Category: Door Buying Guides

When it’s time to update or upgrade your door knob, the options are seemingly endless. With a mix of style, security, and finish to consider, it can be daunting to choose just one door knob to meet all of your needs.

When it comes to exterior doors, door knobs are an essential piece of having a secure entryway, and they can also add style and curb appeal to your door. Let’s take a look at the three main types of door knobs and how to choose a style that suits your home.

 

Types of Door Knobs

While designs vary greatly, there are three common types of door knobs to choose from, each with its own style and functionality.

Traditional Door Knobs

While the classic, rounded door knob isn’t the most original choice, there is plenty of room for adding a personal touch. Characterized by its round or spherical shape, the classic door knob can be found on many exterior doors, though the style and finish can be customized to match front door color and style. Because the classic style is the most common, it’s easy to find a plethora of options at most hardware retailers. These door knobs also typically come equipped with a locking mechanism.

Door Lever

Door levers are a common alternative to the classic, rounded door knob. Like traditional knobs, door levels often feature a locking mechanism within the lever. In terms of functionality, door levers can be easier to operate than traditional door knobs, being that the lever works up-and-down, rather than needing to be turned. This is why door levers are commonly found on commercial buildings as they are ADA compliant.

In addition to functionality, door levers provide additional design flair that works well for a variety of homes. For example, ornate door levers can add a dash of flair to vintage home styles, while a modern, minimalist style home will benefit from an angular door lever design with clean, straight lines.

Handle Sets

Handle sets are a popular, versatile option that infuse the aesthetic of a door handle on the exterior and the functionality of a door knob or lever on the interior. Unlike traditional door knobs and door levers, this design typically requires a deadbolt lock as the door handle does not feature a locking mechanism.

Like door knobs and door levers, handle sets come in a variety of designs and styles. For example, an ornate handle set works great for Victorian homes, while sharp, angular designs are great picks for modern or rustic homes.

 

Choosing a Door Knob Finish

Once you’ve chosen the type of door knob that’s right for you, the next step is choosing the finish. Matching the finish with the type of door knob and overall home style can boost your front door curb appeal. Let’s take a look at some of the most common finishes and what they pair well with.

Nickel

A nickel finish will work for a wide range of both traditional and contemporary door styles. Specifically, satin nickel is a popular exterior door knob finish. It provides a textured look and works well with mid-century style homes and darker front door colors such as navy blue. Opting for a traditional door knob type will accent the classic, timeless feelings of these homes.

Brass

Brass is a classic door knob finish that provides a sense of vintage elegance, making it a great choice for Victorian or Colonial homes. A bright, polished brass finish provides a dash of glamor that complements these styles especially well.

For those looking for a more subtle shade, antique brass is another popular choice for exterior doors. As opposed to the boldness of polished brass, antique brass gives off a sense of warmth that pairs well with natural design features such as stone or wood.

Bronze

Bronze door knobs feature a dark brown tone that changes over time as the knob is handled. The dark shade lends itself to a feeling of luxury and sophistication—an aged bronze finish is a stunning fit for Craftsman-style homes and other traditional architectural styles. Its synergy with natural colors also makes it an excellent choice for Rustic or Mediterranean homes. In this case, a handle set can be a top choice.

Chrome

A chrome finish is a great way to infuse vintage, Art Deco charm into modern designs. This makes it an excellent choice for homes with a minimalist style. Pair a bright chrome finish and an angular door lever or handle set for a perfect blend of modern design.

Black

Black is a very versatile finish choice that can accent nearly any home style. Modern homes can benefit from a sleek, matte black door lever, while a traditional black door knob can be a stoic addition to the Colonial style.

A black finish also works great for rustic door knobs, especially set against a dark wood grain design. Plastpro’s Rustic Door Series features a deep, rich natural wood color and a variety of wrought iron accessories that pair perfectly with a black door knob—consider a handleset for a dash of elegance.

 

Putting it All Together

Door hardware and accessories can make a huge impact on the overall style and curb appeal of your home. Selecting the type of door knob that fits not only your personal preferences, but also your exterior door and home can be a great way to tie your entryway together.

In addition to the style and type of door knob you choose, be sure to take into consideration the best exterior door locks to get both style and security with your front door. And don’t forget the most important part: the door itself. Plastpro’s selection of fiberglass doors ensures that you can find the right style to match your home along with enhanced durability, energy efficiency, and door security.

To find the right fiberglass door for your home, visit our Where to Buy page to learn where to get a Plastpro door near you.

If you live in an area that experiences harsh, cold winters, the quality of your exterior door is one of the most important aspects of keeping your house warm. In addition to security purposes and being the face of your home, your front door also controls how much outside air is let in—especially during the winter. 

 

Exterior Door Factors for Cold Weather

 

Insulation/Energy Efficiency

When it comes to material, fiberglass doors are generally the most popular option when looking at the best exterior doors for cold weather. In addition to being durable and low-maintenance, the insulative properties of fiberglass make fiberglass doors a prime option for keeping the cold out—especially as this will help you avoid high energy bills during the winter months. 

While some homeowners opt for steel, the material’s high thermal conductivity makes it important to find a steel door with the best interior insulation. For homeowners who seek a traditional wood door, a solid wood door is the best option for keeping out cold air. It’s important to remember that wood is also the least durable of the three, has less insulation, and is more likely to warp over time. For those seeking the classic wood look, a fiberglass door that mimics the look of wood is generally the best choice when it comes to keeping your home warm in the winter.

