Picking the Right Door
When selecting a salvaged door, it's important to ensure it will fit your existing opening. Start by measuring the door's width, height, and depth, then determine the door's handing. To identify whether a door is left-hand or right-hand, stand on the side where the door swings toward you. If the hinges are on the left, it is a left-hand door; if the hinges are on the right, it is a right-hand door. Knowing the correct handing helps ensure the door will operate properly within your space and can prevent unnecessary modifications during installation. Bringing measurements and photos of your existing doorway when shopping can make it easier to find the perfect salvaged door for your project.
Common Door Terms Every Homeowner Should Know
Inswing (I/S):
A door that opens inward, toward the interior of the home.
Outswing (O/S):
A door that opens outward, away from the interior of the home.
Left-Hand Door (LH):
An inswing door with hinges on the left, or an outswing door with hinges on the right. Pro Tip: Hinge placement is determined while standing outside the home, facing the door.
Right-Hand Door (RH):
An inswing door with hinges on the right, or an outswing door with hinges on the left.
Lite:
A pane of glass installed within a door.
Divided Lite:
Multiple panes of glass separated by muntins, or a single pane designed to appear as though it is divided into multiple sections.
Grille:
Decorative plastic, wood, or metal pieces applied to glass to create the appearance of divided lites.
Caming:
The metal strips used to join individual pieces of decorative or stained glass together.
Brickmould:
The trim or molding that surrounds a door or window on the exterior of a home, covering the gap between the frame and the wall.
Slab Door:
A door panel by itself, without a frame, hinges, or hardware. Slab doors are ideal when the existing frame is still in good condition.
Prehung Door:
A complete door system that includes the door slab, frame, and hinges, making it ready for installation into a prepared doorway.