Category: News

Elevating Your Space with Wood Trim: Timeless Elegance for Every Room

Posted on December 19, 2024 by - News

Wood trim has long been a cornerstone of both classic and modern design, offering a finishing touch that transforms any space from ordinary to extraordinary. At Smith & DeShields, we understand the importance of these details, which is why we provide premium wood trim options to enhance the beauty and character of your home. Whether you’re updating a single room or embarking on a full-scale renovation, wood trim is a timeless investment that delivers both style and substance.

1. The Aesthetic Appeal of Wood Trim

Wood trim adds a sense of refinement to interiors, framing walls, ceilings, and windows with subtle elegance. Its ability to create visual depth and define architectural details makes it a design essential. From sleek, minimalist styles to ornate, traditional designs, wood trim seamlessly integrates into any aesthetic, providing a sense of continuity and sophistication.

2. Types of Wood Trim

Choosing the right type of trim can completely transform your space. Here are some popular options available at Smith & DeShields:

  • Crown Molding: Adds grandeur by highlighting the transition between walls and ceilings
  • Baseboards: Protects walls while adding a polished edge to floors
  • Chair Rails: Introduces a decorative and functional element that breaks up wall space
  • Window and Door Casings: Frames openings beautifully, creating a cohesive look throughout your home
  • Wainscoting and Paneling: Adds texture and interest to walls, enhancing the overall design

3. Best Woods for Trim

The type of wood you choose for your trim will define its durability and appearance. Some of the most popular options include:

  • Oak: Known for its strength and versatility, oak offers a timeless look with beautiful grain patterns
  • Pine: A budget-friendly choice that’s lightweight and easy to work with
  • Cherry: A luxurious option with rich, warm hues that develop a stunning patina over time
  • Mahogany: Revered for its durability and deep, elegant color, perfect for high-end designs

At Smith & DeShields, we offer a variety of wood options to suit your needs, whether you’re looking for something traditional or contemporary

4. Customizing Wood Trim

One of the greatest advantages of wood trim is its customizability. With endless options for staining, painting, and finishing, you can tailor your trim to match your home’s design. Whether you prefer a natural wood finish to highlight its grain or a painted option to complement your color scheme, Smith & DeShields provides the tools and expertise to bring your vision to life.

5. Why Wood Trim is a Smart Investment

Wood trim isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s a durable, long-lasting choice that can increase your home’s value. Unlike synthetic materials, wood ages gracefully, and with proper care, it retains its beauty for decades. Additionally, well-installed and maintained wood trim can enhance the resale appeal of your home, offering potential buyers an added layer of elegance and craftsmanship.

6. Creative Uses for Wood Trim

Wood trim isn’t limited to the traditional areas of your home. Consider these innovative applications:

  • Ceiling Beams: Add rustic charm or modern flair with exposed wooden beams
  • Wall Accents: Create stunning feature walls with custom paneling or intricate trim designs
  • Built-In Shelving: Use trim to enhance the appearance of built-in bookcases or storage units
  • Decorative Niches: Frame alcoves and niches with wood trim for a sophisticated touch

Smith & DeShields

Choose from an unparalleled selection of doors, hinges, hardware, moulding and other architectural accents, as well as building supplies. Many of these are in stock, available immediately and are locally exclusive to Smith & DeShields. Quality permeates every facet of our business and it’s no different when it comes to choosing top-quality hardware.

For over 67 years, Smith & DeShields has been highly respected for evolving its product lines to match the latest technology, designs and hardware that stand the test of time. Contractors, architects, and homeowners alike are invited to experience the wide variety of quality products showcased in each of our four Florida showrooms.

Visit SmithandDeShields.com to learn more.

3 Reasons Fiberglass Doors in Naples Are Ideal for Your Coastal Home

Posted on December 2, 2024 by - News

When it comes to designing or remodeling a coastal home in Naples, every detail matters. From weather resistance to aesthetics, your choices must align with the demands of living in the Sunshine state. Fiberglass doors, available at Smith & DeShields, provide a perfect blend of form and function tailored to the needs of Naples homeowners. Here are three compelling reasons why fiberglass doors are an ideal choice for your coastal home.

