The best front entryway updates before winter are the ones that make the entrance warmer, safer and better looking at the same time: a solid front door, sturdy railings on the steps, good lighting, and a few simple finishing touches. You do not need a full remodel. A handful of well-chosen changes will make guests feel welcome and help your Connecticut home handle cold, snow and ice.
Start With the Front Door
The door is the centerpiece of the entryway, so it is the update that changes the most. A new entry door gives the house a cleaner, more current look and adds curb appeal right away. If the existing door is dented, faded or out of date, replacing it can make the whole front of the house look cared for.
Before winter, fit matters as much as looks. A worn door with tired weatherstripping lets cold air in and heated air out. A new door that closes tightly helps keep the entry hall comfortable. A new front door can also add value to the home, which is worth keeping in mind if you may sell in the next few years.
Add a Storm Door for Extra Protection
A storm door puts another layer between your front door and the weather. It helps shield the main door from wind, rain and snow, and it lets you bring in daylight on bright winter days without opening the house to the cold.
Install or Replace Railings Before the Ice Arrives
Front steps are at their most dangerous in winter. If your steps have no railings, or the ones you have wobble, autumn is the time to deal with it. New railings make the entrance safer and more inviting, and they add curb appeal as well.
Wrought iron and aluminum railings are both popular choices for front steps and porches. Both last a long time. Aluminum has the added advantage that it does not rust, which helps in a climate with a lot of snow, slush and road salt.
Update the Entryway Lighting
Shorter days mean you and your guests will be using the front steps in the dark more often. Good lighting is both a safety update and a style update.
Coach lanterns or wall sconces beside the door add character and light up the porch and steps. If you prefer something more discreet and modern, spotlights are an option, and some floodlights come with built-in cameras for the front entryway. Check that the walkway and each step are clearly lit, not just the door itself.
Keep Snow and Rain Off the Doorstep
If your front door has no roof or overhang above it, rain and melting snow land right where people stand to find their keys. A door canopy gives the entrance some cover and adds a finished look to the front of the house.
Finish With a Wreath and Doormat
Small accessories make an entryway feel welcoming. A seasonal wreath and a new doormat are inexpensive and easy to change. Choose colors that coordinate with your front door rather than grabbing whatever looks nice in the store, and pick a wreath sized to suit the door. A sturdy mat also helps keep snow, salt and grit out of the house.
Plan Your Front Entryway Updates
The entryway is the first thing people see when they come to your home, so it pays to get it ready before the weather turns. If a new door, storm door, railings or door canopy is on your list, Aladdin can help you sort out the options. Get in touch with our Wallingford team or call (203) 776-9996 to talk through your project and request an estimate.