Moisture Repellant

The best exterior doors for cold weather are not just insulated well, but moisture repellent and weather resistant. Chances are, if you live in a cold climate, you’re dealing with snow, ice, and wind in the winter. These factors can slowly damage your exterior door. 

Fiberglass doors are naturally more weather-proof than wood or steel. While steel will not crack from cold weather, it is more susceptible to dents and chipping and requires quite a bit of upkeep. Wood is more sensitive to a moisture imbalance, so during the cold months especially, wood doors are prone to warping or even cracking. 

Glazing

Living in a cold climate doesn’t mean you can’t have window panes on your exterior door; it simply means you have to choose the best type of glass panes for your door. High quality glass, Low-E coatings, and double/triple-paned glass are usually the best for reducing heat loss. Low-E glass in particular means less heat is lost through the panes, but it also allows some of the sun’s energy to come through and heat your home. 

 

Exterior Doors From Plastpro

Plastpro’s fiberglass doors are a great option for customers who live in a colder climate and deal with harsh winters. Our selection of fiberglass doors feature HydroShield Technology, which fully encases and protects the polyurethane foam core, a dense core that offers superior insulation. 

Check out Plastpro’s Where to Buy page to find a dealer near you today.

As the point of entry in a home, a secure front door is one of the most important ways to keep your household safe. While a fiberglass door is a great foundation when ensuring safety in your home, a simple way to ramp up your home security is through a quality exterior door lock. From features such as keyless entry to touchscreen control pads, a great lock can offer superior security and peace of mind when leaving the house. 

What to consider when choosing a lock

There are a variety of considerations when you’re choosing a lock. From design, to lock grade, to special features, it all comes down to what works best for your home’s security. Some of today’s most advanced locks employ access logs, keypads, alarms, strike plates, and even voice or fingerprint recognition. 

Lock Type

Just as there are different door designs, there are different designs of locks to keep your home safe. It might sound complex, but choosing a type of lock is surprisingly simple if you know what you want in terms of home security. Let’s take a look at a few types of locks.

Single cylinder locks

A single cylinder lock is one of the most common locks used to secure your home. This type of lock operates from the inside by turning a thumb knob and from the outside with a key. This makes it easy to quickly secure your home from the inside.

Double cylinder locks

Double cylinder locks start out similar to its single cylinder relative, but its similarities end at opening from the outside with a key. Instead, these locks are keyed on both sides, meaning they only open with a key on the exterior and the interior. These are a great option for doors with glass panes, as anyone attempting to break in would be unable to reach inside and unlock the deadbolt. 

Smart locks

With today’s technological advances, it’s no surprise this has extended to home security. Smart locks connect to your home’s Wi-Fi, which then sends information to your smartphone. Some are even operated by voice control or with fingerprint recognition. If you’re wondering how secure these locks are, don’t worry—these locks are often used with a deadbolt for the best possible front door security.

Vertical locks

Vertical locks are the most common secondary locks sold in the US. These locks feature a vertical bolt which extends through a set of rings, securing your door. While they are found on both commercial and residential doors, these types of locks are often found in hotel doors and apartment complexes. 

Quality

Locks are issued ratings by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), which measures each lock’s strength and durability. The ANSI grade is a factor that decides how secure your lock is. 

Grade 1

Grade 1 is the most secure type of lock, with the ability to withstand 10 strikes of 75 lbs of force. Grade 1 has been considered for a long time to be a heavy-duty, industrial lock used mostly within industrial and commercial settings, but it’s become more common to find them within residential homes. If you’re looking for a Grade 1 lock, it’s important to make sure it’s a qualified ANSI Grade 1, and not a lock with Grade 1 “features”.

Grade 2

Grade 2 locks are the residential standard, with the ability to withstand 5 strikes of 75 pounds of force. While it may sound necessary to go with a Grade 1 lock for your home, many residential homes employ Grade 2 locks, as they’re designed to prevent most forced entry attempts. As Grade 2 locks are sometimes even used for light commercial use, they’re a great choice for keeping your house safe.

Grade 3

Grade 3 is considered the lowest quality acceptable according to ANSI standards, and it can generally withstand 2 strikes of 75 pounds of force. Grade 3 locks are often used in basic residential settings; while it will still offer basic security, it’s unlikely to deter a persistent intruder.

Features

For even more ease of use and access and an even greater sense of security, you can pick up locks with a variety of special features. 

Reinforced strike plate

A strike plate is the metal plate that attaches to the inside of the door frame. As one of the most important aspects of your home security, some homeowners opt for reinforced plates, rather than inexpensive ones that might give or bend easily in an attempted break-in.

Access logs

Another great feature for peace of mind when it comes to home security are access logs. This gives homeowners the option to install smart door locks which provide information on who entered your house and when. 

Alarm system

If you’re serious about security, you might opt for a smart lock with a built-in alarm system. An alarm system is one of the best ways to deter intruders, and is especially useful on a lock as the entry door is often the first point of entry for an intruder. 

Rekeying

For homeowners who struggle to remember where they’ve misplaced their keys, rekeying is a great feature as it eliminates the need to replace your lock each time you lose a key and prevents entry with old keys. 

Universal handling

If your interest in features is more focused on accessibility and ease of access, universal handling gives homeowners the ability to install locks that are universal for both right-handed and left-handed doors.

