You pay so much attention to every other facet of your home: from exterior paint color to what kind of couch to buy to the paintings on the walls. However when it comes to visitors’ all-important first impressions, nothing will make a greater impact than your entry door! Here are some tips on how to make your entry door area and its surrounding area really stand out.

The Door Itself

Is your door old? Is the paint peeling, cracking, or completely worn off in high-use areas? Sometimes, the best thing you can do to give your house an exterior facelift is simply to replace the front entry door and nothing more! You’ll be amazed at what a difference it makes.

The style you choose is largely a matter of individual taste and budget constraints. If you want a grand, heavy door with lots of leaded glass and elaborate styling, you will definitely pay a lot of money for it. The best doors in the “less expensive” category are metal doors: they are safe and secure, stylish, and can be painted any color. Newer homes are coming standard with alder entry doors. Wooden doors are lovely indeed, but keep in mind that they will not be as durable as steel ones.

A good rule of thumb: Visit with a professional door installer, and then choose a door that fits your home style, your security needs, and your budget.

What About the Porch?

If you have a porch, take advantage by making it as inviting as possible. Put out some chairs and a little table or even a swing, and keep the area well-swept and tidy at all times. If you are limited to a doorstep, put out a colorful pot full of fresh flowers to welcome your guests.

Take the time to reassess your front entry and see if a new door might make a big difference. As they say, you only get a single chance to make a good first impression.

Toms River Door and Window (http://www.tomsriverdoorandwindow.com/) supplies such as entry doors in NJ and installs products for home improvement and commercial application. Ryan Coisson is a freelance writer.