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Doors are important for access and security in buildings. Accessories like handles and locks
add to their functionality. In this overview, we'll explore different types of doors and
accessories used in modern buildings. Let's dive into the world of Doors & Accessories, where
we find both style and practicality. Here are some examples or types of doors that are
commonly used.
Panel Doors
A panel door is arguably the most common type of wood door. This door type is crafted by
putting separate panels together, again usually made of wood, as an embellishment for a
solid piece of door.
1. One-Panel
A one- or single-panel door comprises top and bottom rails and two stiles.
While they are popular as front and side entry doors, they are also commonly
used as interior doors for rooms or house partitions, thanks to the single
panel door’s simplicity and clean lines.
2. Two-Panel
3. Three-Panel
A three-panel door has three panels separated by two stiles or rails. While
many three-panel doors have equally sized panels, some have at least one
panel that’s either shallower or wider than the other two, usually the topmost.
Other door styles, like the bifold, may also use a three-panel system.
4. Four-Panel
The four-panel design uses panels that are taller than they are wide. The top
two panels are positioned side by side above the lower two. Four-panel doors
look great when the building is bigger or wider.
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5. Five-Panel
These doors have five equally sized horizontal panels positioned one on top of
another. Its Victorian roots make five-panel doors ideal for classic bungalow
styles, such as Craftsman, Arts and Crafts, and Mission.
6. Six-Panel
Six-panel doors can have equally sized panels, with three panels lining the left
side of the door and the other three positioned right next to them. However,
some six-panel doors have four panels of equal size and two smaller panels.
7. Eight-Panel
Eight-panel doors have smaller panels than their fewer-panel cousins. Eight-
panel doors are typically big, heavy, and imposing, especially if they are made
of real hardwood. They are perfect as front doors, particularly if you prefer
the appeal of a large, old-school knocker over a modern doorbell button.
Eight-panel doors have variants that include several or all panels equipped
with glass. They come in wood, steel, and other materials. Eight-panel doors
with only two glass panels typically have those glass panels at the top. This
allows light entry while also protecting privacy, as the glass panels are often
too high for prying eyes.
9. Roman
Roman doors typically have two panels: a square one at the bottom and an
arched one at the top. Traditionally, Roman doors are pivot doors made of
stone.
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Sliding Doors
Opening and closing sliding doors are simple because they use a sliding track (either set on
the ceiling or floor). This mechanism makes them useful in tight settings and interiors that
don’t have space for a door to swing in either direction. That said, any type of sliding door will
need wall clearance since they are “tucked” into these walls when open.
10. Pocket
A pocket door hangs from the top and slides along a track, where it guides the
door into a wall where it slips into when opened. Most modern pocket doors slide
into the wall with hardly any space left on either side. This flush look provides
clean lines and takes up a lot less space.
11. Bypass
The bypass door mechanism allows one door to slide in front of the door
next to it. A bypass door can be designed with two doors or three,
depending on the width of the opening, the width of the doors, or the
owner's preferences.
12. Farm
Farm-style doors are direct descendants of barn doors. Like barn doors, they
are simple devices that consist of planks of wood (battens) laid side by side and
framed or reinforced by rails and a muntin. Some modern farm doors have a
rail-and-style arrangement. Farm doors come in varieties like battened and
ledged doors or simply just battens without a ledge.
13. Slider
Folding Doors
Folding doors are like sliding doors; these doors open along a track, but they don’t “disappear”
behind or into a wall when opened. Instead, these doors are segmented into vertical panels
that allow them to be folded (like pleats on a curtain) when opened and pushed to one side.
14. Accordion
Accordion doors are a simpler and lighter version of bifold doors. They have
narrower, thinner, and flatter panels usually made of composite wood or plastic.
You can find accordion doors in indoor areas.
Their biggest advantage is that they need little space to operate, but they’re
useful in either wide or narrow spaces. This makes them equally functional for
both room dividers and closet doors.
15. Bifold
Colonial Doors
Colonial doors are a distinctly European design that our American forefathers took with them
when they colonized the New World (hence the name). Colonial doors are largely symmetrical
and come in pairs, with one or several recessed panels framed by stiles and rails. Some panel
doors (like the ones discussed above) are sometimes even called Colonial or Colonial panels.
16. Colonial
17. Dutch
A Dutch door is horizontally divided into two parts, usually with the top part
bigger than the bottom. You might see this door in some restaurants and other
food establishments that separate the kitchen from the dining area. Dutch
doors are generally classified as swing doors. The Dutch door emphasizes
function over form since you can open either part independently of the other.
