Design Buy Build Issue 35 2018 | Page 58

Knock on wood What to look for in a front door Whether it’s to hide behind or make a statement with, your front door is the defining element of the public facing exterior of your home. It’s the strangers’ first impression as they call on you, and it’s the portal to your own little haven after a long day. It is also crucial for your home security and can play a significant role in your home’s energy performance. As such, it needs to be robust and expertly fitted as well as looking stylish, so it’s worth taking the time to consider what you should look out for when you’re fronting up to getting a new door. Bespoke joiners David H Wright advocate that a solid wood door remains the wise choice for an Englishman to choose for his castle, large or small. Technology in terms of wood door manufacture has come a long way since the builders of the Middle Ages constructed their mighty doors - which even so have stood the test of centuries, as you can see in many of our listed properties. Today, new techniques in timber treatment mean that timber now outstrips the plastic imposter, UPVC, in terms of performance, as well as excelling in terms of aesthetic appeal. Solid wood front doors are without doubt the clear choice for home owners with period homes and for newer home owners who are interested in an environmentally superior product for their property. Manufactured in the traditional way using mortis and tenon joints, a new solid wood front door will endure for the lifetime of the property. There is plenty of scope for contemporary styling as well as traditional designs. David H Wright finds that the classic panelled door remains a firm favourite with customers. Available in a choice of woods, you can choose glass panels and stunning paint finishes to really have your door tailor- made to suit your taste and the style of your property. Sidelights, fans and arches all add 58 character and the use of special clima-control glass helps to control the temperature regardless of the external conditions. Safety and security is paramount. The firm recommends that doors are fixed with either a traditional style five lever mortise locking system, or the European standard Multi point locking system which comes fitted with a 3 star rated cylinder providing the ultimate in security. The door furniture is as much a part of the design as the door itself. From traditional hinges and handles to state-of-the-art fixtures, there is plenty of choice for you to add the final touch. For more information on refining your front door, contact Sharon Wright and the team on 01977 681832 or at www.dhwjoinery.co.uk