Here’s How to Choose the Right Exterior Door

The right entry door will boost your home’s curb appeal and security. After all, it’s one of the first things people notice about your home. A well-chosen exterior door will showcase your home’s style and – just as importantly – keep your house secure, and even more energy efficient. Here’s how to find the best door for your domain.

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Common Entry Door Types Additional Door Types Exterior Door Features & Accessories

Common Entry Door Types

When it comes to a front exterior door, there are three main options, each with their own advantages.

Additional Door Types

In addition to the three types above, there are a variety of entry door types designed to meet the specific needs of different areas of your home.

Exterior Door Features & Accessories

When choosing an exterior door, consider these features and add-on options to create a custom look, protect against the elements and improve your home’s energy efficiency.

Pre-Hung Door

A pre-hung exterior door is a complete, ready-to-install system with a door slab, hinges and an outer frame, including thresholds and weatherstripping. Most entry doors are sold this way.

Slab Door

A slab door is an unframed door without any hinges or hardware.

Sidelight

A sidelight is a panel (with or without glass) that is placed on one or both sides of a door. It can help create a custom look and can introduce more natural light into the home.

Door Transom

A transom is a decorative panel (usually glass) that goes over the top of a door. Transoms are commonly available in various shapes, including rectangles, semi-circles and ellipses.

Door Sill

A door sill is the bottom horizontal section of an exterior door frame and is a vital part of the entrance. A door sill plays a crucial role in sealing the door against water and air infiltration.

Brickmould

This moulding is used around the door to fill the gap between where the door and the wall of the house meet. Some entrance systems are sold with the brickmould, which is available in a wide variety of styles and widths.

Door Hardware

Door hardware comes in a variety of styles and finishes. You can boost curb appeal and functionality with hinges, knobs, knockers and locks that complement your home’s aesthetic.

ENERGY STAR

Choose ENERGY STAR exterior doors to boost your home’s energy efficiency, and reap the savings via lower utility costs. ENERGY STAR-approved products may also qualify for government rebates.

Energy-Efficient Accessories

Improve energy efficiency in any door with a PVC thermal break and weatherstripping, both of which act as barriers to stop the transfer of heat or cold. They also provide additional insulation.

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FAQs

How wide is a sliding patio door?

Sliding glass doors are all a standard 6½ feet (2 metres) tall. However, the width can vary from 5 to 6 feet (1.5 to 1.8 metres). Make sure to measure your existing doors (or planned door space) before purchasing new patio doors.

How do you replace screen door mesh?

This is a fairly easy DIY job, as long as you take the screen door off first. The work will go much easier if you lay the storm door flat on a work surface. You’ll also need to purchase new screening and spline, and a screen rolling tool. Then follow these simple steps:

Pry up a section of the old spline with a flathead screwdriver and pull it free to release the old screen.
Lay your new mesh over the screen frame and trim it with a utility knife so a few inches extend beyond the frame on all four sides.
Press the mesh into the screen channel using the convex side of your screen roller, pulling the mesh taut as you press it in all around the frame.
Starting at one corner, press the spline into the screen channel using the concave side of the screen roller to secure the screen along one side.
Repeat the spline installation for the other three sides.
Trim off the excess mesh by running your utility knife along the edge of the spline.
Reinstall your door.

Can I use an interior door for the exterior of my house?

No. Exterior doors are specifically designed for weather resistance, insulation, and security. Most interior doors do not have any of these features are not suited to external use.

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