Pine varies in both color and grain, depending on the species and how it is cut. Typically light brown, pine will yellow and darken with age. Additionally, pine doors sand finely and evenly, offering homeowners many smooth and glassy finishes from which to choose. Read on for more information about the potential pros and cons of investing in an exterior pine door.
Costs of Pine Doors
Pine doors are usually less expensive than most other wood types, typically ranging from as low as $250 to a reasonable $700 and up. While pine exterior doors are less expensive, they do have a shorter lifespan than other woods.
Due to the fact that some pine species are endangered, many homeowners are concerned about the environmental impact their new door may have. The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) now offers the option of purchasing certified pine entry doors, which are sustainably grown and harvested.
Durability of Pine
Pine is classified as a softwood, which means that it is more easily dented. Even so, with proper protection, pine's durability can be vastly improved. Since pine is much softer than many other woods commonly used for exterior doors, pine entry doors typically last between 10 to 20 years.
How to Treat Your Pine Entry Door
Doors constructed from wood that dents easily like pine can be more difficult to treat than other exterior doors . For the best results when painting or staining a pine entry door, it's important to properly prepare the wood first. For a smooth finish, pine doors should be sanded, both before treatment to remove any previous dents or defects, as well as after. For a homeowner who wants a glassier finish, another once-over should do the trick.
Repairs and Maintenance
While all wood doors can be sensitive to weather, pine exterior doors are especially sensitive. Homeowners should examine their entry doors annually to see if they need repair or maintenance. If you notice difficulty in opening or closing the door, or any dark streaks near the bottom (indicating that the wood has absorbed moisture), you should sand or refinish these areas as soon as possible.
Energy Efficiency and Tax Credits
Wood doors are usually not as energy efficient as other entry door options. Solid exterior pine doors have little insulating value, with an R-value between R-2 and R-3 for 2-3/4” thick door. However, many manufacturers can add an insulation core to the door panels, raising the R-value to about R-5 or higher.
Summary: A Solid, Long-Lasting Choice for Your Home
Pine is a common and fairly cheap material used for exterior doors today. While pine doors tend to have a shorter lifespan than doors made from other types of wood, taking the proper steps to protect it will give your home a strong, rustic, and knotty look.
