5 Types of Exterior Doors

 From  Exterior doors are generally built to be stronger and lighter than interior doors, as they are not subject to the same stresses. Many interior doors are made of wood, while exterior doors are usually made from steel or aluminum WDMALinks to an external site.

. External doors are also built to be heavier and sturdier than interior doors. The top veneer or face layer is generally heavier as well.

There are several types of exterior doors: Casement, French, Fixing, Paned, Louver, Fixed, Combination and Raised. Each of these has its own advantages and disadvantages. A Casement door is characterized by an open arch, usually on one or both sides. They can either swing outward or inward. They are generally strong and sturdy, but can be prone to air resistance.

French doors consist of two or more horizontal panels that swing outward. They have a folding center panel that runs from the top of the arch to the bottom. French doors often feature a locking mechanism. They are sturdy, but tend to squeak. French doors often include a veneer layer on the interior side of the door, providing a smoother surface.

Fixing doors feature a single piece of glass. These are typically made of two or more panes of glass, with a frame in the middle of the panels. These are the most common type of exterior doors and fix in both straight and curved styles. Most sliding doors have an interlocking system with sliding lips. A sliding glass door is more susceptible to dust buildup.

Paned doors may be used as exterior doors, although they are also used as interior doors. This door type is made up of one or more panes of glass, with a sheet of insulation between them. This type of door is the least energy efficient, because the glass doesn't allow heat to travel through, and because there is no ventilation. Paned doors may have insulated panels that have been sealed. In addition, some panels may be tinted to improve energy efficiency.

Patio doors have glass panes that slide to one side, rather than from the top to the bottom. This makes patio doors the best choice for exterior doors, since they provide ventilation between the panes of glass. Patio doors may also have a frosted or tinted window, to improve visibility.

An interior door constructed of wood is an excellent option for exterior doors, if they are built well. Wood is a good exterior material because it is beautiful and lasts longer than other materials, such as vinyl. However, if the wood has been exposed to water, mold, or insects, it will need to be treated to prevent rot. A good contractor will also be able to tell you if your wood has been treated, and can offer you advice on how to keep your exterior door constructed and looking good.

For home improvement projects, the best material for an exterior door are vinyl, due to its durability and ease of installation. If you're looking for an interior door constructed of wood, check to see if it's been properly treated. An interior door constructed of PVC may also be a good choice, if it's painted properly. Exterior doors can add value to a home, especially in homes that are in good shape. A well built exterior door with a good solid lock is also a security feature, so it's worth the investment.

If you're interested in adding an interior and an exterior door, you'll have many choices, from French patio doors to southwest and western inspired designs. French patio design has become extremely popular in the United States, especially in the Midwest, because it is easy to install, requires little maintenance, and looks great. A French door may be perfect for a home in a mildewy or rainy climate, or a home with no existing patio doors.

Another type of exterior door is fiberglass, which are popular due to its low cost, long lasting construction, and energy efficiency. It is more durable than vinyl or PVC, but because of its low R-value (rated resistance to heat flow) it's best installed with an interior door. Fiberglass exterior doors come in a variety of styles and colors, and they are popular in homes where there is a need to insulate against extreme temperatures. In hot climates, fiberglass exterior doors may save you money on your air conditioning bill!

Besides wood and metal doors, there are also fiberglass reinforced panels that offer an alternative moisture resistant solution. They are great in climates with a high degree of humidity, because they can withstand high humidity without developing any mold. These doors are available in a variety of styles and colors, but generally require a certain amount of clearance space around the perimeter. This is often achieved with a specialized molding system. These doors may be ideal for heavily damp climates and are very good for areas that are prone to developing mildew.