The color of cedar varies from light to dark reddish brown, and its texture varies from fine to coarse. Cedar is an aromatic wood, and it provides a pleasing odor that not only smells good, but also repels most insects. Additionally, cedar tends to be a good insulator, so it generally helps keep houses warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. It is therefore hardly surprising that a cedar entry door is a smart addition to any home.
Costs of Cedar Doors
Exterior cedar doors come in a wide range of prices but are generally moderately priced. At their cheapest, cedar doors can be as low as $100-$200, and at their most expensive, $1000 or more. The vast majority of cedar doors, however, fall somewhere between $100-$400, making them an affordable option.
Cedar is not an endangered or threatened species of wood, but homeowners who are concerned about the environmental impact of their door can purchase a solid wood door certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC).
Durability of Cedar
Cedar is one of the world’s most durable wood species. This type of wood possesses natural preservatives that repel moisture, insects, and the growth of most fungi. Additionally, cedar stands up exceedingly well to the elements, and it generally does not warp over time. With its innate hardiness, cedar is a practical option for both interior and exterior projects.
How to Treat Cedar
Cedar wood lacks excessive pitch or resin, so it responds favorably to staining or finishing. When working with exterior cedar doors, both hand tools and power tools are highly effective. Bleaching oil gives cedar a rugged and weathered look, while semi-transparent stains preserve cedar’s original coloring.
Repairs and Maintenance
All wooden doors need regular maintenance, and a cedar door is no exception. Homeowners should carefully monitor a cedar door in order to keep up with any maintenance. Due to cedar’s durability, however, the upkeep of any cedar door should be minimal. Applying a coat of stain or finish to the door will dramatically decrease the amount of future maintenance.
Energy Efficiency and Tax Credits
In general, wood doors are generally not as energy efficient as other exterior door options. Depending on their thickness, most wood doors have an R-value between R-1 and R-2. Many manufacturers can add an insulation core to the door panels, raising the R-value to about R-5 or higher.
Summary: A Practical and Affordable Choice for your Home
Cedar's modest price tag and stability are must-haves for any homeowner. Its versatile and long-lasting qualities also make it a highly reliable building material. To get started today and find a cedar entry door for your home, contact residential contractors in your area with HomeAdvancement’s easy links.