Improve your home security with Plastpro

While choosing a lock can be a big decision, it’s important to remember that your lock is only as good as your exterior door is. For the most secure home possible, you might consider replacing your door if it’s getting a little old, or even switching out a traditional wood door for a superior fiberglass door. 

Plastpro offers a variety of designs and options, allowing any homeowner to get the look they want while enhancing durability and door security. With a durable outer shell and high-density, polyurethane foam core, our doors are built to stand up to anything—from severe weather to intruders. Where locks are concerned, Plastpro’s fiberglass doors feature a full-length lockblock, which provides additional holding strength for any lock of your choosing.

Why is a full-length lockblock so key? Traditionally a fiberglass door’s lockblock is only built to surround the immediate 18- 20” vicinity of the lock, and the rest of the space above and below is filled in with foam. However, our lumber runs the full vertical length of the door, providing additional rigidity and support that keeps the door from being kicked in by an intruder or blown in by severe weather. Additionally, the LVL material will absorb bendable stress without snapping, unlike a wood material.

To find a dealer near you, check out Plastpro’s Where to Buy page today.

If you’ve been thinking about placing your house on the market, you might be wondering what renovations and repairs you can work on to increase your home’s market value. If your entryway is looking a bit outdated or worse for the wear, a great place to consider starting is with your front door. In fact, curb appeal can significantly increase home value; a new front door can add up to $24,000 to a house’s perceived value, making it a great investment. 

 

How Front Doors Increase Home Value

A new front door is one of the best improvements you can make, as it offers a potential return on investment of around 75%. A return on investment, or ROI, means you’ll get back about 75% of what you spent on your new entry door in the form of your home’s increased value. This is subject to how much the door costs and how much it improves the appearance of your home in the eyes of buyers.

Let’s take a look at four ways to increase home value with front doors. It should be noted that these are general suggestions—for more specific assistance, be sure to check with your local real estate professionals for more information.

Paint your front door

If you’re looking for a low-cost, simple way to quickly increase your house’s value, consider adding a fresh coat of paint to your front door. While adding a new coat of your door’s current color will do the job of freshening up your entryway, you might want to consider switching the color completely. 

According to Zillow, a black or charcoal front door can add $6,271 to the resale value of a home, making it an excellent investment when preparing your home for the market. Be sure to check with your door manufacturer for warranty and maintenance instructions before painting, to be sure you use the correct type of paint and aren’t taking any steps that would compromise the integrity of the door. For example, Plastpro recommends steering away from these darker paint colors if your door receives a lot of direct sunlight or doesn’t have an overhang—darker colors can speed up the rate of UV damage to the door.

Choose a door with mass appeal

This might go without saying, but it’s an important reminder—if the sole purpose of your investment is to increase home value with the intent to sell, you’ll want to focus on a style that is widely appealing. 

Craftsman and modern style doors are currently quite popular, while the timeless, traditional look of a classic wood grain is always a strong choice. If you’re unsure of how each style differs, check out Plastpro’s Craftsman Series and Modern Series to see what might best complement your home’s architectural style, as well as Plastpro’s Oak Grain Series and Mahogany Series if you’re more interested in the classic, traditional style.

Attract smart buyers

Outside of the obvious benefit of curb appeal, installing a new front door can help put you ahead of the competition on the market. Smart buyers will often assess the condition of different aspects of a home to note what might need updating or replacing in the near future. Simply having a brand new front door can give you a selling point other homes might not have. 

Choose a quality front door

While you might think you don’t need to spend much on a front door for the house you’re planning on selling, be careful not to underspend. Choosing the least expensive door on the market can send a similar message to buyers that a neglected front door can, especially if they know what to look for. If you choose a front door that’s drafty, flimsy, or tacky, it is unlikely to increase the value of your home much, if at all. 

Keep in mind the average ROI for a new front door—you should get the majority of your investment back through your home’s increased value. The best value for your entryway is generally a fiberglass door, especially if you want to avoid as much upkeep as possible between updating and selling. 

Fiberglass can offer the classic look of wood grains, but with less required maintenance to keep it looking new. Fiberglass is also superior in terms of soundproofing, insulation, and security, offering three additional selling points for prospective buyers.

 

Plastpro’s selection of fiberglass doors

If you’ve settled on replacing your front door to increase home value, Plastpro offers a variety of options to help you maximize ROI and boost the market value of your home. Plastpro’s HydroShield Technology encases the door with weatherproof material on all 6 sides and prevents warping, delamination, corrosion, rotting, and the buildup of mold and mildew that wood and steel doors are prone to. Combining this exterior with a high-density, polyurethane foam core makes our fiberglass doors secure, durable, and energy efficient. This level of performance is available in all our door series, ensuring you can get the style you want.

Try out Plastpro’s Doorability tool to see a new entry door or new door color on your house to find the best fit for your home’s style, or check out our Where to Buy page to find a dealer near you.

If you’re considering an entry door with glass, you might be weighing your options with Low-E glass vs. normal glass. The type of glass you choose can be critical when it comes to factors such as energy efficiency, and depending on where you live, it can be worth it to invest in Low-E glass. Let’s take a look at how Low-E glass is rated and what benefits it can provide vs. normal glass.

 

What is Low-E glass?

