Architect and Builder's Guide to Exterior Doors

Architect and builder's Guide to Exterior Doors

04 march, 2025

Exterior doors are the gateways to our homes, providing both functionality and aesthetic appeal. As architects and builders, it’s crucial to understand the various types of exterior doors available and their unique benefits. In this article, we’ll explore four main types of exterior doors: sliding doors, bifold doors, swing doors, and pivot doors. We’ll discuss their advantages, where they are typically used in homes, and why you might choose them for specific rooms.

Sliding Doors

RAM sliding doors, also known as patio doors or gliding doors, consist of large glass panels that slide horizontally on tracks. They are a popular choice for connecting indoor spaces to outdoor areas like patios, decks, or gardens.

Benefits

Space-Saving: Sliding doors don’t require additional space to open, making them ideal for smaller areas.
Natural Light: The large glass panels allow ample natural light into the room, creating a bright and airy atmosphere.
Easy Access: They offer a smooth transition between indoor and outdoor spaces, enhancing the flow of traffic.

Typical Use in Homes

Sliding doors are commonly used in living rooms, dining rooms, and kitchens to create a seamless connection with outdoor spaces. They are also popular in master bedrooms with access to balconies or private patios.

Why Choose Sliding Doors?

Choose aluminum RAM sliding doors manufactured in Texas if you want a sleek, modern look with a space-efficient design. They are ideal for creating a visual and physical connection with the outdoors, making them perfect for rooms that lead to outdoor entertaining areas.

Bifold Doors

RAM bifold doors consist of multiple panels that fold together like an accordion. They are mounted on a track system and can be opened fully to create a wide opening.

Benefits

Wide Openings: Bifold doors can open almost completely, creating a large, unobstructed opening.
Flexibility: You can open as many panels as needed, allowing for versatile use.
Indoor-Outdoor Flow: They create a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces, perfect for entertaining.

Typical Use in Homes

Bifold doors are often used in living rooms and dining rooms that open to decks, patios, or gardens. They are also common in sunrooms and home offices, where large openings are desired.

Why Choose Bifold Doors?

RAM bifold doors are ideal if you want to maximize the connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. They are perfect for entertaining, allowing you to open an entire wall to create an expansive indoor-outdoor environment.

Swing Doors

RAM swing doors are the most traditional type of door, typically hinged on one side and swinging open. They can open inward or outward, depending on the design and layout.

Benefits

Versatility: Swing doors come in various styles, from single to double doors, offering a range of design options.
Ease of Use: They are straightforward to operate and can be used in various settings.
Security: Swing doors can be equipped with multiple locking mechanisms for added security.

Typical Use in Homes

Swing doors are commonly used as front doors, back doors, and side doors. They provide a more traditional look on your home.

Why Choose Swing Doors?

Choose RAM swing doors if you prefer a classic look and are working with a smaller opening. They are suitable for traditional entry and exits and offer a range of security features.

Pivot Doors

RAM pivot doors are unique in that they rotate around a pivot point rather than being hinged on one side. This design allows for larger doors and creates a striking visual impact.

Benefits

Bold Design: Pivot doors offer a dramatic and contemporary aesthetic, creating a focal point in any space.
Larger Openings: Because they pivot, these doors can be significantly larger than traditional swing doors.
Flexibility: Pivot doors can open inward or outward, depending on the pivot point.

Typical Use in Homes

Pivot doors are often used as grand entrances, making a bold statement at the front of a home. They can also be used in modern living spaces, leading to outdoor areas or within open-plan layouts.

Why Choose Pivot Doors?

Choose RAM pivot doors if you want a unique, contemporary look that makes a bold design statement. They are ideal for creating a grand entrance or for use in modern homes where large, dramatic doors are desired.

Choosing the right exterior doors for a home depends on factors like space, style, and functionality. Sliding doors are great for space-saving and easy indoor-outdoor flow. Bifold doors offer wide openings and flexibility, ideal for entertaining. Swing doors provide a classic, versatile option, while pivot doors make a bold design statement with their unique rotation. By understanding the benefits and typical uses of each type, architects and builders can help homeowners make informed decisions that suit their needs and preferences.