You can add decorative glass panels (beveled, etched or leaded), transoms or sidelights to your door without giving up the positive insulation factor. Triple-pane, tempered glass eliminates this concern as well as any safety issue. If you want a highly insulated door with the beauty of wood, insulated cores are available in some wood doors, and a steel door inside thick, hand-finished veneers is also available in North Carolina.

Insulated steel doors, some of them stainable, are a good alternative against thieves. They are more durable and rigid, standing up to the trials of storms and moisture. They are superior for overall security, durability and efficiency. The options of decorative glass are still available for individualizing the entrance, including the use of security glass, with a plastic pane between the indoor and outdoor glass panes.

A reasonable alternative is a composite door. Stainable ones are made of a durable skin of resin with either fiberglass or carbon fibers. The skins are placed in large presses to produce the graining and texture of a natural wood door. Unlike a wood door, a composite door will not warp, crack, swell or chip with changes in weather and humidity. Polyurethane foam creates an energy efficient and strong core. Secure against forced entry, you may also add decorative triple-pane and tempered glass.

Add openers that delight the senses and your welcome is complete. Many of today's handles, knobs, knockers and lock sets are interesting and eye-catching, produced in shiny brass, hand-hammered iron, or rough-cast bronze. For maximum security, entry door hardware should be paired with a mortise lock, which fits into a rectangular slot cut into the edge of the door. With this additional step, kicking in the door or trying to spread the jamb will not provide entry. Even more effective are the new - but expensive - keyless locks which open doors with the touch of a keypad, a magnetic card, or a hand held clicker.

Whatever your choices, today's many entry door options can provide just the right design for you. With an eye-catching style and secure closure, the ordinary becomes a strong first impression.