Doors

1. Wood.  Comes in the widest variety of patterns and shapes, but is by far the most expensive. 
2. Fiberglass.  Is arguably one the best for its insulating ability and longevity. 
3. Steel.  Is very sturdy, however, it will get extremely hot to the touch in warm, sunny climates.

Door styles vary, based on whether you use them for interior or exterior purposes, how many windows they have, and how they open.  Styles include:  Aesthetic: Avalon, Rockport, Cambridge, Continental, Craftsman and Provincial.  Operational:  Barn, Pocket, French, Folding, Sliding, and Hinged.

Steel and fiberglass front doors require the least amount of maintenance. They're made from durable materials that resist dents and scratches, with a long-lasting finish. Wood front doors require much more maintenance.

Fiberglass doors are often cited as the most energy-efficient door option.  That is mostly because the material is a poor conductor of heat and electricity.  The most energy-efficient front door on the market is Provia’ s Embarq Door.  The Embarq door is 2 ½” thick, has a dual perimeter seal, custom bottom sweep, and an insulation channel.

Do not use a door made for interior use as an exterior door.  Interior doors are not made to withstand exposure outdoors and are usually hollow.  Exterior doors need to provide insulation and security.

For your home, exterior doors do not need to be fire-rated.  However, the door to your attached garage does need to be a fire-rated door for opening protection.  Fire-rated doors are also required on most commercial building to help protect the occupants.  They are made of at least partially fire-resistant materials to aid in stopping or slowing down the progress of a fire.

What type of door is the safest?

Doors with fewer windows are generally safer, which is why windowed patio doors are only common in the back of a home.  That doesn’t keep homeowners from choosing glass door for front entrances, however, it is recommended to have a good security system as well as reinforced door jambs and a strike plate with a multipoint locking system.

Exterior doors typically swing inward for security purposes.  When an exterior door swings inward, the hinges have been put on the inside of the door jamb.  Therefore, it decreases the ability of a burglar to unhinge the door to gain easier entry into your home.

Do exterior doors usually swing in or out?

Exterior doors typically swing inward for security purposes.  When an exterior door swings inward, the hinges have been put on the inside of the door jamb.  Therefore, it decreases the ability of a burglar to unhinge the door to gain easier entry into your home.