1. Unmatched Durability for Coastal Conditions

Naples’ tropical climate brings with it humidity, salty air, and the occasional hurricane. Fiberglass doors stand up to these elements far better than traditional wood or steel options. Resistant to warping, cracking, and rust, fiberglass maintains its structural integrity over time, even in the face of fluctuating temperatures and intense sun exposure.

Smith & DeShields offers a curated selection of fiberglass doors that are built to withstand coastal wear and tear while providing long-lasting value. With these doors, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing your entryways are fortified against the elements.

2. Energy Efficiency to Beat the Heat

Coastal living means sun-soaked days, but it also means higher energy demands to keep your home cool. Fiberglass doors are highly energy-efficient, featuring superior insulation properties compared to wood or metal alternatives. This efficiency helps keep your interiors cool while reducing your energy bills.

Additionally, many fiberglass doors offered at Smith & DeShields come with advanced weatherstripping and insulated cores, creating a tight seal to minimize air leakage. Whether you’re relaxing indoors or entertaining guests, you’ll appreciate the comfort and cost savings these doors provide.

3. Customizable Style for Coastal Elegance

Your home’s entryway is the first impression visitors experience, and fiberglass doors deliver both functionality and style. Available in a variety of designs, finishes, and textures, these doors can mimic the natural beauty of wood without its vulnerabilities. Smith & DeShields provides customization options, allowing you to choose a door that complements your home’s coastal aesthetic, from classic to contemporary.

For homeowners seeking a touch of Naples charm, fiberglass doors can be designed to incorporate glass panels or unique finishes that enhance natural light and bring coastal beauty indoors.

Smith & DeShields

Choose from an unparalleled selection of doors, hinges, hardware, moulding and other architectural accents, as well as building supplies. Many of these are in stock, available immediately and are locally exclusive to Smith & DeShields. Quality permeates every facet of our business and it’s no different when it comes to choosing top-quality hardware.

For over 67 years, Smith & DeShields has been highly respected for evolving its product lines to match the latest technology, designs and hardware that stand the test of time. Contractors, architects, and homeowners alike are invited to experience the wide variety of quality products showcased in each of our four Florida showrooms.

Visit SmithandDeShields.com to learn more.

Choosing the Right Door Hinges for Smooth Operation

Posted on November 26, 2024 by - News

Door hinges may seem like a minor part of a door’s design, but they are essential to its functionality and lifespan. The right hinges ensure that your doors swing smoothly, stay aligned, and endure everyday use. At Smith & DeShields, we understand that high-quality hardware like door hinges can make a noticeable difference in a home’s look and performance. Here’s a closer look at why selecting the right door hinges matters and how to choose the best option for your needs.

Why Door Hinges Matter

Door hinges are the backbone of any door’s movement and stability. Poor-quality hinges can lead to squeaking, warping, and even door misalignment over time. For clients who prioritize a seamless, high-quality experience in their home, investing in the right hinges is a simple yet impactful upgrade. With proper hinges, your doors open and close smoothly, and you reduce long-term maintenance issues.

Key Factors in Choosing the Right Door Hinges

  1. Material: The material of the hinge significantly impacts its durability and resistance to wear. Stainless steel and solid brass are popular choices, especially in coastal areas like Florida, where humidity and salt can lead to rust. These materials are known for their resilience, ensuring your doors operate well for years without fear of rusting or weakening.
  2. Size and Load Capacity: Hinges need to match the weight and thickness of your doors. Heavier doors, such as solid wood or security doors, require hinges with a higher load-bearing capacity to avoid sagging. Smith & DeShields offers a range of hinges in various sizes, thereby allowing you to find options that perfectly match the weight and dimensions of your doors.
  3. Style and Aesthetics: Hinges also contribute to the aesthetic appeal of your doors. Decorative hinges, like ball-bearing or finial hinges, add an elegant touch and can complement your door’s overall look. Smith & DeShields provides a variety of finishes and styles, from classic to modern, which ensures you’ll find the perfect match for your home’s interior and exterior design.
  4. Type of Hinge: Different types of hinges suit different applications. Butt hinges are common for interior doors, providing a basic and reliable solution. For heavier or high-traffic doors, continuous or pivot hinges are often recommended for extra support and durability. If you’re looking for a specific application, such as hidden hinges for a sleek, modern look, Smith & DeShields can guide you in selecting the most suitable type.