Shaker doors are so-called because of the Shakers, a colonial religious sect in
the 18th century. Their Puritan values and simplicity show in their
craftsmanship.
Most Shaker doors have a simple square indent in the middle as if there is
nothing, but a completely flat door framed with raised flat boards.
Traditionally, shaker doors used to have mortise and tenon joints, making
them stronger but heavier. Colonial Shaker doors and their subtypes are also
popular as closet doors.
The corner-V shaker door is a variant of the classic Shaker door, only that its
frame’s corners meet each other in recessed V lines.
A square Shaker is like the classic Shaker, only that the inner panel is flat and
smooth, unlike the farmhouse-style inner panel of the former. In addition, its
rails and stiles have no visible seams, even in the corners.
The V-groove Shaker features a style that is as tall as the door, reaching to
the top and bottom sides of the door itself so together they look like two
columns framing the central panel. Its rails are therefore less wide than the
width of the door and connect the two stiles at right angles, with the
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A dog leg is a variation of the V-groove Shaker, only that instead of two full-
length stiles, they are offset so that the rail can be connected below or above it.
As a result, the stiles and the rails meet at right angles, hence the “dog leg.”
However, unlike the V-groove Shaker, there is no such decoration on the dog
leg.
Louver Doors
A louver (or louver) is a set of horizontal slats angled to admit air and light, but not direct
sunlight or the other elements, like rain. A louver door is a regular door that uses these
features.
The full louver door has louvers in the middle to allow ventilation and light
penetration. In louvered doors, fixed slats are positioned downwards, one
slat overlapping the next, for privacy. Some versions of the louvered door are
also equipped with movable slats.
24. Half-Louver
As the name suggests, the half louver door is half solid and half louvered, but
in many cases, the louvered area isn’t always half the door but a fraction of it.
Examples of a half-louver door are a restroom door, a maintenance door, or a
locker door.
25. Ya Louver
YA louver doors are almost like full louver doors, except there are two
louvered sections separated by a stile or rail. The solid area is much smaller
than the louvered areas, which take up most of the door. The lower louvered
section is commonly smaller than the top louvered section.
A double louver has two louvered sections, but the louvered sections are
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often smaller than the non-louvered sections. The upper louvers are found at the top half of
the door, and the bottom louvers are almost at the foot of the door. The
louvered sections are often of the same dimensions.
The louver panel door is a door that consists of two panels—one a solid panel
and the other louvered. More decorative than the half louver door, a louver
panel door typically has the louvered portion at the top three-quarters of the
door and the raised rectangular panel in the lower half within the frame.
Door Lites
Some doors have panels that use glass instead of wood. These panels are called “lites.” These
lites emit illumination and are often frosted or decorated for privacy.
A two-panel half-lite door is so-called because it generally has two and a half
panels. One is a lite (usually the top panel), and the two half-panels are solid
wood beneath it.
Since it’s popular as an entry door thanks to its daylighting, some homeowners
frost the lite or even put a curtain or window treatment on the lite itself. Old-
school clinics usually have two-panel half-lites, with the lite characteristically
obscured
A two-panel three-quarter lite door is like a two-panel half-lite, but the lite is
much bigger, taking up three-quarters of the door (hence the name).
30. Nine-Lite
The nine-lite door is effectively a half-lite door, with the top half of the door in
a lite. But what sets them apart is that muntins divide the glass into nine
equally sized sections, creating a grid pattern. The bottom half of a nine-lite
door may or may not be decorated with paneling.
31. Fifteen-Lite
Like the nine-lite door, the fifteen-lite door has its glass broken up into equally
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sized sections (15 of them, in fact) with muntins, creating a grid pattern. What
makes it different is that while nine-lites only occupy the top half, fifteen-lites
take up a huge portion of the door, almost the entire central assembly.
A narrow lite door is a regular door with one exception: it has a narrow and
rectangular fixed lite. The lite is usually positioned right above or near the
knob or lock, and it allows you to peer outside while the door is closed. You
can find narrow lite doors in many offices, research centers, and hospitals.
A half-glass (or half-lite) door is like a two-panel half-lite, only without the solid
wood panels beneath the top lite.
A full glass (or full-lite) door takes daylighting to a whole new level, with twice
the illuminating potential as that of a half-lite door. However, because of
vulnerability and privacy concerns, most homeowners use a full glass door as a
back or side door that leads to an outdoor area, like a deck or a patio.
Vision lite doors are commonly found in areas where privacy is a concern.
They are simple doors with a hole cut into them, usually at the top half and
centered. This hole can be fitted with a small glass panel. To add security in
commercial or industrial applications, most vision lites and narrow lites use an
automatic door closer.
