Replacement Doors
Written by Elizabeth Wood
Editor In Chief, United Home Improvement

The first thing one must consider before purchasing a replacement door is whether they need an interior or exterior door. Many doors are made for both interior and exterior use, but it is important to never use an interior door for exterior use. Exterior doors need proper insulation and weather guarding. If an interior door is exposed to outside weather conditions, it will delaminate as a result of moisture and UV damage. There are several different types of interior and exterior doors to choose from.

Hinged doors are the most commonly used door because they can be used for both interior and exterior use. They come in many types, but most have the same basic structure. The framework consists of a hinge stile and a lock stile. You can choose between panel and flush hinge doors. Flush doors are generally less expensive and have a smooth surface. Panel doors have several panels mounted in between rails and styles giving it a more sectional appearance.

As an entry door to a deck or patio, a sliding door would work best. Sliding doors provide great versatility. They usually consist of one movable panel and one fixed panel, also called atrium doors. Exterior patio sliding doors glide along the top and bottom carrier and they move independently. They are usually available in aluminum, glass, and wood frameworks. Closet sliding doors are usually hung from the top rail. You can also use a bi-fold door for closet use. Bi-folds consist of two panels that close into each other.

French doors are another option, mainly for interior use, but can also be used as entry doors to gardens or back porch rooms. French doors consist of two swinging doors connected together in a train. You can choose between several designs which include an in-swing French door, out-swing French door, and a French style sliding patio door. Certain interior French doors can be finished to match an existing theme. Thanks to fiberglass, exterior French doors are available in several colors as well.

Last but not least, for external use only, storm doors are an essential aspect to enhance the appearance of your home. Storm doors are a great way to weatherproof your home and also save in energy costs. They consist of windows, screens and sometimes both. There are several things to consider before purchasing a storm door including the type of door finish, hardware quality, weather stripping, and construction material. It is best to invest in a storm door if your main exterior door is old. It is often a waste of money to add a storm door to a new exterior door because the energy savings are not worth it.

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