Enhancing Home Value with High-Quality Hinges

High-quality hinges not only improve door functionality but also enhance the overall value of your home. They provide longevity and reduce the need for frequent repairs, which is particularly valuable to homeowners. When clients choose top-tier hardware from Smith & DeShields, they’re investing in lasting quality and performance.

Smith & DeShields

Choose from an unparalleled selection of doors, hinges, hardware, moulding and other architectural accents, as well as building supplies. Many of these are in stock, available immediately and are locally exclusive to Smith & DeShields. Quality permeates every facet of our business and it’s no different when it comes to choosing top-quality hardware.

For over 67 years, Smith & DeShields has been highly respected for evolving its product lines to match the latest technology, designs and hardware that stand the test of time. Contractors, architects, and homeowners alike are invited to experience the wide variety of quality products showcased in each of our four Florida showrooms.

Visit SmithandDeShields.com to learn more.

Custom Doors: Tailored Solutions for Unique Needs

Posted on October 28, 2024 by - News

Of the many design elements that can really elevate the look and feel of a home, few hold a candle to the front door. Often more form than functional, doors set the tone for a home’s interior. At Smith & DeShields, we appreciate that each project is different, which is why we offer custom doors for individual needs and aesthetic tastes.

1. Beautiful Doors: Inside and Out

First impressions are usually pretty lasting, so your front door should be one that makes a statement. At Smith & DeShields, we carry a vast array of doors to meet any need: interior or exterior, simple or ornate, and even impact-resistant. We know that as much as aesthetics are important, your front door needs to stand the test of time and weather, not to mention intruders. That’s why all of our exterior doors are Florida building code compliant, providing both beauty and security. We work with only top-quality vendors to make sure our doors are crafted to the highest standards.

2. Custom Designed to Fit Any Style

Whether it’s an extra-special entry with a stately front door or a stylish modern door to complement your interior space, custom doors can match most any design vision. Unlike their store-bought cousins, custom doors are made with utmost care and attention to detail. This allows both the homeowner and the designer to select a perfect combination of materials, finishes, and hardware. From intricately carved classic wooden doors to modern glass-panel designs, a custom door brings your architectural vision to fruition.

3. Functional Solutions for Unique Spaces

Not every house or business has a uniform layout. Custom doors can be designed and created to fit non-traditional spaces. be it an unusually sized entryway or an asymmetrical room. Choose between a large sliding door in order to make the room a bit more modern by creating an open-concept space or use a custom-sized door in unique materials for your attic or loft. Nearly any door challenge can be overcome by a made-to-order solution.

4. More Durability and Efficiency

When it comes to custom doors, increased efficiency, durability, and functionality all come into play. At Smith & DeShields, our custom doors are made with the finest materials that guarantee their effectiveness against the elements and wear and tear. Whether the concern lies in humidity, wind impact, or other extreme weather conditions, rest assured we have a solution that’s just right for you.

5. Perfect Fit for Any Project

Perhaps the most profound attribute of custom doors lies in the fact that they can fit nearly every need. Whether it’s new construction, a renovation, or restoration of a historic home, a custom door provides a tailored solution for both style and functionality.

Smith & DeShields

Choose from an unparalleled selection of doors, hardware, moulding and other architectural accents, as well as building supplies. Many of these are in stock, available immediately and are locally exclusive to Smith & DeShields. Quality permeates every facet of our business and it’s no different when it comes to choosing top-quality hardware.

For over 67 years, Smith & DeShields has been well-respected for evolving its product lines to match the latest technology, designs and hardware that stand the test of time. Contractors, architects, and homeowners alike are invited to experience the wide variety of quality products showcased in each of our four Florida showrooms.

Visit SmithandDeShields.com to learn more.

