Selecting the appropriate door is more than just a design choice. It can impact your home’s security, energy efficiency, and curb appeal. It’s tempting to be overwhelmed when you’re considering all the choices out there. When selecting a door for a new home or a remodelling project, it is important to understand the most common types available. Our focus at Window Star is to create high-quality, European-style thermal-break aluminum door systems that last a lifetime.
Below are eight types of doors that all homeowners should be aware of before deciding upon one.
1. Entry Doors
Entry doors are the face of your house. They are the first thing that guests notice and the last line of defence against the elements. A good-quality entry door is made from steel, fibreglass, or aluminum and is designed to be visually appealing, thermally efficient, and secure. Find models with multiple locking points for all year-round draft-proofing and moisture exclusion, and good weatherstripping.
2. Interior Doors
Interior doors create the space, atmosphere, and ambiance of your home. They divide rooms, provide privacy, and enhance your home’s overall aesthetic. They are available in many designs and styles, such as panel, flush, and glazed, to let light into the interior. Take into account ceiling height, room dimensions and the overall house design style when choosing interior doors to provide a uniform appearance throughout the house.
3. Swing Doors
The most traditional type of door is the swing door, which opens on hinges on either side and can be opened by push or pull. They are easy to use, dependable, and popular for both indoor and outdoor applications. Swing doors are great for a clean, classic appearance, with fewer mechanical components in the way. An outward swing may help manage spaces and prevent rain from building up at the threshold when used on the outside.
4. Folding Doors
Also called bi-fold doors, folding doors consist of multiple panels that fold neatly to one side of the opening. They work well for a large, clear indoor-and-outdoor flow. When fully open, they almost blend in with the outside. Living rooms, sunrooms, and entertainment spaces are ideal uses for folding doors. They require careful installation planning but deliver a striking visual impact.
5. Lift & Sliding Doors
Lift and sliding doors take the standard sliding doors to the next level. The panel is lifted slightly off the track before sliding past it with little friction. This reduces wear on parts and provides quieter operation. Lift and sliding doors are ideal for expansive entryways that open onto a patio or garden and are often well-insulated to help maintain comfortable temperatures year-round.
6. Pivot Doors
Pivot doors are rotating doors that pivot about a central or off-center point, rather than a side hinge. This allows for a larger and more exaggerated door design than would be possible with just a hinge. Pivot doors are an eye-catching architectural feature and are becoming increasingly common in contemporary high-end residential projects. They are a showstopper in any entranceway thanks to their striking visual impact and smooth ease of use.
7. Storm Doors
Storm doors are attached exterior doors that are part of a pre-existing door system. They provide protection against wind, rain, and extreme temperatures, and enhance the energy efficiency of your main door. There are also many storm doors with interchangeable glass and screen panels, so they can be opened for ventilation on warm summer days and closed to retain warmth on cold winter nights. Storm doors are a practical, cost-effective upgrade for most homes.
8. Dutch Doors
Dutch doors consist of two separate parts, with the door divided horizontally. You can open the top half while keeping the bottom closed to provide ventilation and light without compromising security and keeping kids and pets safe inside. Dutch doors were originally used in farm homes for practical purposes, but now they are used as an attractive and useful architectural element in modern homes, both inside and out.
Choosing the Right Door for Your Home
Each house is unique. The right door for your space depends on your layout, climate, style, and budget. Our door systems are designed with European-style thermal break aluminum construction that provides the best energy efficiency, durability, and style at Window Star. We can provide you with a solution for every application, from entry doors to folding, lift and sliding doors.
Reach out to our team at Window Star today for a free estimate and let our staff help you select the right door for your home.
FAQs
1. What is the most secure type of exterior door?
Steel and aluminum entry doors with multi-point locking systems offer the highest security. They resist forced entry, withstand harsh weather, and are far more durable than standard wood alternatives.
2. What is the difference between a lift and sliding door and a regular sliding door?
A lift-and-slide door lifts slightly off its track before gliding open, reducing friction and wear on the hardware. This results in noticeably smoother, quieter operation and better long-term durability.
3. Are folding doors suitable for cold climates?
Yes, when fitted with thermally broken frames and double or triple glazing, folding doors perform well in cold climates. Proper sealing and high-quality hardware are essential for maintaining energy efficiency year-round.
4. What is a storm door, and do I actually need one?
A storm door is a secondary door installed in front of your main exterior door. It adds weather protection and improves insulation. Homeowners in regions with harsh winters or heavy rainfall benefit most from installing one.
5. Can Dutch doors be used as exterior doors?
Yes, Dutch doors work well as exterior doors when made from durable, weather-resistant materials. They offer a unique combination of ventilation, natural light, and security, making them a practical and charming exterior option.
6. How long do aluminum door systems typically last?
High-quality aluminum door systems, like those offered by Window Star, are corrosion-resistant and extremely durable. With routine maintenance, they can last several decades, making them a sound long-term investment for any homeowner.
