Cuivre Steel Door Review: Is a Custom Exterior Door Worth the Investment?

What sets Cuivre steel doors apart from ordinary steel doors? Its uniqueness lies in just one aspect: the pure copper handle. However, is it worth paying extra for this special feature, along with the door's other unique features? Find out below.

What Is a Cuivre Steel Door?

The Cuivre Steel Door is an exclusive range of French style steel doors with copper handles. The word 'Cuivre' is French, meaning copper. This indicates a special feature of this range and distinguishes it from ordinary steel doors with black hinges. The Cuivre Door Range can also be made as double doors in various sizes.

Why Choose a Cuivre Steel Door

• Uniquely crafted hardware: The solid copper handle gives an elegant and premium look that cannot be imitated with black hardware.
• Authentic split glass windows: Double-pane low-e glass is so transparent that it acts as a good thermal insulator on one side, and also provides ample light on the other.
• Thermal efficiency: 6-inch thermally insulated jamb increases energy savings.
• Strength: Made of heavy iron with a 2-inch thick door leaf.

Benefits

• The copper handle is genuine, so it will not rust like other plated handles and will gradually develop a patina.
• Double-pane low-e glass brightens the entryway and regulates the temperature inside the room.
• The flat panel style looks modern, but the classic style is a bit traditional.
• Iron doors do not bend or get damaged easily.

Drawbacks

• Compared to a steel door with plain black hardware, it will cost more due to its high-quality hardware and finish.
• Like many other steel doors, the Cuivre line is not hurricane-resistant.
• A Cuivre door usually comes with just the handle and lockset, but additional hardware is available separately.
• Copper handles undergo a natural patination process, which some people prefer, while others prefer to polish them from time to time.

Cost Considerations

This line falls into the high-quality category of steel doors due to its copper handle, thick slab, and heat-insulating jamb. Its price depends on the size (60x80 vs. 60x96) and design style (classic vs. modern). The price will increase if custom sizes are required.

Installation

• Check to see if the approximate size of the doorway is suitable for a 60-inch wide double door.
• Since the door frame is 6 inches wide and insulated, make sure it will fit snugly against the wall.
• As with steel double doors, you will need at least 2-3 people to safely lower it and place it in the correct position. 
• Decide which way the door will open (left, in, or right).

Maintenance Tips

• The copper handle should be cleaned with a soft, dry cloth; use only polish to prevent rust and maintain its shine.
• Clean the glass surface with a non-corrosive, ammonia-free substance to protect the low-e coating.
• Check the weather stripping annually for any signs of corrosion.
• Retouch any scratches on the black finish of the hinges to prevent rust.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• If the copper handle comes with a lockset – be sure to check what kind of hardware it has before ordering.
• Some people prefer to over-polish the copper handle, which ruins its natural patina.
• Ordering the standard size of 60 x 80 without measuring your rough opening in advance.
• Forgetting that the Cuivre collection is not suitable for hurricane-prone areas.

Who Should Buy a Cuivre Steel Door?

The Cuivre steel door is ideal for those who want something unique, not just a simple steel door with black hardware for their entryway. It is also a good option for those looking for high-quality renovations or new construction where authentic materials are valued.

Why Buy from USA Builders Depot

USA Builders Depot offers standard-sized double steel doors in both Cuvee Classic and Cuvee Modern styles, with detailed specifications for the type of glass, jambs, and hardware used. Each door comes with the necessary hardware for installation; orders are shipped within 24 hours and delivered within 7 to 10 days, while custom-sized doors take 8 to 12 weeks to deliver after CAD drawing approval.

FAQ

What does "Cuivre" mean? Cuivre means copper in French, which refers to the distinctive copper handle used on the door.

Is the copper handle solid copper or plated? The handle is made of solid copper, which means it will have a natural patina.

What's the difference between Cuivre Classic and Cuivre Modern? Cuivre Modern has a modern look, while Cuivre Classic has a more traditional look. Both use the same copper handle and core specifications.

What sizes are available? Standard sizes are 60"x80" and 60"x96" double doors, but custom sizes are also available upon request.

Is the Cuivre steel door hurricane-rated? No. Like other steel entry doors, it is not hurricane-resistant.

Does the door come with a lockset? Please check the specific listing as different listings may have different locksets and handles.

How is the copper handle maintained? Typically, a dry cloth is sufficient to keep it shiny. You should not use any harsh chemicals if you do not want to damage the natural finish of the copper.

How long does delivery take? If the door is in stock, it will be shipped within 24 hours and will arrive within 7-10 days. Custom orders may take 8-12 weeks.

Conclusion

These qualities make the Cuivre steel door an excellent choice for its high price. This steel door will give you all the essential features of a good door – a real copper handle, insulated jamb and low-E glass.

But if you want to buy an entry door that will stand out from the crowd of steel doors with ordinary black hardware, you should consider buying a door from the Cuvier series.