Comparing 3 Moulding Materials: Wood, MDF, and PVC

Posted on October 14, 2024 by - News

Choosing the proper moulding for one’s home is more than simply aesthetics. Materials utilized will greatly influence the durability, functionality, and the aesthetics of the final product. Here at Smith & DeShields, many options are available regarding mouldings, with the most popular are those made from wood, MDF, and PVC. The strange and useful variations that each one presents make it important to understand the differences between them. How, precisely, do these materials compare?

1. Wood Moulding

Wood has always been a classic material that adds warmth and a touch of nature to every room. Wood works really well in intricate designs and custom profiles, and given its versatility is unmatched. These mouldings come in many species, with pine being the most common, although oak and poplar are also used. Mouldings can be stained or painted. While wood provides strength and authenticity, it has its drawbacks, too, in the form of higher costs compared to other materials. Wood may also require regular maintenance in order to avoid warping or damage due to moisture, especially in highly humid areas.

Pros: Natural beauty, durable, customizable, can be stained or painted.
Cons: Higher cost, susceptible to warping or moisture damage, requires more maintenance.

2. MDF Moulding

MDF. (medium-density fiberboard) is a common substitute for wood. It is known for its smooth, even finish. MDF is comprised of wood fibers combined with resin and thereby tends to be quite easy and inexpensive to work with. MDF moulding is normally pre-primed to save time in finishing and is great for painted applications. It is less durable than wood and has some vulnerability to water damage. Therefore it is not the best choice for bathrooms and other areas prone to moisture.

Pros: Cost-efficient, smooth surface, ideal for painted finishes, easy to install.
Cons: Less durable than wood, prone to water damage, not ideal for high-moisture areas.

3. PVC Molding

PVC moulding is a type of moulding made from a solid plastic material perfect for wet areas, such as bathrooms and kitchens, and even outdoors. Unlike wood and MDF, it will not rot, become infested with insects, or warp, and hence, requires less maintenance. It can be painted, though many enjoy the sleek, plain white finish it comes in. While vinyl is more resilient, it lacks the organic warmth of wood, and for some design aesthetics, a homeowner may desire a more traditional look for their home.

Pros: Moisture-resistant, durable, low maintenance, rot- and insect-resistant.
Cons: Less traditional look, limited finish options, can be more expensive than MDF.

Smith & DeShields

Choose from an unparalleled selection of doors, hardware, moulding and other architectural accents, as well as building supplies. Many of these are in stock, available immediately and are locally exclusive to Smith & DeShields. Quality permeates every facet of our business and it’s no different when it comes to choosing top-quality hardware.

For over 67 years, Smith & DeShields has been well-respected for evolving its product lines to match the latest technology, designs and hardware that stand the test of time. Contractors, architects, and homeowners alike are invited to experience the wide variety of quality products showcased in each of our four Florida showrooms. Visit SmithandDeShields.com to learn more.

Weatherstripping: Protecting Your Home from the Elements

Posted on September 28, 2024 by - News

Weatherstripping is one of those often-overlooked but undeniably significant tasks in staving off nature’s unpredictable elements’ effects on your home. Bracing for an unexpected storm, excessive summer heat or even just improving energy efficiency; whatever the case may be, weatherstripping is a highly recommended task in safeguarding one’s home.


What is Weatherstripping?

Weatherstripping includes sealing openings in doors and windows to prevent penetration of outside air, moisture, or even pests into your home. It is an essential part of any insulation system in the house meant to maintain a constant indoor air temperature and reduce drafts, thereby cutting energy expenses.

Types of Weatherstripping

The materials used in weatherstripping are varied and are meant for different areas of the house. The following are some of the general types one can find on the market.

Foam Tape: The degree of difficulty to install is reasonable and is good for sealing gaps around windows and doors. Materials utilized are largely rubber or vinyl, making them good insulators for small gap spaces.

V-Strips: This form of seal is best utilized on the edges of windows and doors. They are very flexible and will create a tight seal when a door or window is closed thereby keeping drafts and moisture out.

Sweeps: Fitted at the bottoms of the doors, door sweeps prevent air from drafting in under the doors. The strips of rubber or plastic can be quite handy for high wind or rainy areas and can be applied to virtually any type of door.

