Your front entry door is the gateway to your home, and it’s important to choose a door that not only looks great but also provides security and energy efficiency. When you’re considering replacing your front entry door, it’s important to understand the different parts and their functions. To help you understand the different parts, we’ve put together a list of the key components so that you can make an informed decision about what you want.
Astragal: An astragal is a molding that is used to cover the gap between double doors. It provides a finished look and helps prevent drafts and water from entering the house.
Brickmould: The brickmould is the trim that surrounds the exterior of the frame. It covers the gap between the frame and the wall to provide a finished look.
Frame: The frame is the structure that surrounds the door and supports it. It is anchored to the wall to help hold it in place and is typically made of wood, PVC, or aluminum.
Head: The head is the horizontal part of the frame. It supports the weight of the door and distributes it evenly across the frame.
Jamb: The jamb is the vertical part of the frame. It provides support for the hinges and helps keep everything aligned.
Multi-point lock: A multi-point lock is a locking mechanism that secures the door at several points along the frame. This provides greater security than a standard lock and can help prevent forced entry.
Rail: A rail is a horizontal part of the door that runs across the top and bottom. It provides support for the stiles and helps keep the door aligned.
Sidelights: Sidelights are the narrow windows that are located on one or both sides of the frame. They provide additional light and can add visual interest to the door.
Sill: The sill is the bottom part of the frame that rests on the floor. It provides a smooth transition from the interior to the exterior and helps keep out water and drafts.
Stile: A stile is a vertical part of the door that runs along the sides. It provides support for the hinges and helps keep the door aligned.
Sweep: A sweep is a strip of material that is attached to the bottom of the door. It helps seal the gap between the door and the threshold and prevents drafts and water from entering the house.
Threshold: The threshold is the strip of material that runs along the bottom of the sill. It forms a seal between the door and the sill and prevents drafts and water from entering the house.
Transom: A transom is a window that is located above the frame. It provides additional light and ventilation and can add visual interest to the entryway.
When you’re considering replacing your front entry door, it’s important to understand the different parts and their functions. By choosing one that is well-designed and well-constructed, you can increase the security and energy efficiency of your home while also improving its curb appeal. If you’re ready to replace your front entryway, reach out to our team to discuss your options!
