Gordon Cellar Doors vs Bilco: Which Is Better

As a seasoned homeowner and contractor, I’ve had the opportunity to work on a multitude of house projects, leaving a trail of satisfied clients in my wake. In this journey, one aspect that often comes into play is the selection of cellar doors – a critical yet frequently overlooked component in home improvement.

Cellar doors, though not always at the forefront of home design conversations, play a pivotal role in ensuring safety, accessibility, and the overall aesthetic of your home. They are the gatekeepers to what lies beneath your house, be it a wine collection, storage space, or an additional living area.

In this article, we will compare Gordon Cellar Doors and Bilco, both of which stand as giants in the cellar door industry. We’ll look at their product ranges, installation ease, pricing, customer reviews, and more.

Overview of Gordon Cellar Doors

Gordon Cellar Doors specializes in offering a wide array of cellar door options that cater to diverse homeowner needs. Their product line is characterized by a focus on customization, allowing clients to choose from various sizes, styles, and finishes.

The range includes steel cellar doors known for their strength and resilience, ideal for withstanding harsh weather conditions. Gordon also offers a selection of insulated doors, which are perfect for maintaining temperature control in cellars used for wine storage or as additional living spaces.

Their doors are available in different coatings, from standard galvanized finishes to more refined powder-coated options, blending durability with aesthetic appeal.

Overview of Bilco’s

Bilco, on the other hand, is recognized for its innovative and practical cellar door solutions. Their products are engineered for ease of use and quick installation, appealing to both DIY enthusiasts and professionals.

The Bilco range includes classic steel cellar doors, known for their robust construction and longevity. They also offer basement egress solutions, which are essential for safety and code compliance in many regions.

Bilco’s doors are designed with functionality in mind, featuring weather-resistant coatings and energy-efficient properties. Their product line is diverse, accommodating various architectural styles and homeowner preferences.

Comparison of Gordon Cellar Doors And Bilco

When comparing the two brands, several key differences emerge in terms of material, durability, and design:

1. Material

Both Gordon and Bilco primarily use high-quality steel in their cellar doors, ensuring strength and security. However, Gordon’s focus on customization allows for more varied material choices and finishes, while Bilco emphasizes standardized, tried-and-true materials.

2. Durability

Durability is a hallmark of both brands, with Gordon offering robust construction tailored to individual preferences and Bilco providing time-tested designs known for their resilience. Bilco’s doors are particularly noted for their weather resistance and ability to withstand heavy usage.

3. Design

Design-wise, Gordon stands out with its customizable options, allowing homeowners to match their cellar doors with their home’s aesthetic. Bilco, conversely, offers practical and functional designs that focus on safety, compliance, and ease of installation. Bilco’s designs are often seen as more utilitarian, catering to those prioritizing functionality over custom aesthetics.

Pros and Cons of Gordon Cellar Doors and Bilco

Gordon Cellar Doors

Pros

1. Customization: Offers a variety of sizes, styles, and finishes to match specific homeowner preferences and house aesthetics.
2. Durability: Known for robust construction, especially in their steel doors, ensuring long-term resilience.
3. Aesthetic Appeal: Provides options for more decorative and visually appealing designs compared to standard doors.
4. Insulation Options: Availability of insulated doors, ideal for temperature-sensitive cellar uses.

Cons

1. Complex Installation: Customization options can lead to more complex installation processes, often requiring professional assistance.
2. Cost: Custom features and high-quality materials can make Gordon doors more expensive than standard options.
3. Limited Pre-Made Options: Focus on customization might limit the availability of ready-to-install, standard-sized doors.

Bilco Cellar Doors

Pros

1. Ease of Installation: Designed for straightforward, DIY-friendly installation, suitable for homeowners with basic handyman skills.
2. Practical Design: Functional and utilitarian designs focusing on ease of use and safety.
3. Durability: Constructed to be durable and weather-resistant, suitable for various climates and heavy usage.
4. Egress Solutions: Offers basement egress doors, ensuring compliance with safety regulations.

Cons

1. Limited Customization: Fewer options for customization in terms of style and size compared to Gordon.
2. Aesthetic Variety: Primarily functional designs might not cater to homeowners seeking more decorative options.
3. Standardized Options: Focus on functionality might not suit specific architectural styles or unique cellar entrances.

In conclusion, Gordon Cellar Doors excels in customization and aesthetic appeal but may require more investment and professional installation. Bilco, on the other hand, offers ease of installation and practicality, with a focus on standard, durable designs at the expense of customization and decorative variety.