Low-E stands for “Low-Emissivity”, emissivity meaning the amount of radiation emitted or absorbed. When looking at Low-E glass vs. normal glass, the main difference is that Low-E glass has a thin, transparent coating applied to the inside of the interior side of the glass, reflecting the interior temperatures back inside to reduce energy loss through the glass and maintain indoor temperatures.

Therefore, Low-E glass will keep your home’s temperature cooler or warmer, depending on your climate and season. This coating is so thin that it will not affect the amount of natural light the glass lets indoors—but note that it does have a light, blue-green tint compared to clear glass. 

As clear, normal glass does not have this specialized coating, temperature exchange from inside to outside occurs, which can make it difficult to regulate your home’s temperature. 

 

Benefits of Low-E glass vs. normal glass

The special coating of Low-E glass is designed with energy efficiency in mind, but it provides a variety of additional benefits as well.

Energy-efficient

An estimated 70% of energy loss is through windows and doors. Low-E glass will reduce this loss and save homeowners money in the long run on heating and cooling bills by helping to maintain internal temperatures.

Insulated with Argon gas

The majority of Low-E glass utilizes Argon gas between the glass panes. This helps to preserve the window’s coating, but it also improves energy efficiency, as Argon gas has a higher density than plain air, which helps to keep internal temperatures from escaping.

Protects the inside of your home

As Low-E glass prevents certain light from entering your home, it can also prevent damage to your household belongings. UV light can cause damage to the inside of your home over time. By using Low-E glass, you can protect your furniture, walls, carpeting, and even photos from fading and light damage. 

Reduce condensation

Condensation that can build up between pieces of front door glass can lead to problems such as foggy glass, mold, or mildew. This happens most notably in winter, when the inside temperature is much higher than the surface temperature of the glass. Low-E glass actually minimizes—and can even eliminate—unwanted condensation, as the protective coating will keep the surface temperature of the glass warmer in the winter. 

Durable protection

While there are methods to add insulation to clear glass, Low-E coating is applied to the inside of the glass. Therefore, even though it’s a thin, transparent coating, it can’t be scratched or wiped away. 

 

Low-E Glass Measurement and Ratings

Not all Low-E glass is the same, and it can come in many forms, with different types of ratings and coatings for high, moderate, or low solar heat gain in cold, temperate, or hot climates. Different glass and coatings will provide a different level of performance, and it’s important to understand your options. A few things you should keep in mind:

U-Factor

The U-Factor is the rate at which the glass conducts non-solar heat flow—or, how well the product keeps heat trapped inside. These ratings will typically fall between .25 and 1.25. Generally, the lower the rating is, the better the insulation.

Solar Heat Gain Coefficient

The Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) is the amount of solar radiation that passes through a product. This rating will typically be measured between 0 and 1. The desirable coefficient depends on where you live- in warmer climates a lower solar heat gain coefficient will help keep the indoors cool, but in cooler climates a higher solar heat gain coefficient can help to keep the home warm.

Visible transmittance

Visible transmittance is how transparent the glass is. This is typically measured between 0 and 1. To allow as much natural light as possible to come through, you might look for glass with a rating closer to 1.

Low E Glass Rating

Low-E glass comes in a series of ratings depending on the amount of heat that is reflected back. Depending on the manufacturer, ratings will appear differently, but a higher number indicates a higher percentage of solar rays that are blocked. This will subsequently affect the U-Factor and SHGC, meaning that different ratings will provide various levels of energy performance.

The most commonly seen ratings are Low E 2 and Low E 3. Which rating to go with will depend on a variety of factors, including your location and budget. Generally, Low E 3 is considered a strong all-around rating, as it provides enhanced performance in hot and cold weather.

 

Low-E glass vs. normal glass

With all of this in mind, it’s clear that Low-E glass provides additional benefits compared to normal, clear glass. But is it right for you? When making your decision, you will want to determine the most important factors for your situation, including:

Cost

The benefits of Low-E glass will come with increased cost. Consider which option fits best into your budget. However, it should be noted that long-term cost—as it relates to future heating and cooling bills—should also be factored in, as Low-E glass will provide savings over time.

Energy efficiency

If your main concern is energy efficiency, then Low-E glass is a clear winner. As covered, the specialized design will keep your home more comfortable and keep your energy bills lower.

Appearance

While Low-E glass doesn’t block natural light, it does have a noticeable tint compared to clear glass. Some homeowners may opt for clear glass to avoid the blue-green hue.

 

Plastpro’s selection of Low-E door glass

Plastpro’s offers a selection of doors with Low-E glass—check out our Doorlite collection to see our wide range of glass options. If you are looking to maximize both natural light and efficiency, our Nova Door Series features Low-E glass options, including LoE 366. These doors are made with direct glazed glass, which creates a seamless blend between the glass and the door. The beauty and boosted natural light from the Nova Series, coupled with the energy efficiency benefits of the Low-E coating, make this an excellent front door option wherever you are. 

To explore Plastpro’s selection of fiberglass doors and Low-E glass options, check out our Where to Buy page to find a dealer near you.

There are a variety of materials to consider when selecting an entry door, and each type differs when it comes to appearance, cost, sustainability, and more. For years, wood entry doors were really the only choice, but with innovations in the past 30 years, steel and fiberglass entry doors have become real contenders. Choosing between these three options is an important decision with long-term consequences for preventing waste and avoiding expensive replacements. Read on to see how these materials compare and which have the best potential to stand the test of time.

