We have recently moved to NW Indiana, into a 25-year-old home. The entrance to the home faces south. The porch is covered entirely. In addition, there is a huge tree in the front providing a great deal of shade in the summer. This actually makes the entrance quite dark.

Currently, the door is solid with no window and there is a 1/2 light in the adjoining sidelite.

Our intention is to replace this with a fiberglass door that has either full or 3/4 light in both the door and sidelite.

Here's where our questions come in. When visiting big box stores, we see Feather River, Mastercraft, Therma-Tru, and MMI. It is our understanding that if we purchase a door via the big box stores that the quality of the door will be less than if we purchase via an independent dealer. When we visit the lumber stores nearby we are encouraged to look at Therma-Tru, MMI, and Andersen.

From the reviews we have read, we are ready to dismiss Feather River and Mastercraft. I am open to all opinions that suggest otherwise.

We realize a quality door is an investment. Having said that, we want to be sure that we invest wisely.

Any suggestions, guidance as to what to avoid and what to look for would be most welcome.

Thanks,

Sandy