Doors
The ins and outs of doors
Doors play important aesthetic and practical roles in your home. Not only are they one of the most visible design features of both the interior and exterior of your home, they are also on the front lines of home security. The best entry doors provide an effective barrier against thieves and prowlers while appearing inviting to family and friends.
Styles of Interior Doors
Beyond the standard type of interior door, which are one-piece doors that are attached to door hinges and swing open one way, there are numerous other, more creative types of doors you might want to consider.
Bifold doors are often used to separate two parts of the same room, or to define closet space. These doors are mounted on tracks that run across the top of the entryway and fold into one another, meeting in the middle.
Pocket doors are a great space saver. These doors are also track-mounted, but are hidden in the wall when not in use. They are popular because they help you get the most out of the space you have, but they can be labor-intensive in terms of door installation or repair.
Folding doors are another common type of interior door. Like bifold doors, they are frequently used to section off different parts of a room or as closet doors. They fold up, typically in two sections, allowing you easier access to your closet or room.
Sliding doors, double doors and French doors are other relatively common doors that can be used both inside and outside the house.
Types of Exterior Doors
Most entry doors are standard slab doors, and they can be single or doubled up. Storm doors are a special type of entry or exterior door that offers superior resistance to wind, rain and snow.
Screen doors are typically placed on the exterior side of a deck or patio, and are attached to sliding glass doors. Their key advantage is that they allow you to let fresh air into a room without inviting bugs and other creepy crawlies into your house – the screen keeps them at bay.
Finally, garage doors are in a class all their own. Security is particularly important with garage doors, especially if your garage is attached to your home. As with all exterior doors, you should prioritize your family's security and avoid risking burglaries to save a few bucks on a door.
