A Homeowner’s Guide to Exterior Doors and Associated Products
Exterior doors are a key component of your home’s security, Energy Efficiency, and visual appeal. They not only create a first impression but also offer functionality, such as protecting your home from weather and providing access to outdoor spaces. With various door types available, including traditional hinged doors, Sliding Doors, and modern accordion-style doors like a NanaWall system, it’s important to select the right style and material to suit your needs.
This article explores different types of exterior doors, including the increasingly popular accordion doors, along with associated products and materials to help you make an informed choice.
Types of Exterior Doors
1. Wood Doors
Wood doors are timeless and bring warmth and elegance to any home. They are available in various wood species, such as Mahogany, oak, and Pine, and can be custom-stained or painted.
Uses:
Main entry doors
Custom, decorative entryways
Benefits:
Beautiful, natural aesthetic
Customizable with Stain or paint
Excellent insulation properties
Considerations:
Wood doors require regular maintenance to prevent warping, cracking, and weather damage. They are also more expensive than other materials and need refinishing to maintain their appearance over time.
2. Steel Doors
Steel doors are highly durable, providing superior security and insulation. They are typically constructed with a foam core covered by a steel outer layer.
Uses:
Main entry doors
Garage entry doors
Benefits:
Very secure and durable
Energy-efficient
Affordable and low maintenance
Considerations:
Steel doors can dent or scratch, and if the finish is damaged, they may rust. While strong, they offer fewer design options compared to wood or Fiberglass.
3. Fiberglass Doors
Fiberglass doors are popular for their low maintenance, durability, and ability to mimic the appearance of wood. They resist dents, warping, and moisture damage, making them ideal for harsh climates.
Uses:
Main entry doors
Homes in coastal or humid environments
Benefits:
Extremely durable and weather-resistant
Low maintenance
Can be made to look like wood
Considerations:
Fiberglass doors can be more expensive than steel doors, but their longevity and low upkeep often justify the cost.
4. Glass Doors
Glass doors or doors with large glass inserts offer natural light and modern design. They can range from fully glass to half-glass designs and often feature decorative or privacy glass.
Uses:
Patio Doors
Front entry doors with glass accents
Benefits:
Brings in natural light
Creates a sleek, modern look
Available with energy-efficient double or triple-paned glass
Considerations:
Glass doors may reduce privacy and security unless reinforced or paired with laminated or Tempered Glass. They may also require more frequent cleaning and offer lower insulation unless specialized glass is used.
5. Sliding Patio Doors
Sliding patio doors are a space-saving option for accessing decks, patios, and outdoor spaces. They provide large glass panels that offer unobstructed views and easy access to outdoor areas.
Uses:
Patios and balconies
Outdoor entrances to decks or gardens
Benefits:
Saves space as the doors slide rather than swing
Large glass panels offer natural light
Provides a modern, open look
Considerations:
Sliding doors may require regular maintenance to keep the track free of dirt and debris. They can also be less secure than hinged doors without additional locking mechanisms.
6. French Doors
French doors feature glass panels extending the length of the door, often used in pairs to create a wide opening. They are typically used to connect indoor living spaces to patios or gardens.
Uses:
Patios and balconies
Main entryways
Benefits:
Elegant, traditional design
Allows natural light to enter
Can be used as an indoor-outdoor transition
Considerations:
French doors require more space to open fully and may need additional security features, especially if they have large glass panels.
7. Accordion Doors (NanaWall or Folding Glass Walls)
Accordion-style doors, such as NanaWall systems, are a modern option that provides a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces. These doors fold open like an accordion, allowing for expansive, unobstructed views and access to the outdoors.
Uses:
High-end patios, decks, or balconies
Homes with a focus on indoor-outdoor living
Benefits:
Maximizes the opening to outdoor spaces
Provides a modern, sleek design
Offers energy-efficient options with Insulated Glass
Considerations:
Accordion doors are more expensive than traditional doors due to the complexity of the system and materials. Installation requires precise measurements, and regular maintenance is needed to keep the sliding and folding mechanisms working smoothly. These systems may also need reinforced framing to support the larger glass panels.
Associated Products and Materials
1. Door Frames and Jambs
Door frames and jambs provide the structural support for exterior doors. Properly installed frames are essential for the door to function smoothly and securely.
Uses:
Supports door structure
Provides a base for Hinges and lock systems
Benefits:
Made from durable materials like wood, steel, or composite
Essential for maintaining energy efficiency by reducing drafts
Considerations:
Frames and jambs must be installed securely to ensure the door operates smoothly. Frames can warp over time if exposed to moisture, so proper Weatherproofing is crucial.
2. Weatherstripping
Weatherstripping helps seal gaps between the door and the Frame, preventing drafts, moisture, and pests from entering the home. It is critical for energy efficiency and insulation.
Uses:
Seals the door to prevent drafts and moisture intrusion
Enhances energy efficiency
Benefits:
Reduces heating and cooling costs
Easy to install and replace
Available in foam, rubber, or felt
Considerations:
Weatherstripping wears out over time and may need replacement, especially in high-traffic areas or homes exposed to extreme weather.
3. Thresholds and Door Sweeps
Thresholds and door sweeps seal the gap between the bottom of the door and the floor. This is important for preventing drafts, water infiltration, and pests.
Uses:
Seals the door at the base
Improves energy efficiency and weatherproofing
Benefits:
Prevents drafts and water from entering the home
Available in aluminum, wood, or Vinyl
Considerations:
Door sweeps and thresholds can wear out over time, particularly in high-traffic areas. Regular inspection and replacement may be required to maintain a proper seal.
4. Locks and Deadbolts
Locks and deadbolts are crucial for securing exterior doors. A high-quality Deadbolt adds an extra layer of security and can be paired with modern keyless or Smart Lock options.
Uses:
Secures exterior doors
Adds protection against forced entry
Benefits:
Deadbolts provide superior security
Keyless and smart locks offer convenience
Can be integrated with home security systems
Considerations:
Deadbolts should be installed with a reinforced Strike Plate for additional security. Smart locks require regular updates and maintenance to ensure they function properly.
5. Glass Inserts
Glass inserts can be added to many types of doors, from traditional front doors to sliding and accordion doors. Decorative, frosted, or energy-efficient glass can enhance the door’s appearance and performance.
Uses:
Enhances aesthetics and light entry
Adds decorative elements to entry doors
Benefits:
Allows natural light to enter
Double- or triple-paned glass improves energy efficiency
Decorative glass provides privacy without sacrificing style
Considerations:
Glass inserts may reduce the overall insulation of the door if they are not energy-efficient. Laminated or tempered glass can increase security by making the door harder to break.
Further Reading
Wrap-Up
Exterior doors not only serve as the gateway to your home but also contribute to your home's energy efficiency, security, and overall aesthetic. From traditional wood doors to modern accordion-style doors like NanaWall systems, selecting the right door depends on your specific needs, style preferences, and climate. Each type of door comes with its associated products like frames, weatherstripping, and locks, which ensure the door functions properly and provides long-lasting durability.
By choosing the right exterior door and working with a professional installer, you can enhance your home’s curb appeal while improving security and energy efficiency for years to come.