1. Appearance

Wood entry doors are known for being visually appealing, traditional, and easily customizable. Their rich, natural color often makes them an attractive buy. Additionally, they are available in several configurations and sizes- they are more easily customized in width and height than steel and fiberglass doors.

Steel doors, on the other hand, are widely considered the least adaptable. Most steel doors feature a smooth surface and less available configurations, resulting in minimal curb appeal compared to wood and fiberglass.

Fiberglass doors offer the best of both worlds and act as a good compromise between wood and steel. These doors have evolved to mimic the look of wood graining, and come in various styles that can be stained or painted depending on the skin to suit homeowner preference.

2. Cost and Durability

Price is a major factor in deciding which option to invest in. Both the upfront cost of the material and the cost-per-use of the door should be considered.

Wood doors typically start at a higher price point than steel or fiberglass, but the pricing will vary depending on the type of wood and slab sizes. However, wood doors are highly susceptible to weather and are privy to scratches, dents, warping, and moisture damage which will likely necessitate a full, costly replacement.

Basic steel doors are the lowest initial cost, but also the most susceptible to damage in the long-term- the material is very prone to denting and rusting. What’s particularly bothersome about steel entry doors is how easily they can be damaged during installation and construction; they don’t stand up well to the abuse generated on jobsites. And this material is the hardest to repair and most likely to require a full door replacement.

Fiberglass entry doors typically offer a mid-price point, although more elaborate configurations will increase the cost. But what fiberglass doors cost upfront, they make up for with their durability.

With a composite exterior that repels water and resists warping, rotting, and cosmetic damage, fiberglass doors should last decades with minimal maintenance. This makes them an excellent investment and a natural choice for consumers seeking sustainable building materials. The longer lifecycle of the material reduces waste and the resources needed for manufacturing.

3. Energy Efficiency

Energy efficient exterior doors help reduce energy usage and costs in the home, so this is another important factor to consider when determining the pros and cons of wood, fiberglass, and steel entry doors.

Wood doors have relatively poor insulation and are the least energy efficient option. Natural wood is more likely to disperse heat from the indoors to the outside and vice versa than steel or fiberglass.

Steel doors are more energy efficient than wood, and can also outperform fiberglass when made properly and filled with high-density, polyurethane foam. However, steel is the strongest temperature conductor, meaning that it is most likely to be affected by the weather. The door can be extremely cold in the winter as well as burning hot in the summer— and this will extend indoors if not built properly.

However, even though some steel doors will outperform fiberglass in regards to U-Factor and R-Value, fiberglass doors are still top-rated when it comes to energy efficiency. Like steel doors, when their foam cores are tightly packed, they provide strong insulation and help maintain a consistent temperature, which ultimately will lower energy usage in any season.

In conclusion, fiberglass doors may be worth the investment due to the combination of their beauty, design, and function, especially when considering the savings on energy and replacement costs. This might sound too good to be true, and with some brands that is certainly the case. Fiberglass doors built with exposed wood components will fail if not properly cared for. So, when choosing a fiberglass door, look for brands, like Plastpro, that sell fiberglass doors with a completely composite exterior and a complementary composite door frame, to make sure you can fully experience the benefits of an all-composite entry unit for your project.

 

The anatomy of a door isn’t always given much thought, with the focus often being on the material, curb appeal, and other more commonly discussed factors. However, knowing the exact anatomy of a door and door unit is helpful for front door home improvement projects, replacing any aspect of your entryway, and simplifying the buying process.

Key components in the anatomy of a door unit

There are three main aspects of a door’s anatomy: the door slab itself, the components that make a door unit, and add-ons. Let’s look at each component in detail.

The Door

Door slab

The slab is the main component of the door unit. This is usually made of a fiberglass, steel, or wood exterior and a core. For more on what goes into the core of the slab, we suggest referring to Plastpro’s Door Cores Comparison Guide.

Stiles

Stiles are the vertical components of the door slab. Stiles, alongside rails, often give the illusion of a single carved piece. Stiles are important—particularly their width—in the anatomy of a door as the door’s locks will usually be mounted near the stiles, and sometimes stiles are not wide enough for certain locking mechanisms. Note that the stile where the lock is located is often referred to as the lock stile, and the stile on the opposite side is called the hinge stile. Stiles—and rails—play an integral role in protecting the interior of the door from weather-related damage—especially water.

Rails

Rails are the horizontal component of the door slab, the top and bottom being differentiated as the “top rail” and the “bottom rail.” Rails play an important part in any hardware mounted close to them, as you’ll often have to take their measurements to ensure any connecting hardware (such as a kick plate) will fit properly.

It should be noted that what are considered the stiles and rails differ based on the type of door material used. For example, a flush wood door will not have stiles and rails. But for a paneled wood door, the interior area between the panels is also referred to as the stiles and rails. For doors that are pressed by a mold, such as steel or fiberglass, stiles and rails can also refer to the top and bottom, left and right encasing component pieces of the door.

Lock block 

The lock block is the solid area on the interior of the door slab that is placed for a lock to be attached. The lock block is an important security consideration, as a lock will only function as well as the lock block it is attached to. Generally, the lock block will cover the 18-20” vicinity around the lock. However, Plastpro’s fiberglass doors feature a lock block that runs the length of the door to provide additional rigidity and support for the door, extra holding strength for the lock, and to accomodate any configuration of lock with no space constraints.