Weatherstripping Felt: This is a low-budget solution for those doors and windows which are underutilized. Although felt is less durable than other materials, it is reasonably good in keeping drafts out and is easy to install.

Why is Weatherstripping Important?

Protection of your house with good weatherstripping offers numerous advantages:

Energy Efficiency: Weatherstripping seals many gaps and openings around windows and doors to prevent heated or cooled air inside your home from escaping. This will make a house more energy-efficient and help save on utility bills.

Moisture Prevention: Weatherstripping prevents rainfall and humidity from penetrating your home thereby keeping it dry. By doing so, it decreases the potential for mold and mildew in your home.

Pest Control: Small gaps around windows and doors are prime entry points for insects and rodents. Weatherstripping can help keep unwanted pests out of your home.

When Should You Replace Weatherstripping?

The best weatherstripping in the world will wear out with time, especially if fluctuations in temperature are excessive or if your area is prone to storms. All of these signs will demonstrate clearly enough that you need replacement of your weatherstripping:

  • Cracked or peeling strip
  • The struggle to close a door or window
  • Noticeable draft around the doors or windows
  • Increased energy bills seemingly without reason

Smith & DeShields

Choose from an unparalleled selection of doors, hardware, moulding and other architectural accents, as well as building supplies. Many of these are in stock, available immediately and are locally exclusive to Smith & DeShields. Quality permeates every facet of our business and it’s no different when it comes to choosing top-quality doors and accompanying hardware.

For over 67 years, Smith & DeShields has been well-respected for evolving its product lines to match the latest technology, designs and hardware that stand the test of time. Contractors, architects, and homeowners alike are invited to experience the wide variety of quality products showcased in each of our four Florida showrooms. Visit SmithandDeShields.com to learn more.

French Doors: A Gateway to Vintage Elegance

Posted on September 14, 2024 by - News

Few design elements greet a home with an elevated look and feel quite like the timeless charm of French doors. Glass-paned doors allow for natural light to flow freely between rooms while offering a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces. At Smith & DeShields, French doors are not just a functional feature but a statement in style, effortlessly pulling together vintage elegance and modern practicality.


Whether it involves renovating a single room or updating your entire home, adding French doors creates that touch of classic beauty to bring both interior and exterior aesthetics up several notches.

What is a French Door?

French doors, also known as French windows, are made of double panels framed with a number of glass panes. Conventionally hinged and designed to open either toward the inside of the home or the outside, these doors give the opening an airy, wide feeling. French doors are very popular for patios, living rooms, and the like.

While the name depicts a France origin, the actual design has its roots in the 16th-century European Renaissance. It is actually the Renaissance emphasis on symmetry, proportion, and light that led to the design of French doors, and it is this same emphasis that contributes to making them desirable today.

Why Choose French Doors?

  • Timeless Aesthetic Appeal is probably the best reason to install French doors. The vintage appeal of the French door works in both traditional and modern settings and thus always remains appropriate and stylish for any homeowner looking to add style and class to any room. A combination of wood, metal, and glass allows French doors to function both as a functional feature and a design focal point.
  • More Natural Light. French doors have long been synonymous with bringing natural light into the home. Their large glass panels maximize sunlight, brightening up your living area, thereby making it more interesting to your guests. Indeed, it is useful in rooms that lack windows or houses that seek a more open and continuous indoor-outdoor setting.
  • Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Flow: In homes with patios, balconies, or garden areas, French doors provide a great transition between indoor and outdoor living areas. They can extend your living area when opened, creating a seamless flow between environments to entertain guests or simply take in views.
  • Variety of Style: French doors come in a wide variety of fashions and materials that can be made to suit the thematic of your home. From intricately crafted wooden-framed doors to sleek metal frames with modern lines, there is a French door design that’s just right for you. Furthermore, these doors come in many different types of glass, such as clear, frosted, or stained glass, adding more character and personalization.
  • Added Value to the Property: Other than their aesthetic and functional values, French doors can add a lot of value to your house. French doors make rooms look much larger and more luxurious. In addition, the outside world opens up better, which is something that will always matter when marketing your home.

