For years the leader for the project with the best return on investment in the annual Cost vs. Value report was an entry door replacement (particularly steel). Recently, manufactured stone veneer and a garage door replacement have taken over the top spot on the mantle with a 90% or higher cost recoup, but that doesn't mean a new entry door still isn't a worthwhile investment.

On this particular project an entry door replacement changed the entire attitude of the front of the house. This homeowner opted for a wood door instead of steel and it was the perfect choice as the dark tones provide a great contrast to the lighter siding.

The wider door frame with the full-length vertical mirrored window is what gives this door replacement the ultimate aesthetic boost. That glass is shatter resistant so it is safe, and since it's mirrored people can't look into the home. At the same time light shines through the opaque glass on the interior and it's always beneficial to have more sources of natural light inside the home.

These are the types of remodeling that aren't necessarily grand in scale, but make a huge difference in terms of curb appeal as well as safety. Manufacturers are getting more and more creative with their front door styles so this is a project that should be making its way back up the Cost vs Value report in the coming years.