 

Door Unit

Sill

The sill sits underneath the door and connects to the frame on both sides of the door, set at an angle slanted down from the door to prevent unwanted dirt, debris, or bugs from making their way through any crevices. These are usually made of aluminum. The sill can also be referred to as the threshold.

Jamb/Frame

The jamb, or door frame, is actually composed of three pieces that frame the door. The left and right vertical pieces are referred to as side jambs, and the horizontal piece that sits at the top is called the head jamb. Depending on the homeowner’s preference, the jamb can be made of veneered wood, solid wood, or composite material. The material can influence the strength of the frame, which ultimately impacts security. Choosing a strong, durable material, such as a composite door frame, can improve front door security.

Moulding 

Moulding, also known as trim or casing, is installed around the frame. While moulding does work to cover gaps in the frame, it also provides added beauty and personalization to the entryway. Moulding is available in a variety of styles to increase your front door curb appeal or accent your architectural style. In addition to aesthetic value, moulding can also offer protection to the entryway by preventing moisture infiltration into the door unit.

 

Door Add-Ons

Door Handle/Knob

The door handle is used to open and close the door. Door handles come in a variety of styles and finishes to complement your door and home. Many door handles also feature key cylinders and lock buttons used to lock and unlock the door.

Locking mechanism

A locking mechanism is what gives your exterior door its main point of security. The three main mechanisms used are a cylindrical lock, a mortise lock, and a multi-point lock. The cylindrical lock, one of the most common choices, is installed through a hole in the door slab. The mortise lock, which offers added security, is inserted into a hole cut into the side of the door. The multi-point lock, which has three points of locking security rather than one, is installed onto the side of the door with multiple points of locking.

Hinges

Hinges are pieces of metal hardware that start off separate from the door, but are attached to the door and the frame for a smooth and secure fit and swing. How you install the hinges is very important, as hinges are crucial to the tightness, and therefore, sealing of a door when it’s shut. Generally, three or four hinges are used for an exterior door.

Door sweep

The door sweep is usually connected to the underside of the door, which works with the weatherstripping to create the seal between the bottom of the door and the sill.

Weatherstrips

Weatherstrips are an external material (often foam, felt, rubber, or metal) that are attached to the outside of a door’s frame. This ensures that when the door is shut, it creates a seal that keeps out cold or hot air, bugs, and moisture. Weatherstrips are usually installed alongside the door sweep.

Deadbolt lock

The deadbolt lock, usually installed above the handle and its locking mechanism, offers extra front door security through a bolt that extends from the door into the frame by turning the key or its lock.

While there may be other components of doors depending on the intricacy of the door’s architectural style, which may call for the use of accessories, or the need to install specialty items like ADA hardware, these are the main components that make up the anatomy of a door. As exterior doors are meant to be secure and weather resistant, the quality of each separate component is crucial to the integrity of your door, and having a door that will stand the test of time.

 

The Plastpro difference

Plastpro takes pride in offering fiberglass doors that prioritize durability, security, and sustainability—aspects that are ingrained in each individual component of the door and door unit. From our long-lasting and durable fiberglass door slab, high-density polyurethane foam core, and innovative composite PF door frames, each element combines to form an entryway that is secure, weatherproof, energy efficient, and long-lasting—not to mention one that looks great too. 

Thanks to our composite stiles, rails, and door frames, Plastpro is the only fiberglass door manufacturer in the U.S. that offers door units with no exposed wood, which lends our doors improved performance and durability. Where hardware is concerned, our full-length lock block allows for any lock of your choice for additional door security, and our selection of door accessories can add flair and create a door that is uniquely yours.

To find out more about how Plastpro can assist you with all your door needs, view our website, and find a dealer to purchase a door near you. 

LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is a widely used, internationally recognized certification system centered around making environmentally friendly and green building decisions. A LEED certified building signifies an energy-efficient, green building process which also has a lasting impact on important goals like a lower carbon footprint, improved indoor environmental quality, and increased social equity. Through these goals, LEED is designed to support the overall health and safety of people at home or work.

LEED is a comprehensive process and ranges from initial design and construction through building operation and performance. Therefore, understanding LEED requirements can take some research, as the certification criteria cover various aspects of the building process and material choices. To help start the process, we’ve compiled a guide of elements to be mindful of when it comes to LEED requirements, as well as information about how selecting fiberglass doors as a material may help build towards certification.

 

Benefits of LEED

Before diving into LEED requirements and certification, it’s important to understand the benefits of LEED. As mentioned, LEED is designed with sustainability and health in mind. Let’s take a look at some of the key areas that LEED certification can improve.

Environmental Benefits

When building to LEED standards, buildings have a wide range of environmental benefits, such as lower carbon emission, less water consumed, and less waste. Because of the emphasis on sustainability, these environmental benefits will be seen for years after the project is complete. 

Economic Benefits

LEED standards can provide savings as well. The economic benefits are products of environmental benefits, such as decreasing the cost of energy, water, and waste. In addition, sustainability is top of mind for consumers, meaning that businesses who earn LEED certification can improve their brand and lead to improved financial performance. The same can be said for residential buildings, as LEED certification has been shown to decrease vacancy rates.

Health Benefits

At the core of LEED requirements is the intent to improve the overall health and safety of those spending time inside. LEED spaces improve indoor air quality, provide more natural light, and are free of harmful chemicals. 