Different types of doors utilize glass, but a decorative window door introduces
an artistic flair that emphasizes form over function. For the homeowner who
wishes to dress up their front door while also letting in more light, a decorative
window door can be a great solution.
37. Tudor
panels, grooves, and glass panels. Most Tudors have arched tops and a
narrow lite in the middle, often embellished, that follow the general outline
of the molding or the paneling (i.e., arched tops). Tudors are traditionally
massive, thanks to their hardwood making.
The four-panel half-moon door is almost exactly like the above, only that there
is no glass; the half-moon on top of the four panels are purely for decoration,
usually carved into the wood.
Functional Doors
Functional doors are more than just entryways. While there are various types of doors for
every conceivable need, these two below are the most found in American homes.
40. French
French doors are what most people think of when they encounter
the term “patio door.” Unlike sliders, French doors are hinged
doors, which means they operate via hinges, like a casement
window. However, like slider doors, they are also commonly used
as exterior doors. Most French doors are also more elaborate
than sliders and are more appropriate with adequate swing
space. The classic Art Deco look of most French doors is a great
fit for classic-style dwellings. Mere door pictures don't give the
best-looking French doors justice.
41. Storm
A storm door is another layer of protection over your front door. True to its
name, a storm door is like armor, enabling it to resist bad weather and the
elements. Some storm doors emphasize protection, like all-steel doors and
hardwood doors, but some may use a screen panel for ventilation and light and
instead use sturdier frames for additional strength. Lighter storm doors, like
aluminum doors that cover the front door, are more decorative than functional.
Some homeowners also use a storm door to deter break-ins. These storm
doors offer additional protective features like locks or bolts.
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42. Flush
Flush doors generally fulfill two needs—reducing the weight of the door or
giving the door additional protection. To lessen weight, the core usually
employs a honeycomb structure. To reinforce the door, the core uses an
insulating material.
1. Single-Hung Window
Single-hung windows feature two sashes: a fixed one at the top and a
movable one at the bottom, allowing vertical sliding. They are ideal for areas
with limited space outside and are commonly used in new constructions,
offices, and homes. Single-hung windows are part of a category known as
"sash windows," originating from Georgian and Victorian architecture in
England.
2. Double-Hung Window
Double-hung windows are like single-hung windows, but both the top and
bottom sashes are movable, offering superior ventilation. They can be tilted
inward for cleaning and are suitable for areas requiring good airflow like
bathrooms, kitchens, and bedrooms. Double-hung windows are versatile and
can be crafted from various materials such as wood or vinyl. They have been
popular for centuries, complementing architectural styles from traditional to
contemporary.
3. Hopper Window
With a horizontal rectangular shape and sturdy construction to withstand strong winds, they're
common in small bathrooms, kitchens, and basements, enhancing ventilation. Their large
opening panels facilitate easy access and improved air circulation. The name "hopper" derives
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4. Casement Window
True to their name, center pivot windows feature sashes that pivot at the
center of the frame when opened, projecting halfway into and out of the
room. This design allows ample light and fresh air into the space. Some
modern double-hung windows have also adopted this mechanism into their
panels.
Equipped with top-operated panels, center pivot windows are easy to open
and access. Whether standing or seated, users can enjoy excellent views
with this window type.
6. Transom Window
Traditionally rectangular, modern transom windows now come in various shapes and sizes.
While they usually remain fixed, some manufacturers offer operable transom windows for
enhanced ventilation. Fanlights or lunette/half-moon windows are decorative subtypes of
transom windows, characterized by their arched shape.
7. Bay Window
Bay windows extend outward from the wall, akin to bow windows,
typically comprising three panels: two flanking units and one
central unit. Originating from Renaissance architecture, they were
often found in noble residences' great halls, opposite the room's
entrance. On a second story, they're known as oriel windows.
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Polygonal bay windows are most common, featuring multiple flanking units and a fixed central
unit. Their primary advantage lies in the additional interior space they provide, known as the
"bay," commonly used for seating or other purposes such as a cozy nook or reading area.
8. Bow Window
Bow windows, larger and wider than bay windows, typically have
an arc shape resembling a bow. They offer similar benefits to
bay windows, including additional interior space and enhanced light penetration compared to
flush wall windows. Some consider bow windows as variations of bay windows with more
window units, creating a more pronounced curve. Like bay windows, bow
windows feature a ledge inside, suitable for seating and storage.