French Doors: Not Just for Patios

French doors are typically associated with external entries to patios or gardens, but it’s actually quite a versatile design option that works equally well internally. Here’s where you can insert French doors on the inside of your home:

  • Between Living Room and Dining Room: Creates an open feel between formal spaces, with the ability to separate when needed. French doors allow for closing off of rooms but retain visual flow.
  • Home Office: For any home office, French doors provide just the right amount of openness and privacy. You can keep a quiet room and still let filtered natural light in from other rooms.
  • As Closet Doors: Want to make your walk-in closet take on a boutique-style room? Try installing French doors with frosted or patterned glass to add an element of elegance and a touch of luxury.

Choosing the Right French Door for your House

If you want to choose French doors, it is good to ensure a suitable balance between style and functionality. A few tips to consider when choosing the right option include:

  • Materials: French doors are made of various materials, such as wood, aluminum, and fiberglass. The traditional and warm look comes from the use of wood, while the more modern and industrial aesthetic comes from metal frames. Fiberglass doors are highly durable, add to energy efficiency, and are quite practical for exterior usage.
  • Glass: Clear glass is perfect for letting in the maximum amount of natural light, but if there are problems with privacy, then the beauty of the door can be maintained with frosted or textured glass.
  • Door Swing: Whether your doors open inward or outward will depend on the conditions. While saving space indoors is a big positive for outward-swinging doors, inward-swinging doors do tend to give a more classic feel.

Smith & DeShields

Choose from an unparalleled selection of doors, hardware, moulding and other architectural accents, as well as building supplies. Many of these are in stock, available immediately and are locally exclusive to Smith & DeShields. Quality permeates every facet of our business and it’s no different when it comes to choosing top-quality hardware.

For over 67 years, Smith & DeShields has been well-respected for evolving its product lines to match the latest technology, designs and hardware that stand the test of time. Contractors, architects, and homeowners alike are invited to experience the wide variety of quality products showcased in each of our four Florida showrooms. Visit SmithandDeShields.com to learn more.

Choosing Moulding for Open Floor Plans with Smith & DeShields

Posted on August 14, 2024 by - News

Open floor plans are a fan favorite for modern homes, offering ease of movement between living areas. Choosing the best moulding in such wide-open spaces can be a bit daunting. But Smith & DeShields, with its deep understanding of high-quality mouldings and millwork, lays down insightful recommendations to choose the perfect moulding for your open floor plan.

Understanding the Role of Moulding

Moulding has both functional and aesthetic appeal. It can help describe a space, add some architectural interest, and finally give your home a finished look. In an open floor plan, moulding will help divide the spaces without having to use any walls, hence the look will be coherent and polished.

Baseboards: Foundation of Style

Most people underestimate the crucial role that baseboards play in a room. When you’re considering an open-concept look, baseboards are one way to marry the spaces together. Reach for something simple and linear, like tall baseboards, to add an element of sophistication.

At Smith & DeShields, there’s a world of possibilities for baseboards, fully customizable for your ideal home’s design.

Baseboard Shopping Tips:

  • Height: 5- to 7-inch-high baseboards are optimal. They help create a more massive look and are well suited, especially in open places
  • Style: Choose a simple, classic profile designed to critically bond with the unit’s other components
  • Material: Durable hard-wearing material like MDF or hardwood is preferred for its longevity and serviceability.

Crown Moulding: A Touch of Opulence and Depth

Crown moulding in your open floor plan can make your room look richer and more luxurious. Giving dimension to your walls and ceiling; your eyes naturally continue to move throughout the space, visually flowing upward.

 Tips for Choosing Crown Moulding:

  • Scale: Choose a moulding sized in proportion to the ceiling. More detailed profiles can be selected for higher ceilings
  • Style: Select a design with elements that complement the style of your home: traditional, contemporary, or a blend of both
  • Installation: Paying close attention to where the crown is installed with a high level of skill. When elements fit together seamlessly, the result is a great appearance.

Door and Window Casings: Focusing the View

The casing around doors and windows frames your view. In an open concept with free-flowing space, the continuation of styling within the casing will prevent the appearance from appearing choppy.

