportunity to see his work throughout the Jackson Metro area, including Ridgeland and Madison. My point is you can find someone who is a professional when it comes to properly refinishing your door.

Do as I do. Take the time to research local Southeast Door refinishers, painters, contractors. Interview them over the phone. Ask and take the time to see their finished work in your local area. And finally, make sure they are DoorSmart. Ask questions about their experience and their process for refinishing.

If you take the time to do this, you will find you can drastically improve the look of your front entryway tremendously and get rid of that nagging dilapidated annoyance you call a front door and finally get back to that rocking chair on the front porch.

Refinishing Exterior Doors in the Southeast US

Please feel free to contact me for local Jackson, MS Door Refinishing and throughout the Southeast.

EXTERIOR DOORS

Wednesday, October 5, 2011

Exterior House Paint Colors and How to Choose Them

So it's about time again to repaint your home outside. But how do you choose exterior house paint colors? This can be a real headache of indecision. If you pick a wishy-washy color possibly none of the trim work will contrast with it. If you pick a very strong vibrant color and contrasting trim color in the home might look like a place out of Alice in Wonderland which again is not good. This might bring your neighbors knocking at your door.

exterior doors with sidelights

Taking great colors will show the best features of your house or hide some of the worst features of your house. But the question is what are these colors.

EXTERIOR DOORS

1- You can hire a pro for paint consultation

2- You might want to look at your neighbours house and see if you want to possibly use some ideas from his house paint colors

3- Something to consider is look at your roof color/your brick color/siding color. These colors will establish a baseline for picking a color to harmonize with them.

4- Considering the house look at how many detailed features you have on its and you might want to paint these different features different colors for example shutters, moldings, doors, porch decks, pillars. These are all some things you might want to highlight with color to make them stand out.

5- I suggest walked to the front of your house look at it from a distance and keep in mind to make sure that you are going to paint your home do we want it to look for example not lopsided on one side with a color for example.

For more ideas

Exterior House Paint Colors and How to Choose Them

From years of experience and working on hundreds of homes I see hundreds of great ideas on kitchens and washrooms and bedrooms. Too many to mention. For great ideas and how to do stuff ask me at: home repairs or painters Toronto

EXTERIOR DOORS

Monday, October 3, 2011

View Changes to Your Exterior Home, Colors, and Materials Instantly - For Free

Homeowners who want to make exterior changes to their home, sometimes need to have a way to visualize how their homes will look, before they begin their project. This is now possible using an free online exterior home color and material creator. I have found a cool free Internet tool that might not be as all inclusive as the CAD software I use, but it is an easy to use, quick way to visualize how exterior home improvements will look almost instantly.

fiberglass exterior doors

This tool is not perfect, but works good enough to help home owners make choices or at least narrow choices down which will help speed up the decision making. Anything to save time or money, is always a good thing and it can actually help take some of the stress out of making these types of decisions.

EXTERIOR DOORS

Here is how it works. First users type in the zip code of where they live, and then they be able to choose from materials available in that area. Next users will be able to choose a home that most closely resembles the style and look of their own home. So if it's a ranch, two story, colonial or other style of home, they can pick one that is most like theirs to begin.

Next, what I do is make changes to the exterior, to get it to look as close to what I already have as I can. The reason for this is because I want to see what the changes I make will look like next to the other existing colors and materials that exist on my house.

So if a home owner had black shingles and wanted to change the color to a lighter gray, they simply drag and drop the shingles from a huge shingle drop down library, into do a designated box, and then they can watch the roofing on the house change to the new shingle choice.

This process continues with the siding, exterior trim, doors, doors and window trim, railings, decks and painted surfaces. One could literally give their home a complete exterior makeover within minutes. Users can even make up three or four versions, using different color and material choices, which makes for more options.

When a project is completed, it can be enlarged, zoomed in on, printed, emailed and users can sign up, to be able to save and store their finished products.

Keep in mind that users choose actual photographs of real homes, and the roofing shingles and siding are actually materials that are available to purchase from building material suppliers. So, when any of the materials are changed, users will see them in the photos exactly how they will look on the home.

After the user makes all the exterior color and material changes, the resulting 3 Dimensional finished product is a real home with real products and colors. What you see, really is what you get!

View Changes to Your Exterior Home, Colors, and Materials Instantly - For Free

To use this amazing exterior home color and material selector tool click on the following link: http://www.showroom411.com/news/news/exterior-style-materials-color-creator/241

In 2007, Rick Maselli founded RTM Directories Inc. and as president of this company his goal is to help the do-it-yourself people out there to have a one stop home improvement resource and that resulted in his new website, http://www.showroom411.com

The website offers Professional Home Improvement Advice which is free to the public and reflects all the hard work that Rick has put into to being a building Pro. Free members can also Ask Rick any home improvement question and get a personal answer from an actual contractor.