9. Jalousie Window
Their distinct advantage lies in their ability to admit cool breezes while
shielding from rain when tilted, and they can be fully opened to enhance room ventilation,
particularly in summer. Versatile in design, they suit various architectural styles but are more
prevalent in tropical climates or buildings lacking air conditioning.
Due to their ability to balance light and privacy, glass block windows are commonly used in
areas like bathrooms. They're also suitable for spaces needing controlled illumination, such as
basements and kitchens. Modern variations come in diverse styles and dimensions, offering
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both functionality and aesthetic appeal, although some interior designers may prefer
alternative options for integrating lighting and privacy.
Adaptable to various room sizes, round windows offer customization options in color, pattern,
finish, and grille design to suit diverse architectural styles. Their unique feature lies in
establishing a focal point within a room, allowing homeowners to create specific atmospheres
in their spaces.
These windows enhance the aesthetic appeal of any building while serving as
uncovered transoms, flooding interior spaces with natural light. Unlike other
window types, radius windows can be made operable for improved ventilation
or fixed solely for light ingress. Alternatively, they can be subdivided with the
top half fixed and the bottom half operable, or vice versa.
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consist of two sashes that slide horizontally for opening. Unlike traditional horizontal slides
with only one operable sash, these windows offer enhanced accessibility and ventilation. They
are space-saving, requiring no clearance space when opened.
Modern two-panel sliders often feature double locks and weatherstripping to ensure interior
safety and protection from harsh elements. With a simple and elegant design, they
complement both classic and modern architectural styles.
Picture windows feature thin frames and expansive glass areas, offering
sweeping outdoor views akin to a large picture frame. They are not operable,
making them unsuitable for small or cramped spaces but ideal for larger
areas like living rooms and master bedrooms.
lighting.
Popular in Europe but less so in the U.S., tilt & turn windows offer exceptional versatility in
operation. Featuring a large sash with thick frames on all sides, these windows can be in three
positions: closed and locked, providing unobstructed outdoor views; open, functioning like a
door from side hinges; and tilt, resembling hoppers with bottom hinges.
This dual functionality combines casement and hopper window features in one unit, typically
operated through a unified mechanism.
French doors, also referred to as French windows, are operable units typically hinged on the
side, leading to patios, gardens, or building entrances, allowing ample
light into any room.
Characterized by their grand Renaissance-era design, Palladian windows are well-suited for
equally grand and dramatic structures. They are also known as Serlian windows or Venetian
windows.
Skylights
Skylights are architectural features installed in roofs or ceilings to introduce natural light into
interior spaces. They consist of transparent or translucent glass or plastic panels, often framed
within the roof structure. Skylights provide several benefits, including increasing daylight,
reducing reliance on artificial lighting, and enhancing the aesthetic appeal of a space. They
come in various shapes and sizes and can be fixed or operable to provide ventilation.
However, improper installation or placement can lead to issues such as heat gain, glare, and
water leakage. Overall, skylights offer a practical and visually pleasing solution to brightening
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These skylights are designed for installation on flat or low-sloped roofs. They allow natural
light to enter interior spaces, brightening them up and reducing the need for artificial lighting.
Flat roof skylights can enhance the aesthetics of a building and create an open and airy
atmosphere. They are especially useful in areas where traditional
windows may not be feasible due to limited wall space.
3. Roof Lanterns
5. Opening Skylight
can be hinged at the top, bottom, or side, depending on the design, and may include
mechanisms such as crank handles or remote-controlled motors.
Opening skylights offer the benefits of both natural light and
fresh air, promoting a healthier and more comfortable indoor
environment.
6. Sliding Skylights
Sliding skylights consist of glass panels that can be horizontally slid open or closed. They
provide flexibility in controlling the amount of light and ventilation entering a space.
Sliding skylights are useful for areas where traditional windows may not be
feasible or where space constraints prevent the installation of hinged
skylights. They offer the benefits of natural light and fresh air while allowing
for customizable airflow and access to outdoor views.
8. Sun Tubes
Sun tubes, also known as tubular skylights or solar tubes, are cylindrical
tubes installed between the roof and ceiling to capture and channel sunlight into interior
spaces. Benefits include:
• Space-efficient: Ideal for rooms without direct roof access or limited ceiling space, providing
natural light where traditional skylights may not be feasible.
• Daylight harvesting: Harvests natural light throughout the day, reducing reliance on electric
lighting and energy consumption.
• Flexible installation: Can be installed in various roof types and configurations, offering
versatility in placement and design integration.
9. Domes
• Diffused light: Dome shape disperses sunlight evenly, reducing glare and hot spots while
providing soft, diffused illumination.
References