Choosing Door and Window Casings:

  • Consistency: Stay consistent on style and materials with all casings.
  • Width: If you are going to select a wide width of casings, then make them one that will make a true statement (between 3-4″)
  • Detail: Select profiles that are a little more detailed. Not so much that it drives a lot of activity, but enough so that you add a little visual interest

Chair Rails and Wainscoting: Defining Spaces

Chair rails and wainscoting are structured methods of defining different functional areas of an open floor plan, for instance, a dining area off of a living room. They also provide texture and visual interest in the walls.

Tips on Choosing Chair Rails and Wainscoting:

  • Height: Chair rails are typically installed 32-36 inches from the floor. Wainscoting can be any height you like
  • Design: Choose designs that enhance the overall design of your residence. Raised panel wainscoting is much more conventional than flat panel wainscoting and fits with conventional areas better
  • Color: Coat or tarnish the wainscoting with a shade that breaks against the shade of the wall to be highlighted; or, use a shade that blends with the color of the wall for a much more understated look

Combining Moulding with Interior Design

Moulding should complement, not compete with the rest of your home’s interior. Smith & DeShields recommends that the colors of the mouldings should match the walls, trim, and furnishings to create a harmonious feel. For a continuous flow, paint the moulding the same color as the wall. To achieve contrast, choose a complementary color that highlights the architectural details.

Smith & DeShields

Choose from an unparalleled selection of doors, hardware, moulding and other architectural accents, as well as building supplies. Many of these are in stock, available immediately and are locally exclusive to Smith & DeShields. Quality permeates every facet of our business and it’s no different when it comes to choosing top-quality hardware.

For over 67 years, Smith & DeShields has been well-respected for evolving its product lines to match the latest technology, designs and hardware that stand the test of time. Contractors, architects, and homeowners alike are invited to experience the wide variety of quality products showcased in each of our four Florida showrooms.

Visit SmithandDeShields.com to learn more.

Wooden vs. Composite Doors: What’s Best for Florida?

Posted on July 25, 2024 by - News

Choosing the right kind of door for your home in Florida is important, considering the unique climatic and weather conditions it endures. Two of the most popular kinds of doors are wood and composite, each with their share of pros and cons. Let’s explore the important differences between wood and composite doors so that you can understand which one will go best with your Florida home.

Wooden Doors – Evergreen in Style

Pros:

  • Aesthetic Appeal: Wood doors just scream classic beauty. They are offered in different styles and finishes, so it can easily match your home’s style.
  • Strength and Durability: The more solid the wooden door, the stronger it is. Mahogany and oak can withstand minor impacts and very durable when it comes to everyday wear and tear.
  • Thermal Insulation: Wood is an insulating material, making it highly effective regarding thermal energy. This will help keep your place cool during the summer and warm during the winter, thereby decreasing your energy expenses.

Disadvantages:

  • Maintenance: Wood doors must be regularly maintained to protect them from the elements. Painting, staining or polyurethaning is necessary to prevent wood warping, cracking, and rotting from the high humidity and salt air that Florida experiences.
  • Cost: Good quality wood doors are expensive compared to other materials. The cost needed for its ongoing maintenance contributes to the overall cost as well.

Composite Doors: The Latest Innovation

Advantages of composite doors:

  • Strength: Composite doors are made of a combination of materials which makes them very robust and resistant to warping, cracking, and rotting.
  • Low Maintenance: Unlike wood doors, composite doors require very little in the way of maintenance. The materials used to make these doors do not need painting or regular staining. They also resist moisture and damage from insects.
  • Energy Efficiency: The construction achieved through the multiple layers in a composit door exhibits excellent insulation features against the exterior environment. This makes it easier to maintain indoor temperatures thereby lowering your energy bills.
  • Cost-Effective: While the one-time cost of composite doors is similar to that of the best wood doors, it still proves to be cost-effective in the end due to lower maintenance costs.

Disadvantages:

  • Aesthetic Limitations: While composite doors are made to look like wood, they lack that true natural feel you get from grains in real wood.
  • Environmental Impact: While the option of composite doors offers the use of synthetic materials, it is not as environmentally friendly as natural wood. However, several manufacturers are now using recycled material in the production of their products to make them more eco-friendly.