EXTERIOR DOORS

Sunday, October 2, 2011

Aftermarket Truck Parts - Interior and Exterior Accessories

Looking for reliable and authentic parts for your vehicles is a tough job not only because it is difficult to understand which part would work the best with your vehicle but also because most of the times you are not sure what parts you need to buy and what parts you can afford to ignore. This article will help you understand the different interior and exterior accessories that you must buy or can miss out to buy. Aftermarket truck parts can be divided into two groups:

fiberglass exterior doors

Exterior accessories

EXTERIOR DOORS

Interior accessories

Exterior Truck Parts:

Must Buy:

Interior Truck Parts
Bed rug
Cargo management and tailgating systems
Computer mounts
Consoles
Design films
Digital gauges
Floor mats and liners
DU-HA storage
Dash kits
Mobile video
Inferno flamed gauges
Floor mats and liners
Husky gear box
Pedals
Novelty accessories
Rear view mirrors
Pet tents
Seat covers

Can Afford Not to Buy:

Shelf-it
Shift handles
Shift knobs
Steering wheels
Speed glo gauges
Shop organizers
Step shield
Truck seats
White face gauges
Gauges

Exterior Parts:

Must Buy

Air dams and ground effects
Bed accessories
Bike racks
Bras
Billet grilles
Bull's balls
Bumpers
Cargos carry alls
Bug shields
Cab visors
Camper tops
Cargo bars
Chrome accessories
Covers
Fuel doors
Grill guards
Fender accessories
Custom graphics
Headache racks

Can Afford to Miss

Hood ornaments
Hitches and accessories
Hoods and scoops
Lambo doors
Ladder racks
Logo inserts
Jeep tops
Mud flaps
Rear Window accessories

All these and there are many other truck parts that you can buy at affordable rates from a number of online and on-site stores.

Aftermarket Truck Parts - Interior and Exterior Accessories

You can read more information before you buy aftermarket truck parts, and read exclusive reviews kragens auto parts from my websites.

EXTERIOR DOORS

Saturday, October 1, 2011

Low Voltage Exterior LED Lighting - Precious Information Regarding Outdoors LED Lights

In spite of the truth that some outside LED lighting may be excessively vibrant and generate robust disagreeable glares, minimal voltage outside LED lights will produce a non-glaring soft gentle that shines fantastically at evening.

exterior doors with sidelights

Even with the reality that some outside LED lamps could be excessively brilliant and create robust disagreeable glares, small voltage outside LED lights will produce a non-glaring soft gentle that shines fantastically at evening. Affordable voltage LED light is good for accentuating primary parts inside your patio or backyard, despite the fact that also supplying security lights within the region of sidewalks, stairs, as well as other paths. What's extra, they shall be capable to produce light-weight in parts of darkness exactly where intruders may possibly conceal from view.

EXTERIOR DOORS

Elegance and protection are two very advantageous positive aspects of minimal voltage exterior LED lights, but they are also exceedingly power effective, preserving you plenty of funds more than greater voltage illumination. Their lowered voltage indicates they're additional environmentally pleasant.

Further positive aspects will probably contain automated timers which may very well cut down vitality expenses, a substantial assortment of many wattages, and sensors that detect movement. A light-weight fixture that turns on as soon as movement is detected could make lifestyle hard for burglars along with other disagreeable intruders even though reducing power expenses like a consequence of reduced energy demands. Well-lighted parts can deter undesirable intruders, and illumination that comes on at evening can enhance the safety of a household. Owing to all the benefits of affordable voltage LED lights, there's definitely a selection that may match your wants and spending budget.

Putting in LED light techniques is really a quite trouble-free undertaking for that property proprietor. You can expect to uncover a big quantity of exterior LED lights kits to choose from that consist of all the elements you would like for speedy and trouble-free installation. These LED kits will consist of LED bulbs, also known as LED lamps, transformers, and all critical wiring. The transformers will minimize the voltage to twelve volts, creating it a great deal much less hazardous for home owners to set up their pretty personal out of doors wall lamps or other kind of exterior lighting. Outdoors lamps are open towards the components for example rain and snow and in any respect occasions existing a risk of electrocution. With very low voltage outside LED illumination this threat is absent thanks towards the decreased voltages, but it is nonetheless vital to gain LED lights kits that are climate resistant.

Affordable voltage LED backyard lamps as well as other types of exterior LED lights are ordinarily installed for visible functions. They are supposed to create your yard and household appear further gorgeous within the night. If extreme higher voltage illumination is utilized to mild your residence or landscape you are going to finish up shelling out a lot more income on electrical energy though detracting out of your home's visible attractiveness. Except the objective would be to illuminate a place for security factors, small voltage outside LED lighting and appliances are normally the optimum resolution.

When placing up affordable voltage outside LED lighting it is going to be valuable to begin using a strategy. Believe wisely about exactly where the LED illumination will greatest suit its objective prior to purchasing and putting in it. Be certain to mild sidewalks and dimly lit locations with small wattage outside LED illumination for security. You can moreover cut down your expenditures by putting in reflectors to enhance the gentle as an option to obtaining more bulbs. A supplemental tip for preserving bucks would be to set up techniques that include timers and movement sensors.

Concerning transformers there is only 1 truth you might be needed to become accustomed to. You will need to become specific in no way to overload it by using lamps with an extreme quantity of wattage. As an example, if you've a 60-watt energy pack you'll be able to use 3 12-watt LED lamps or six 6-watt lamps.

Low Voltage Exterior LED Lighting - Precious Information Regarding Outdoors LED Lights

Happy writer that writes about green living using simple available technology. Also writes about everyday life ideas.

EXTERIOR DOORS