Social Benefits

Besides negating health risks, LEED requirements also promote benefits for occupants—like comfort and wellbeing—through thoughtfully designed surroundings. For example, more natural light and easy access to the outdoors should have a positive effect on work productivity, and energy efficient homes are more temperate, comfortable spaces for inhabitants.

Green buildings can also have a positive impact on surrounding communities and cause a more equitable distribution of resources—particularly because they may be built in locations that encourage the use of public transportation, have a reduced use of resources required to maintain them, and lower community exposure to toxic chemicals.

 

LEED Requirements for Certification

LEED requirements are the environmental requirements that building projects must meet to achieve a LEED certification. These projects can range from new construction to building updates—LEED is for all building types and all building phases, which means there is a specific framework and LEED requirements for each project. 

While there are different LEED requirements for each type of project, you can potentially increase your LEED certification score by focusing on the following concepts when planning a project or building:

• Energy/atmosphere
• Indoor environmental quality
• Regional priority
• Integrative process
• Location/transportation
• Building materials and resources
• Natural, sustainable building site
• Water efficiency

The latest LEED requirements, v4.1, place specific emphasis on projects that focus on human comfort and health, stating that a building should prioritize “the most important asset of the building: human beings.” This includes a focus on social equity, including prioritizing accessibility and inclusiveness within a building’s communities.

Focusing on the concepts above can help you meet and exceed LEED requirements, and the minimum in the certification process is as follows:

• Be in compliance with environmental regulations and standards
• Meet the threshold of floor area requirements
• Meet a building occupancy minimum
• Maintain a reasonable site boundary
• Be a permanent building 
• Share energy and water usage data
• Have a minimum building to site area ratio

A LEED certification will add up to a total points score, depending on your project and how well you met the requirements. Buildings can earn up to 110 points, with 40 being the minimum threshold to earn certification. The levels for v4.1 are as follows:

Certified: 40-49 Points

Silver: 50-59 Points

Gold: 60-79 Points

Platinum: 80+ Points

 

How Fiberglass Doors Can Help

Fiberglass exterior doors may contribute to your earned points when seeking a LEED certification. As a LEED certification generally measures how energy-efficient a building is, fiberglass doors are one of the best ways to meet LEED requirements when it comes to exterior doors. Fiberglass doors are a poor conductor of heat and electricity, a feature that works with their superior insulative properties to minimize the transfer of heat between indoors and out- they are up to four times as insulating as a wood door. This means the amount of energy lost when using a fiberglass entry door will generally be minimal when compared to doors made of other materials.

As an ENERGY STAR Partner, Plastpro offers a selection of fiberglass entry doors that are ENERGY STAR Qualified. These doors in particular have been certified as energy-efficient through the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) and have met the United States’s Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) energy efficiency guidelines. Check Plastpro doors and sidelites for labels with the Solar Heat Gain Coefficient—the door’s ability to resist indirect solar radiation—and U-Factor rating: how well a product keeps heat trapped inside. Plastpro’s fiberglass doors are also certified as compliant with LEED standards for indoor air quality.

When looking for the most energy-efficient door to help meet your LEED requirements, it’s also important to consider the climate of the area where you live. For example, a Solar Heat Gain Coefficient with a rating on the lower end might be better in a warmer climate, to keep the indoors cooler, and the opposite is true in a cooler climate. Climate, ratings (U-Factor, R-values, and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient), and LEED requirements are all important to factor in when deciding on the best entry door in terms of energy efficiency.  

In addition to energy efficiency and a longer, less wasteful lifespan, Plastpro’s doors also align with LEED certification in regards to providing a healthy space, as the doors resist the buildup of mold, which is detrimental to indoor air quality and human health.

To find a Plastpro dealer near you, visit our Where to Buy page. For more information on Plastpro’s energy-efficient fiberglass doors, visit our website.

While there are standard door sizes, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to doors. There are a variety of factors that might affect door size, such as application and the type of door you choose. Depending on your situation, you may also find the need for a custom-size door to fit your entryway. One type of custom door size is created by trimming down a pre-made door. This works especially well for remodeling older homes, providing an affordable and convenient alternative to creating a completely unique, custom door. To determine if this is the best choice for your situation, it’s important to understand custom exterior door sizes, such as when they might be needed and what options are available. 

Reasons for custom exterior door sizes

Standard sizes for entry doors include:

• Width: 2/0, 2/4, 2/6, 2/8, 2/10, 3/0, and 3/6
• Height: 6/8, 7/0, and 8/0
• Thickness: 1 ¾ inches

If you’ve measured your door and it doesn’t match these sizes, you’ll likely need a custom-size exterior door, which is where trimming may come in. Let’s take a look at a few situations where selecting a trimmable door may be the best option for addressing your need for a custom exterior door size.

1. Old homes/replacing an old door

Replacing a door in an older home often means a standard size door will not fit, as older homes were less likely built with standard features. A custom door size is often required when putting a new exterior door in your older home, but unless the entryway is particularly extravagant, this will likely fall closer to a standard size than other custom doors. Therefore, this need may be most easily addressed by selecting a trimmable door and asking a professional to fit it to your space.

2. You want to use the existing door jamb

If you’ve decided you need or want a new front door but want to use the existing door jamb, a custom door might be necessary. In this situation, a trimmable door will allow you to create your own custom exterior door size to continue using the existing door jamb hassle-free—and this will likely cut costs as well.

