Use and Care Manual

APPLICATION
This is the most important step in your new entry system selection process! Protecting it properly can lower
maintenance, improve performance and extend the life of your new entry system.
Every exterior door requires protection and there are many factors to consider such as exposure to natural elements,
color choices, storm door use and the degree of homeowner maintenance required. All of these factors must be
evaluated to determine your final choice.
Helpful Hints
Door Type:
Wood doors need the most protection and will require the most maintenance depending on exposure. Fiberglass and
steel doors can tolerate more exposure but still require adequate protection.
Overhang:
In short, every exterior door—Entry, Patio or French Doors—should have an overhang
to protect the unit from natural elements, lowering care and maintenance and
extending the life of the unit. Overhangs should extend at least four feet wider (two
feet each side) than the door unit and at least five feet out from the house. In extreme
exposures (facing south or west) or climates (desert or coastal) overhangs should be
double that size.
Inadequate overhang protection can lead to color fading, component damage and
water related issues such as warping, wood failure or leakage. Adequate overhangs
increase your choice of door types, design, colors and specifications. They also insure
years of dependable performance.
Colors:
The effect of natural elem
ents, especially the sun, is generally under estimated. The face of an exterior door can
exceed 120 degrees in many applications. Prolonged exposure at these temperatures can quickly deteriorate the
finish and physically damage the door.
Remember—light colors reflect heat, dark colors absorb heat. Consider sun exposure and overhang protection when
selecting a color for your door. Your choice of colors can directly affect your door’s health. Choose wisely.
Storm Doors:
Storm Doors are definitely a double edged sword. Yes, they can protect your new door but in hotter climates they can
also harm an entry system quickly. The temperature behind a storm door can exceed 200 degrees in many
applications. Sun exposure, color choice and overhang protection should be evaluated when considering a storm
door. Make sure you evaluate thoroughly.
Please follow these guidelines to insure years of maximum performance from your new Entry System.