Smith & DeShields

Choose from an unparalleled selection of doors, hardware, moulding and other architectural accents, as well as building supplies. Many of these are in stock, available immediately and are locally exclusive to Smith & DeShields. Quality permeates every facet of our business and it’s no different when it comes to choosing top-quality hardware.

For over 67 years, Smith & DeShields has been well-respected for evolving its product lines to match the latest technology, designs and hardware that stand the test of time. Contractors, architects, and homeowners alike are invited to experience the wide variety of quality products showcased in each of our four Florida showrooms. Visit SmithandDeShields.com to learn more.

Maintaining and Caring for Your Home’s Hardware in Florida

Posted on July 9, 2024 by - News

There are plenty of great reasons to live in Florida, from the beautiful weather to the stunning coastal scenery. On the other hand, however, salty and humid air often proves pretty hard on your home hardware. Proper maintenance and care should be ensured so it remains functional for a long time.

Here’s how to do daily living in Florida while maintaining and caring for your home hardware:

Clean as Regularly as You Can

Of the simplest ways to keep your hardware in prime working order is through a regular cleaning schedule. There’s a good probability that salt, dust, and dirt may already be impacting the metal, corroding it and wearing it down. Metal hardware cleaning should be done with a mild soap solution, followed by a good rinsing with clean water. Dry the hardware meticulously to prevent contact with moisture, which will attract rust.

Lubrication

Keep your hardware lubricated to ensure it continues to run smoothly. Hinges, locks, and other moving hardware are best lightly treated with a silicone-based lubricant. Avoid oil-based lubricants, as they tend to gather further dirt and grime. Lubricate your hardware every few months or as needed. This will help ensure fluid operation and prevent wear and tear.

Protection From Corrosion

Florida’s humid climate and salty air, can encourage unwanted corrosion. Consider applying a protective coating or finish to your hardware. Either a clear lacquer or wax finish provides protection against moisture and salt. Heed the manufacturer’s instructions for reapplication to maintain effectiveness.

Choosing the Right Materials

Choose material that is more resistant to corrosion or wear when selecting hardware for your home. Stainless steel, brass, and bronze are excellent materials for Florida’s moist climate. These metals are very strong and rust-resistant; hence, they can also be installed outdoors and in high moisture areas.

Regular Check

Perform regular inspections to detect problems before they become nightmares. Inspect your hardware for signs of wear, corrosion, or damage. Be especially vigilant around high-moisture areas such as bathroom fixtures and exterior door handles. If you find a problem, fix it right away—for two important reasons: to prevent further damage, and to keep your hardware working smoothly.

Replacing Worn or Damaged Hardware

Even with proper care, some hardware is bound to wear out or sustain damage. In such a case, ensure prompt replacement. Continuing to use worn-out or damaged hardware may predispose your home to safety and security issues. Ensure that replacements are high-quality and designed for Florida’s climate.

Specialized Care of Particular Hardware

Not all hardware requires uniform care. For instance,

  • Do not forget to clean the door hardware—hinges, locks, and handles—at regular intervals, with proper lubrication. Remember to check for loose screws and tighten them whenever necessary
  • Window hardware: Keep window tracks free of debris. Lubricate the sliding mechanisms to prevent sticking
  • Cabinet hardware: Be sure to clean cabinet handles and hinges often to remove dirt and grease. Tighten any loose screws
  • Outdoor Hardware: Apply a rust-resistant coating on outdoor hardware. This would include gate latches and light fixtures. Make sure to check for signs of corrosion regularly and address them before they become big problems

Smith & DeShields

Choose from an unparalleled selection of doors, hardware, moulding and other architectural accents, as well as building supplies. Many of these are in stock, available immediately and are locally exclusive to Smith & DeShields. Quality permeates every facet of our business and it’s no different when it comes to choosing top-quality hardware.

For over 67 years, Smith & DeShields has been well-respected for evolving its product lines to match the latest technology, designs and hardware that stand the test of time. Contractors, architects, and homeowners alike are invited to experience the wide variety of quality products showcased in each of our four Florida showrooms.

Visit SmithandDeShields.com to learn more.