Want to talk shop with contractors about door installation or repairs? Knowing the names of all the different parts of a door is essential.
Even if you’re just looking to replace an old door, understanding door anatomy will help you make informed decisions about the best options for your home.
This guide breaks down all the parts of a door, from the frame to the hardware. We’ll cover the functional components and the decorative elements, so you’ll have a thorough understanding of door construction and design.
The Door Frame: Foundation of the Entryway
The door frame is the structure that supports the door. It’s made up of several parts.
Jambs: The Vertical Supports
Jambs are the vertical pieces of the door frame. They provide structural support for the door and the place where the hinges are attached. The side jambs run along the sides of the doorway, and the head jamb is at the top.
Head Jamb: The Horizontal Top
The head jamb is the horizontal piece that sits on top of the side jambs. It completes the rectangle of the frame and gives the door something to latch against.
Sill and Threshold: The Bottom Boundary
The sill is the bottom part of the door frame and provides structural support. The threshold is a piece that protects the sill and keeps water from getting inside.
The Door Panel: Structure and Style
The door panel is the main part of the door, and it’s made up of several key components that determine its strength and appearance.
Stiles: The Vertical Edges
Stiles are the vertical boards that run up and down the full length of the door panel. They give the door its structural integrity and connect the rails.
Rails: The Horizontal Members
Rails are the horizontal boards that connect the stiles. They define the top and bottom edges of the door panel and can also be found in the middle, depending on the door’s design.
Panels: Filling the Spaces
Panels are the sections that fill the spaces between the stiles and rails. They can be made of different materials, like wood or glass (which is also called glazing). The style and material of the panels play a big part in how the door looks.
Mullions: Dividing Panels
Mullions are vertical dividers inside a door panel. They separate panes of glass or smaller panels. They add both structural support and visual appeal to the door.
Door Hardware: Functionality and Security
Door hardware is more than just decoration; it’s what makes a door functional and secure.
Hinges: Enabling Movement
Hinges are the pieces of metal that let a door swing open and closed. You’ll find different types of hinges, like barrel hinges (the basic kind), pivot hinges (which let a door swing from a single point), and concealed hinges (which you can’t see when the door is closed).
Hinges are attached to the door jamb (the frame around the door) and the door stile (the vertical edge of the door).
Lockset: Securing the Door
A lockset is all the parts that work together to secure a door. This includes the handle or knob, the latch that keeps the door closed, and the deadbolt for extra security.
Handles and Knobs: Activating the Latch
Handles and knobs are what you use to make the latch work and open the door. There are different kinds for different uses. Entry handles are for exterior doors, passage handles are for doors that don’t need to lock, and bed/bath handles are for privacy.
Latches and Deadbolts: Providing Security
A latch is a simple thing that just keeps the door closed. A deadbolt is a stronger lock that usually needs a key to open.
Strike Plates and Mortise Plates: Reinforcing Security
Strike plates are metal plates on the door frame where the latch and deadbolt go in. Mortise plates reinforce the area around the lockset to make it harder to force the door open.
Decorative and Functional Accessories
Once you’ve got the main components of your door selected and installed, you can think about adding some decorative or functional accessories.
Glazing: Adding Light and Style
Glazing refers to the glass panels in a door. Glass panels let natural light into your home while keeping it secure and insulated from the elements. Modern glazing often uses multiple layers of glass with inert gas between the layers to better insulate your home.
Sidelights and Transoms: Enhancing the Entryway
Sidelights are vertical windows that are installed on one or both sides of the door. Transoms are horizontal windows installed right above the door.
Both sidelights and transoms add architectural interest to your home and let in more natural light.
Weather-stripping and Door Sweeps: Sealing the Gaps
Weather-stripping seals the gaps around the door, which keeps out drafts and air leaks. Door sweeps attach to the bottom of the door to seal the space between the door and the threshold.
Brick Moulding and Casing: Finishing the Frame
Brick moulding covers the gap between the door frame and the outside wall of your home. Casing is decorative moulding that frames the interior side of the door.
To Conclude
We’ve covered a lot of ground in this article, taking a closer look at the essential parts of a door, including the frame, panel, hardware, and accessories. Knowing these components will help you communicate more effectively with contractors and make smarter decisions when it comes to door repair or replacement.
Remember that regular inspection and maintenance of your doors can extend their lifespan and ensure your home’s security. Check for signs of wear and tear, and address any issues promptly.
Finally, don’t stop here! Continue exploring the world of door design and construction to enhance your home’s functionality and aesthetic appeal. There’s always something new to learn, and the more you know, the better equipped you’ll be to create a home you love.