Once homeowners decide they want a better front door, the next question is usually material. Aluminium and timber both have strong appeal, but they suit different priorities and situations.
This article explains the difference in plain language, focusing on how each option feels to live with rather than technical specifications. If you are still at the early decision stage, it helps to start with the main homeowners guide to better front doors.
Why material choice matters more at the front door
Front doors are used constantly. You touch them, lock them, open them for airflow and interact with them when visitors arrive. The material you choose influences
- How the door feels to use
- How much maintenance it needs
- How it looks as it ages
Because a multi-function front door is designed to be used more often than a traditional door, these differences become more noticeable over time.
Aluminium front doors in everyday life
Aluminium doors tend to appeal to homeowners who want simplicity and consistency.
In daily use, aluminium doors
- Hold their shape well in changing weather
- Require very little maintenance
- Keep a clean, stable feel over time
They suit people who prefer a “fit and forget” approach and do not want to worry about coatings or refinishing.
In the Adelaide region, aluminium Air Flow Doors are made to measure and installed as a complete solution, which can simplify the process.
Timber front doors in everyday life
Timber doors appeal to homeowners who value warmth and character at the entry.
Living with a timber door means
- Accepting some ongoing care
- Enjoying a natural, familiar feel
- Having flexibility with finishes
Timber Air Flow Doors are supplied in standard sizes and can be installed by your local carpenter, making them suitable for homes across Australia.
Maintenance expectations
Material choice should match your tolerance for maintenance
- Aluminium generally needs only occasional cleaning
- Timber needs periodic inspection and re-coating
Neither option is wrong, but mismatched expectations often lead to disappointment.
This is explored further in front door maintenance and long-term ownership.
Which option suits your home
Aluminium often suits
- Homes with higher exposure to weather
- Owners who prioritise low maintenance
- Projects where made-to-measure installation matters
Timber often suits
- Homes with a traditional or warm aesthetic
- Owners comfortable with routine upkeep
- Interstate projects using local trades
If you are unsure, discussing how you actually use your front door day to day can clarify the decision.
The decision most people don’t expect
Many homeowners find that how the door feels to use matters more than how it looks on day one. This lived experience is described in what it’s like to live with a secure ventilated front door.