Plastpro offers custom exterior door sizes

Plastpro’s Trimmable Door Series is a great option for many situations when you need a custom fit. The Trimmable Series is designed to be customizable to the desired width and height of your entryway. The doors in this series can be trimmed up to 1” from each composite stile, ½” from top rail, and 1 ½” from bottom rail. While you might be worried about the door’s integrity after it’s been trimmed, these doors are built with excess material so that trimming does not compromise the door’s structure, full-length lockblock, or Plastpro’s HydroShield Technology in any way. Your door will still be secure and have a fully composite exterior to prevent warping, rotting, and mold and mildew.

  

Plastpro’s Trimmable Series offers choices from our Oak Door Series and Smooth Skin Door Series with a variety of designs—from classic to contemporary—to accommodate your home’s exterior. 

To find out more about how Plastpro can assist you with custom exterior door sizes, view our Trimmable Series online and find a dealer to purchase a door near you. 

There’s a lot more to doors than what meets the eye, and it’s just as important to consider the material inside the door as the material on the outside. The door core is an essential part of the door, and different door cores offer a variety of benefits, from structural stability, to performance, to durability, to value. It’s important to choose a door core that’s right for your specific needs. 

Different door materials—like wood, fiberglass, and steel—also have different core options available. We’ll cover the most common door cores for each of these exterior door types. For a comprehensive comparison of these door materials, see our wood vs. fiberglass vs. steel doors guide.

 

Door cores for wood doors

Wood doors, one of the classic exterior door options, do not offer much variety when it comes to exterior door cores. There are two common types of cores for exterior wood doors—solid wood and solid core.

Solid Wood

Solid wood exterior doors have been the traditional choice for years as they are 100% natural wood. While these doors offer great insulation and soundproofing, and are aesthetically pleasing, they require quite a bit of proper care to ensure the door lasts. As wood is susceptible to warping, it’s important to make sure they’re being regularly maintained. 

Solid Core

Similar to solid wood, solid core wood doors offer excellent insulation and soundproofing, but are generally a more affordable option. Solid core wood doors start with a wood or veneer door skin, but inside a hollow core is left to be filled with wood composite materials. Doors with solid cores are often heavier than solid wood doors, which can provide a boost in security, but they are prone to shrinking or expanding when exposed to moisture and temperature changes, which also means extra maintenance.

There are a variety of solid core options, with particleboard cores and stave cores being the most common. Particleboard is composed of wood particles adhered together to form a solid material. It’s one of the most popular door core options for wood doors due to well-rounded performance, affordability, and availability. Stave cores feature blocks of wood—also referred to as staves—which are glued together. Stave core doors offer strength and durability, but are often lighter than particleboard.

 

Door cores for steel doors

Another popular material for exterior doors is steel. Steel is a common choice when security is a top priority, but the security and energy efficiency of a steel door is very dependent on the type of door core. There are two most common types of door cores for exterior steel doors. However, it is important to note that even with the best core, a steel door’s exterior will still be prone to dents, rust, and scratches that may necessitate a full replacement. 

Polystyrene

Polystyrene door cores (also referred to as EPS cores) are one of the most common choices for homeowners looking for benefits like added insulation. Polystyrene acts as a thermal barrier, making it a good choice for cutting down on heating costs during the winter. The insulation also helps with soundproofing. One downside—polystyrene cores are mostly drop-in cores, meaning that this core does not adhere and chemically bond to the door skin, resulting in poor structural support, and leaves gaps and air pockets between the door skins and door core. This leaves more room for damaging condensation to build up inside the door. 

Polyurethane

Polyurethane is somewhat similar to polystyrene, but it offers more quality in terms of insulation, soundproofing, and structural support to doors, making it a slightly more expensive option. Polyurethane is generally more dense and will adhere and bite onto the door skins, providing a nearly airtight fit. The quality of a polyurethane door core depends on the density, but these are typically a better choice for exterior doors when it comes to insulation, security, and soundproofing. 

 

Door cores for fiberglass doors

Fiberglass exterior doors feature the same most common cores as steel exterior doors. In addition to polyurethane, the second most common fiberglass door core is polystyrene, which offers a lower price point with good insulation. However, like steel, high-density, polyurethane foam cores maximize door performance in fiberglass exterior doors.

As mentioned earlier, polyurethane door cores come in varying density levels, meaning not all are created equal—it’s best to look for high-density options. These tightly packed cores provide superior insulation, which maximizes energy efficiency and soundproofing capabilities. Again, densely packed foam means fewer air gaps are left within the door, preventing moisture (and mold and mildew) from building up inside the door. When combined with a fiberglass skin’s durability and performance, fiberglass doors with high-density, polyurethane door cores are an excellent option.

While other fiberglass doors offer polyurethane core options, Plastpro’s high-density, polyurethane foam door core is a superior choice. Plastpro’s exterior doors are filled with CFC-free, high-density, polyurethane foam with composite material protecting it on all six sides. These door cores offer six times the insulating value as a wood door. The high-density foam also adds rigidity and structural support to the doors, making them a great choice to improve front door security. 

It should also be noted that in addition to the most common cores covered, there are other exterior door cores that serve specific functions—such as mineral cores, which are fairly common in fire-rated or soundproof doors. Other specialized doors may feature unique internal properties, so it is important to get a detailed breakdown of your door materials—door core included—to ensure the door fits your individual needs.

Check out Plastpro’s Where to Buy page to find the closest distributor for fiberglass doors. For more information on our fiberglass door offerings, visit our website.