Tropical and subtropical regions experience seasons a little bit differently than the rest of the world, with a “wet” season and a “dry” season. Additionally, tropical areas are best known for two kinds of weather: humidity and precipitation. With some tropical climates averaging 60 inches of rainfall per year, it’s important to find front entry doors that will stand up to this moisture. Read on to find the best type of front entry doors for beautiful tropical living.
Factors for Tropical Front Entry Doors
Historically, many tropical homes, known as stilt houses, are built on wooden, concrete, or steel pillars or posts. This elevated style keeps the home off the ground, protecting it from floods and allowing homeowners to build on rocky, steep, or unstable earth. This style can also help keep small animals such as rats or insects out of the home and maximize a home's beautiful views.
Styles for Tropical Front Entry Doors
When living in a tropical climate, many homeowners seek front entry doors that take advantage of their region's beautiful abundance of light. While french doors allow for a great view of the outdoors, they will not be able to filter out sunlight on their own. Homeowners who would like french doors should consider a simple windows treatment, such as bamboo blinds or a set of sheer curtains, which will still allow some sunlight in while keeping your rooms a bit shadier. Dutch doors are also an excellent option for tropical living. This style of door is divided horizontally, so that homeowners can open the top half for more ventilation and light.
Homeowners should also consider front entry doors with screens, which will allow more ventilation into your home while keeping out those pesky tropical insects like mosquitoes.
Tropical doors need front entry doors that will endure the humidity and rain. | © CC BY 2.0 flickr.com / Jeremy Weate
Materials for Tropical Front Entry Doors
While wood doors are classic and strong, these will most likely warp or rot in a tropical climate due to the high levels of precipitation and humidity. Fiberglass is a great material for front entry doors in tropical regions. While they tend to be more expensive, fiberglass front entry doors are extremely durable and warp-resistant.
Glass for Tropical Front Entry Doors
Heat-absorbing tinted glass is a great option for tropical environments, as its chemical coating changes color in reaction to heat. This kind of glass will reduce the sun's glare to protect your rooms and your furniture and improve temperature control.
Solar control glass is another great option. This kind of glass allows sunlight to pass through a window, while keeping out much of the sun's heat. As a result, your rooms will stay bright and cool.
Summary: Bright Options For Tropical Living
There’s no doubt that tropical living is a unique experience. Fiberglass front entry doors can stand up to humidity and precipitation. Additionally, you can improve your tropical home’s energy efficiency with the right type of glass. For more help finding front entry doors for your tropical home, check out our database of local contractors.
